Food and music have always been an inseparable pair. Since ancient times, people have been using music to accompany their meals, from the lively folk tunes at a local tavern to the soothing background melodies in fine dining establishments. Music has the power to enhance the dining experience and create a welcoming atmosphere. It is no surprise that many musicians have found inspiration in the kitchen and have created songs that celebrate cooking and the culinary arts. From jazz and blues to pop and rock, there are countless songs about food and cooking, each with their unique take on the subject matter. This article will delve into the world of songs about cooking, exploring some of the most popular and interesting examples. From Action Bronson’s “Compliments To The Chef” to Gertrude Lawrence’s “A Cup Of Coffee, A Sandwich And You,” we’ll take a closer look at how music has celebrated the art of cooking over the years. Join us on a journey through some of the most appetizing songs in music history!
1. “Compliments To The Chef” by Action Bronson
“Compliments to the Chef” by Action Bronson is a rap song that showcases the rapper’s love for food and cooking. The song features a sample of a classic French cooking show and opens with the sound of a knife chopping vegetables. Throughout the song, Action Bronson raps about his culinary skills and his love for different types of food, including seafood, pasta, and beef. He also references his Albanian heritage and the traditional dishes he grew up with. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fun and entertaining ode to cooking and the pleasures of good food. With its playful lyrics and mouth-watering references, “Compliments to the Chef” is a must-listen for foodies and rap fans alike.
2. “Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy” by The Wiggles & Sesame Street
“Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy” by The Wiggles & Sesame Street is a children’s song that celebrates the joys of eating healthy fruits. The song features a lively and upbeat melody that is perfect for getting kids up and dancing. The lyrics are simple and easy to sing along with, making it a great educational tool for teaching children about healthy eating habits. The song lists different types of fruit, such as bananas, grapes, and apples, and encourages children to mix them all together to make a delicious fruit salad. With its fun and colorful visuals and catchy tune, “Fruit Salad Yummy Yummy” is a delightful and entertaining way to promote healthy eating to children.
3. “The Wonderful Soup Stone” by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show
“The Wonderful Soup Stone” by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show is a folksy and whimsical song that tells a tale of how a simple stone can create a delicious soup. The song features acoustic guitar and harmonica, giving it a rustic and old-fashioned feel. The lyrics describe a group of travelers who come across a hungry village and decide to make them a soup. They begin with a stone and add water, vegetables, and meat, and soon the aroma of the soup fills the air. The villagers gather around and share the delicious soup, and everyone is filled with warmth and happiness. With its charming storytelling and comforting message, “The Wonderful Soup Stone” is a heartwarming and nostalgic song that will make you feel like you’re sitting around a campfire with good friends.
4. “Sugar” by Maroon 5
“Sugar” by Maroon 5 is a catchy pop song that celebrates the thrill of falling in love. The song features a funky bassline and upbeat rhythm that will have you tapping your feet and singing along. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with lead singer Adam Levine comparing his lover to sugar and describing his cravings for her. The chorus is an infectious hook that will have you humming it for hours after listening. With its catchy melody and romantic lyrics, “Sugar” is a fun and uplifting song that captures the excitement of a new relationship. Whether you’re a fan of pop music or just looking for a feel-good tune, “Sugar” is sure to put a smile on your face.
5. “Home Cooking” by Tony Allen
“Home Cooking” by Tony Allen is a funky and upbeat song that celebrates the joys of cooking and sharing food with loved ones. The song features a groovy bassline, energetic drums, and soulful vocals that will have you dancing and singing along. The lyrics describe the pleasure of cooking meals at home, the warmth of the kitchen, and the joy of sharing food with friends and family. The chorus is catchy and repetitive, making it easy to sing along with. With its positive vibes and infectious energy, “Home Cooking” is a fun and uplifting song that will put you in a good mood and inspire you to get in the kitchen and cook up something delicious.
6. “Diced Pineapples” by Rick Ross
“Diced Pineapples” by Rick Ross is a sensual and romantic song that explores the intense feelings of desire and attraction between two lovers. The song features a slow and sultry beat, with Rick Ross’s deep voice adding a sense of intensity to the lyrics. The chorus is a repetition of the phrase “Diced pineapples, smoking weed with you,” which creates a dreamy and relaxed atmosphere. The lyrics describe the physical attraction between two people and the pleasure they find in each other’s company. With its seductive melody and intimate lyrics, “Diced Pineapples” is a steamy and passionate song that captures the intense feelings of being in love.
7. “Savoy Truffle” by The Beatles
“Savoy Truffle” by The Beatles is a playful and upbeat song that features a combination of catchy guitar riffs, brass instruments, and a lively melody. The lyrics are whimsical and quirky, telling the story of a man who has a weakness for sweets, particularly the Savoy truffle. The chorus is a repetition of the phrase “You know that what you eat, you are,” which is a reference to the idea that you are what you consume. The song’s catchy melody and clever lyrics make it a fun and enjoyable tune to listen to. With its cheerful rhythm and witty wordplay, “Savoy Truffle” is a classic Beatles song that is sure to put a smile on your face.
8. “Pound Cake” by Drake
“Pound Cake” by Drake is a rap song that features a sample of jazz musician Jimmy Smith’s “Jimmy Smith Rap” and a guest appearance from rapper Jay-Z. The song’s beat is slow and laid-back, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, with Drake and Jay-Z reflecting on their success and the challenges they have faced along the way. The chorus is a repetition of the phrase “Cake, cake, cake,” which is a metaphor for the wealth and success they have achieved. The song’s smooth flow and poignant lyrics make it a compelling and thought-provoking track. With its understated beats and insightful lyrics, “Pound Cake” is a standout track on Drake’s album “Nothing Was the Same.”
9. “Cooking in the Kitchen” by Bounce Patrol
“Cooking in the Kitchen” by Bounce Patrol is a fun and upbeat children’s song that encourages kids to get involved in cooking and helps them learn basic kitchen skills. The song’s melody is catchy and lively, with a simple and repetitive chorus that is easy for children to sing along to. The lyrics are playful and educational, teaching kids about the different foods and ingredients that go into making a meal. The song’s colorful and vibrant music video features the Bounce Patrol band members singing and dancing in a whimsical kitchen set, making the song even more engaging for kids. With its upbeat melody and positive message, “Cooking in the Kitchen” is a perfect song for parents to share with their young children.
10. “Making Pies” by Patty Griffin
“Making Pies” by Patty Griffin is a haunting and beautiful folk song that tells the story of a woman’s life through the metaphor of pie-making. The song’s slow and melancholic melody is accompanied by Griffin’s haunting vocals, which perfectly capture the bittersweet and nostalgic mood of the lyrics. The lyrics themselves are poetic and introspective, painting a vivid picture of the woman’s life and the memories and emotions that are tied to each pie she bakes. The song’s sparse instrumentation, consisting of just acoustic guitar and piano, adds to its raw and emotional impact. “Making Pies” is a poignant and affecting song that showcases Patty Griffin’s talent as both a singer and songwriter.
11. “Custard Pie” by Led Zeppelin
“Custard Pie” by Led Zeppelin is a hard-hitting rock song with a driving rhythm and bluesy guitar riff. The song’s lyrics are sexually charged and full of innuendo, with references to baking and cooking used as metaphors for sex. Robert Plant’s powerful vocals and Jimmy Page’s searing guitar solos add to the song’s raw energy and intensity. The song’s hard-hitting beat and catchy guitar riff make it a classic example of Led Zeppelin’s signature style of hard rock. “Custard Pie” is a song that perfectly captures the raw and unbridled energy of Led Zeppelin at their peak and remains a beloved classic of the rock genre.
12. “Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones
“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock song with a catchy guitar riff and infectious rhythm. The song’s lyrics are provocative and controversial, exploring themes of interracial relationships and sexual desire. Mick Jagger’s vocals are full of energy and attitude, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of the song. The song’s rock and roll instrumentation, including Keith Richards’ signature guitar playing and Charlie Watts’ steady drumming, make it a timeless classic of the genre. “Brown Sugar” is a song that showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to push boundaries and challenge societal norms while still creating music that is fun and enjoyable to listen to.
13. “Toast” by Street Band
“Toast” by Street Band is a disco-infused dance song with an infectious beat and catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of life, such as good food and good company. The funky bassline and groovy rhythm guitar create a danceable backdrop for the soulful vocals and uplifting lyrics. “Toast” is a feel-good song that encourages listeners to let go and enjoy life’s little moments. Its upbeat tempo and positive message make it a popular choice for dance parties and social gatherings. “Toast” is a song that reminds us to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and to live in the moment.
14. “Cooking By The Book” by Lazy Town
“Cooking by the Book” by Lazy Town is a fun and upbeat song that combines catchy pop melodies with a playful cooking theme. The song features a mixture of rap verses and sung choruses, with a playful call-and-response structure that encourages audience participation. The lyrics revolve around cooking and baking, with references to mixing, measuring, and following recipes. The song’s lively beat and infectious hook make it a popular choice for children’s dance parties and cooking-themed events. “Cooking by the Book” is a fun and catchy song that inspires listeners to get creative in the kitchen and have fun while cooking.
15. “Song of a Baker” by Small Faces
“Song of a Baker” by Small Faces is a classic rock song that tells the story of a baker who takes pride in his work and creates delicious baked goods for his customers. The song features a driving rock rhythm and a catchy guitar riff that runs throughout the track. The lyrics celebrate the value of hard work and craftsmanship, with the baker representing the blue-collar worker who takes pride in his job. The chorus encourages listeners to “sing a song of a baker” and appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into creating something delicious. “Song of a Baker” is a timeless rock anthem that celebrates the value of hard work and pride in one’s craft.
16. “Cookin’ Up Something Good” by Mac Demarco
“Cookin’ Up Something Good” by Mac Demarco is a laid-back indie rock song with a catchy melody and a nostalgic, retro vibe. The lyrics describe a young man who spends his days in the kitchen, cooking up various dishes and experimenting with new recipes. The song has a lighthearted, carefree feel that reflects the protagonist’s enjoyment of his hobby, and the chorus encourages listeners to “come on over for dinner” and share in the joy of cooking and creating together. “Cookin’ Up Something Good” is a charming and whimsical ode to the pleasures of cooking, and captures the joy and camaraderie that can be found in sharing food and creativity with others.
17. “Cake By The Ocean” by DNCE
“Cake By The Ocean” by DNCE is a lively pop rock song with a catchy chorus and infectious beat. The lyrics describe a party on the beach where the guests are drinking “cake by the ocean” and dancing in the sand. The song’s title is a euphemism for sex, and the lyrics playfully suggest that the partygoers are enjoying a carefree, wild time together. “Cake By The Ocean” has a fun and upbeat feel that encourages listeners to let loose and have a good time, and the high-energy instrumentation and sing-along chorus make it a popular choice for parties and dance floors.
18. “The Blacker The Berry” by Kendrick Lamar
“The Blacker The Berry” by Kendrick Lamar is a powerful hip-hop song that addresses themes of race, identity, and systemic racism in America. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, with Lamar reflecting on his own experiences as a black man in a society that often devalues and marginalizes black lives. The song’s title references the phrase “the blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice,” which Lamar subverts to argue that blackness is not something to be fetishized or commodified, but rather a source of strength and resilience in the face of oppression. The track features an intense beat and Lamar’s sharp, forceful delivery, creating a sense of urgency and defiance that reflects the song’s message of black pride and resistance.
19. “Stir Fry” by Migos
“Stir Fry” by Migos is a catchy hip-hop song that features heavy bass and trap beats. The song’s title and chorus refer to cooking food in a wok, while the verses focus on the Migos’ success, wealth, and extravagant lifestyle. The lyrics are packed with clever wordplay and metaphors, and the trio’s unique vocal delivery and flow add to the song’s energetic and playful vibe. “Stir Fry” was produced by Pharrell Williams and released in 2017 as part of Migos’ album “Culture II,” and it became a hit on the charts and in clubs and parties around the world.
20. “A Cup Of Coffee, A Sandwich And You” by Gertrude Lawrence
“A Cup of Coffee, a Sandwich and You” is a romantic song originally written in 1925 by Al Dubin, Billy Rose, and Joseph Meyer. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Gertrude Lawrence, who popularized the song in the 1925 Broadway musical “Hold Everything!” In the song, the singer expresses their love for a special someone, saying that a simple meal with them is all they need to be happy. The melody is light and cheerful, with a catchy chorus that makes it a perfect sing-along tune. The song has remained a classic example of romantic jazz standards for almost a century.
April Johnson 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.
