When the temperatures rise and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a scoop of ice cream. It’s the perfect treat to cool you down and lift your spirits. And what better way to celebrate this beloved dessert than with a playlist of the best songs about ice cream? From classic hits to modern tunes, these songs capture the joy and delight that come with indulging in a cone or bowl of ice cream. Whether you prefer a traditional flavor like vanilla or something more unique like cookie dough, there’s a song on this list for every ice cream lover. So sit back, grab a spoon, and let these sweet melodies transport you to a world of creamy goodness. These 12 songs will not only keep you cool, but they’ll also make you crave a scoop (or two) of your favorite ice cream flavor.
1.‘Ice Cream Man’ by Van Halen
“Ice Cream Man” is a classic rock song by Van Halen that features on their debut album released in 1978. The song tells the story of a man selling ice cream on the streets, but it quickly becomes clear that he’s not just selling frozen treats. The lyrics suggest that the ice cream man is also a bit of a ladies’ man, using his job to pick up women. The song has a catchy guitar riff and a bluesy feel, and David Lee Roth’s vocals are full of character and swagger. Overall, “Ice Cream Man” is a fun, tongue-in-cheek track that showcases Van Halen’s distinctive sound and style.
2.‘Ice Cream Van’ by Glasvegas
“Ice Cream Van” is a melancholic indie rock song by the Scottish band Glasvegas. Released in 2008, it features on their self-titled debut album. The song’s lyrics depict the bleak reality of life in a poverty-stricken neighborhood where the only joyful moment is the sound of the ice cream van driving by. However, the song’s haunting melody and atmospheric soundscapes create an unsettling feeling that contrasts with the sweet image of ice cream. The lead singer’s raw, emotional vocals add to the song’s rawness and emotional depth. “Ice Cream Van” is a poignant commentary on the harshness of life and the simple pleasures that can offer brief respite.
3.‘Ice Cream Girl’ by Lloyd Cole
“Ice Cream Girl” is a dreamy, jangly pop song by English singer-songwriter Lloyd Cole. Released in 1988 as a single, it appears on his second solo album “Mainstream.” The song’s lyrics describe a chance encounter with a girl who works in an ice cream shop, and the narrator’s longing for her as he watches her walk away. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and cheerful instrumentation create a sense of joy and playfulness, which contrasts with the narrator’s pining for someone he may never see again. Overall, “Ice Cream Girl” is a charming, bittersweet love song that showcases Cole’s unique songwriting style.
4.‘Ice Cream Man’ by Tom Waits
“Ice Cream Man” is a bluesy, gritty song by Tom Waits, released in 1973 on his debut album “Closing Time”. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of an ice cream man driving through the streets, with Waits’ distinctive gravelly voice adding to the song’s rough-edged charm. The lyrics contain elements of nostalgia and childhood innocence, but there is also an underlying sense of danger and unpredictability, as the ice cream man is described as having a “silver pistol on his hip.” The song’s slow, deliberate tempo and the hauntingly beautiful melody make it a standout track on the album, and a classic in Waits’ discography.
5.‘Ice Cream’ by New Young Pony Club
“Ice Cream” is an electro-pop dance anthem by British band New Young Pony Club, released in 2006 as a single and included on their debut album “Fantastic Playroom”. The song’s infectious beat and driving bassline are accompanied by the lead singer’s sultry vocals, which express the playful and flirtatious nature of the lyrics. The catchy chorus and memorable synth hook make the song instantly recognizable and highly danceable, which led to its widespread success in clubs and on the radio. Overall, “Ice Cream” is a fun and upbeat song that captures the energy and excitement of the indie dance scene of the mid-2000s.
6.‘Ice Cream Man’ by Blur
“Ice Cream Man” is a dreamy, psychedelic pop song by English alternative rock band Blur, featured on their 1999 album “13”. The song’s lyrics are a surreal and vivid stream-of-consciousness narrative, which describe a hallucinatory encounter with an ice cream man who may or may not be a figment of the narrator’s imagination. The song’s hazy, distorted guitars, and Damon Albarn’s ethereal vocals create a dreamlike atmosphere, which evokes the disorienting and otherworldly experience described in the lyrics. Overall, “Ice Cream Man” is a uniquely creative and imaginative song that showcases Blur’s experimental approach to songwriting and production.
7.‘Banana Split For My Baby’ by Louis Prima
“Banana Split For My Baby” is a lively, humorous song by American singer and bandleader Louis Prima, released in 1957. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man trying to impress his date by taking her to a fancy restaurant and ordering a decadent dessert, a banana split. The song’s upbeat swing rhythm, jaunty horns, and catchy melody capture the exuberance and fun of the 1950s swing and big band era. Prima’s playful and energetic vocals, along with the song’s witty lyrics, make it a classic example of his signature style of jazz-infused, party music that continues to entertain audiences today.
8.‘Ice Cream Party’ by Modest Mouse
“Ice Cream Party” is a high-energy, punk-infused indie rock song by American band Modest Mouse, released in 1998 on their debut album “This Is a Long Drive for Someone with Nothing to Think About”. The song’s lyrics are a tongue-in-cheek ode to the joy of indulging in ice cream, with references to different flavors and toppings. The song’s fast-paced, frenzied instrumentation and Isaac Brock’s raw, emotive vocals capture the excitement and exuberance of a carefree, ice cream-filled party. Overall, “Ice Cream Party” is a fun and playful song that showcases Modest Mouse’s energetic, quirky style and irreverent approach to songwriting.
9.‘Ice Cream’ by The Wombats
“Ice Cream” is an upbeat, indie-pop song by the English band The Wombats, released in 2018 as a single. The song’s lyrics are a playful and flirty ode to the thrill of falling in love, with comparisons made to various flavors and textures of ice cream. The song’s lively beat, bright synths, and catchy guitar riffs create a carefree and summery vibe, while the lead singer’s smooth, melodic vocals add to the song’s charming and infectious nature. Overall, “Ice Cream” is a fun and catchy love song that perfectly captures the excitement and thrill of a new romantic connection.
10.‘La Dolly Vita’ by Smashing Pumpkins
“La Dolly Vita” is a brooding, alternative rock song by American band Smashing Pumpkins, featured on their 1993 album “Siamese Dream”. The song’s lyrics are cryptic and dreamlike, with references to death and loss. The hauntingly beautiful melody, distorted guitars, and Billy Corgan’s intense, emotional vocals create an eerie and melancholic atmosphere, which perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The song’s title is a play on the name of French courtesan and actress Dolly Varden, and the song’s themes reflect the darker, more introspective side of the band’s songwriting. Overall, “La Dolly Vita” is a haunting and introspective song that showcases Smashing Pumpkins’ unique and powerful sound.
11.‘Ice Cream’ by Sarah McLachlan
“Ice Cream” is a sweet and tender love song by Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan, released in 1993 on her album “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy”. The song’s lyrics use ice cream as a metaphor for the simple pleasures of life, and express a deep longing for emotional connection and intimacy. McLachlan’s gentle, soothing vocals and the song’s acoustic instrumentation create a warm and intimate atmosphere, which perfectly complements the romantic and sentimental nature of the lyrics. Overall, “Ice Cream” is a beautiful and heartfelt love song that showcases McLachlan’s exquisite voice and her ability to craft emotionally resonant songs.
12.‘Ice Cream Cakes’ by Jeff Beck Group
“Ice Cream Cakes” is a lively and energetic rock song by the Jeff Beck Group, released in 1969 on their album “Beck-Ola”. The song’s instrumentation features a driving rhythm section, powerful guitar riffs, and soulful organ fills, creating a propulsive and upbeat sound. The song’s lyrics are playful and whimsical, describing the joy of indulging in sweet treats like ice cream cakes. Lead vocalist Rod Stewart’s soulful and dynamic vocals add to the song’s infectious energy, making “Ice Cream Cakes” a classic example of the Jeff Beck Group’s electrifying sound and signature style. Overall, “Ice Cream Cakes” is a fun and high-energy rock song that showcases the band’s musical virtuosity and their ability to craft memorable and engaging songs.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
