Randy Newman is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter and composer known for his unique blend of wit, satire, and social commentary in his music. His career has spanned over five decades, and he has been nominated for numerous awards, including twenty Academy Awards and six Grammys. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 10 best Randy Newman songs of all time, showcasing his musical prowess and lyricism. Newman’s music often touches on themes of politics, American culture, and human relationships, making his work both insightful and thought-provoking. He is famous for his ironic and often dark humor, which is expertly woven into his lyrics and melodies. The songs on this list represent some of the best of his career, and they showcase his versatility as an artist, as well as his ability to evoke strong emotions in his listeners. Whether it’s his satirical commentary on society or his poignant ballads about love and heartbreak, Newman’s music has had a profound impact on the music industry, and his legacy continues to influence generations of musicians today.
1. She Choose Me
“She Chose Me” is a track from Randy Newman’s 2017 album “Dark Matter.” The song features Newman’s signature combination of satirical lyrics and piano-based melodies. In “She Chose Me,” Newman tells the story of a man who is surprised to find himself in a relationship with a beautiful and successful woman. The lyrics are both humorous and poignant, with Newman juxtaposing the man’s disbelief at his good fortune with his own insecurities and doubts. Musically, the song is relatively simple, with Newman’s piano and vocals taking center stage, but the melody is catchy and memorable. “She Chose Me” showcases Newman’s songwriting skills, as he manages to craft a compelling narrative in just a few verses and a chorus. Despite its lighthearted tone, the song touches on universal themes of love, self-doubt, and acceptance.
2. Mama Told Me Not To Come
“Mama Told Me Not To Come” is a popular rock song by Randy Newman. It was originally recorded and released by Eric Burdon and The Animals in 1966, but it became a hit in 1970 when Three Dog Night recorded their own version. The song features Newman’s signature wit and satire as he describes a wild party with drugs and alcohol, and the chorus repeating the words of the protagonist’s mother warning him about the dangers of such a lifestyle. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics struck a chord with audiences and became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the time.
3. I Love L.A.
“I Love L.A.” is a 1983 song by Randy Newman that celebrates the city of Los Angeles in a satirical manner. The song has a lively and upbeat tune, featuring Newman’s signature style of combining catchy melodies with humorous lyrics. The song highlights various aspects of Los Angeles culture, including its weather, landmarks, sports teams, and lifestyles. Newman’s sarcastic tone and clever lyrics poke fun at the city’s materialism, traffic, and superficiality, while also expressing genuine affection for the city’s unique character. “I Love L.A.” has been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, and has become an anthem for many Angelenos. The song was included in Newman’s album “Trouble in Paradise” and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1984.
4. Feels Like Home
“Feels Like Home” is a ballad written by Randy Newman and originally recorded for his album “Bad Love” in 1999. The song has since been covered by various artists and featured in multiple films, including the romantic comedy “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” It is a heartfelt love song that expresses a deep sense of comfort and belonging when with a loved one. Newman’s tender vocals and simple yet poignant lyrics create a sense of warmth and intimacy, making the listener feel as though they are being invited into a private moment of affection. The song has been praised for its emotional resonance and has become a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
5. You Got A Friend In Me
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me” is a classic Randy Newman song, best known as the theme song for the beloved Pixar movie “Toy Story.” The song features a charming and upbeat melody with Newman’s distinctive voice and playful piano accompaniment. The lyrics speak to the enduring friendship between Woody and Buzz Lightyear, reminding listeners of the importance of having someone who will always be there for them. With its catchy tune and heartfelt message, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” has become a beloved children’s song and a favorite among Disney and Pixar fans of all ages.
6. Sail Away
“Sail Away” is a song by Randy Newman that was released in 1972. It is a satirical song that touches on the theme of slavery and how it was marketed to Africans in the United States. The song has a mellow, easy-going rhythm and features Newman’s signature witty lyrics. The song’s narrator is a slave trader who is trying to convince Africans to come with him to America, where they will supposedly find a land of milk and honey. The song is known for its controversial subject matter and its catchy chorus, which is sung from the point of view of the slave trader. Despite the song’s dark theme, its upbeat melody and Newman’s tongue-in-cheek delivery make it a memorable and enjoyable listen. “Sail Away” is considered one of Newman’s most iconic songs and is often regarded as a classic of American popular music.
7. Louisiana 1927
“Louisiana 1927” is a poignant and socially conscious song by Randy Newman that describes the aftermath of the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927. The song features Newman’s distinctive piano and vocals, with a haunting melody that perfectly captures the somber mood of the lyrics. The song’s opening lines, “What has happened down here is the wind have changed / Clouds roll in from the north and it started to rain,” immediately sets the tone for a tale of devastation and loss. Newman’s lyrics describe the flood waters rising, people being forced to leave their homes, and the government’s failure to provide adequate aid. Despite its grim subject matter, “Louisiana 1927” is a powerful and moving tribute to the resilience of the people of Louisiana in the face of adversity. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Aaron Neville and Emmylou Harris, and has become a beloved anthem for the people of Louisiana.
8. A Few Words in Defense of Our Country
“A Few Words in Defense of Our Country” is a satirical political song written by Randy Newman that discusses the state of America in the post-9/11 world. With witty lyrics and a catchy melody, Newman humorously comments on various political issues such as the Iraq War, George W. Bush’s presidency, and the state of the media. The song was released in 2007 and received critical acclaim for its sharp and incisive commentary. Despite its humorous tone, “A Few Words in Defense of Our Country” provides a biting critique of American politics and culture, and has been described as a powerful statement on the state of the nation. It showcases Newman’s signature style of blending clever lyrics with catchy melodies to create a unique and unforgettable listening experience.
9. It’s Money That Matters
“It’s Money That Matters” is a satirical take on the idea of wealth and its importance in society. Randy Newman uses his signature style of witty lyrics and catchy melody to poke fun at the notion that money is everything, even when it comes to love and relationships. The song features a groovy piano melody and a steady beat, making it easy to sing along to. With lines like “Money can’t buy you love, but it can buy you a boat big enough to sail right up to it,” Newman provides a humorous commentary on how society often puts a higher value on material possessions than on human connection. Despite the song’s playful tone, there is an underlying message about the dangers of greed and how it can corrupt individuals and society as a whole. Overall, “It’s Money That Matters” is a witty and thought-provoking song that showcases Randy Newman’s unique blend of musical talent and social commentary.
10. Short People
“Short People” is a satirical and controversial song by Randy Newman, released in 1977. The lyrics mock prejudice against people who are shorter than average, while the melody and arrangement are cheerful and catchy. Despite its humorous tone, the song sparked debate and criticism for its perceived insensitivity towards a marginalized group. However, others argue that the song is actually a clever critique of prejudice and discrimination, using humor and irony to expose the absurdity of bigotry. The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. It remains one of Newman’s most well-known and recognizable songs, and continues to stir debate and discussion about its message and meaning.
Erica Henderson 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.
