Music has the power to evoke emotions, memories and tell stories in a way that nothing else can. It’s not surprising then, that countless songs have been written about people, real or fictional, and the impact they have had on the world. One such person is Joe. Over the years, many musicians have penned songs about Joe, showcasing his influence, his personality, and his impact on their lives. Whether it’s a tribute to his heroism, a celebration of his life, or a reflection on his legacy, these songs offer a glimpse into the many facets of Joe. In this article, we’ll take a look at 15 of the top songs about Joe, from various genres and decades. These tracks showcase the creative diversity of the artists and the depth of their emotions, and are sure to provide an insightful and entertaining musical journey for all those interested in Joe. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering Joe for the first time, this list of top 15 songs is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating and influential figure.
1. “Hey Joe” by Wilson Pickett
“Hey Joe” by Wilson Pickett is a classic soul and R&B track that has been covered by numerous artists since its release. The song tells the story of a man named Joe who is on the run after shooting his woman and heading to Mexico. Pickett’s powerful voice adds emotion to the lyrics, giving the listener a glimpse into the mind of the protagonist. The song features a driving beat with horns, piano, and guitar accents, creating a soulful, upbeat energy. It’s a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for generations and will continue to be a favorite for years to come.
2. “Joe The Lion” by David Bowie
“Joe the Lion” is a song by the legendary British musician David Bowie, released as part of his 1977 album “Heroes”. The song is characterized by its haunting and atmospheric instrumentals, with a mix of jagged, sparse guitar lines and brooding synth textures creating a sense of unease and tension. Bowie’s distinctive voice is front and center, delivering enigmatic and introspective lyrics that paint a picture of a person struggling to find their place in the world and make sense of the chaos that surrounds them. The track is punctuated by abrupt shifts in mood and volume, with moments of quiet introspection giving way to explosive, cacophonous outbursts. Despite its intense, experimental nature, “Joe the Lion” remains a captivating and memorable song that showcases Bowie’s unique artistic vision and his ability to push the boundaries of popular music.
3. “Cotton Eye Joe” by Rednex
“Cotton Eye Joe” is a folk-dance song that was popularized by Swedish group Rednex in the mid-1990s. The upbeat tune features lively fiddle playing, rhythmic acoustic guitar strums, and a catchy, sing-along chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a man named Cotton Eye Joe, who is described as a roving troublemaker who always seems to be on the move. Despite his mischievous reputation, people can’t help but dance and have a good time whenever he comes to town. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat energy make it a perfect choice for parties, line dancing, and other social events. With its playful, infectious spirit and upbeat, folksy sound, “Cotton Eye Joe” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
4. “Hank and Joe and Me” by Johnny Cash
“Hank and Joe and Me” is a song by legendary country music icon Johnny Cash. The track features Cash’s signature deep, distinctive voice and mournful acoustic guitar playing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who reflects on his life and the people he’s known, including two friends named Hank and Joe. The song is a nostalgic and contemplative meditation on friendship, mortality, and the passage of time. Cash’s powerful, emotional delivery imbues the song with a sense of introspection and sadness, making it a poignant and thought-provoking listening experience. With its timeless themes and Cash’s iconic performance, “Hank and Joe and Me” is a standout track in the artist’s extensive body of work and a true classic of the country music genre.
5. “Joe’s Turkey” by Fatlip
“Joe’s Turkey” is a funky and upbeat hip-hop track by Fatlip, known for his distinctive and quirky style. The song features a jazzy and soulful beat, backed by a groovy bassline and smooth piano riffs. Fatlip’s rapping style is playful and lighthearted, delivering clever and humorous lyrics that paint a picture of a man named Joe and his legendary turkey dish. The chorus is catchy and energetic, with Fatlip singing in a soulful voice about the glory of Joe’s turkey. Overall, “Joe’s Turkey” is a fun and entertaining track that showcases Fatlip’s unique style and musical talent. With its energetic instrumentals, charming lyrics, and infectious rhythm, this song is sure to get stuck in your head and have you tapping your feet along to the beat.
6. “Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe” by Tony Bennett
“Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe” is a classic ballad performed by the legendary Tony Bennett. The song is a slow and lush tribute to the joy and happiness that comes from loving someone. Bennett’s signature smooth and rich vocals are the centerpiece of the song, backed by a simple and elegant arrangement of strings and piano. The lyrics express the idea that happiness is a feeling that one person can bring to another’s life, and that true happiness is found in the simple things, like being with the one you love. Bennett’s performance is heartfelt and emotional, delivering the lyrics with a sincerity and tenderness that is both touching and beautiful. Overall, “Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe” is a beautiful and timeless love song that showcases Tony Bennett’s talent as one of the greatest crooners of all time. With its sweet sentiment and lush instrumentals, this song is sure to warm the hearts of anyone who listens.
7. “Poppa Joe” by The Sweet
“Poppa Joe” is a upbeat and catchy rock and roll track by The Sweet. The song features a driving beat and energetic guitar riffs, backed by a pulsing bassline and driving drums. The vocals are high-pitched and playful, delivering lyrics about a man named Poppa Joe who is loved and respected by all who know him. The chorus is catchy and upbeat, with The Sweet singing in harmony about the joy and happiness that Poppa Joe brings to their lives. Overall, “Poppa Joe” is a fun and energetic rock and roll track that showcases The Sweet’s musical talent and unique style. With its driving beat and catchy melody, this song is sure to get stuck in your head and have you tapping your feet along to the beat. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or just looking for a good time, “Poppa Joe” is a song that is sure to deliver.
8. “Joe Kirby Blues” by John Fahey
“Joe Kirby Blues” is a bluesy instrumental piece by the legendary guitarist John Fahey. The song is a slow and haunting meditation on the traditional blues form, featuring Fahey’s fingerpicking guitar style that showcases his virtuosity and musicality. The arrangement is simple, with just Fahey’s acoustic guitar front and center, but the playing is nothing short of masterful. Fahey’s style is characterized by his use of alternate tunings, which gives the song a unique and atmospheric quality. The melody is mournful and introspective, exploring the deep emotions that are at the heart of the blues. Overall, “Joe Kirby Blues” is a beautiful and powerful piece of music that showcases John Fahey’s exceptional guitar playing and deep understanding of the blues. Whether you’re a fan of the blues or simply appreciate great guitar playing, “Joe Kirby Blues” is a song that is sure to move you.
9. “Old Joe” by The Guess Who
“Old Joe” is a lively and upbeat rock and roll track by The Guess Who. The song features a driving beat and energizing guitar riffs, backed by a pulsing bassline and pounding drums. The vocals are high-pitched and passionate, delivering lyrics about a man named Old Joe who is a free spirit and a rebel at heart. The chorus is catchy and upbeat, with The Guess Who singing in harmony about the joy and excitement that Old Joe brings to their lives. Overall, “Old Joe” is a fun and energetic rock and roll track that showcases The Guess Who’s musical talent and unique style. With its driving beat and catchy melody, this song is sure to get stuck in your head and have you tapping your feet along to the beat. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or just looking for a good time, “Old Joe” is a song that is sure to deliver.
10. “Darryl And Joe” by Run-D.M.C.
“Darryl and Joe” is a hard-hitting and energetic hip-hop track by the legendary rap group Run-D.M.C. The song features a heavy beat and pulsing bassline, backed by samples of horns and keyboards that create a lively and exciting atmosphere. The rapping style of Run-D.M.C is forceful and confident, delivering lyrics that tell the story of two friends named Darryl and Joe who are overcoming obstacles and succeeding in life. The chorus is anthemic and celebratory, with Run-D.M.C singing in harmony about the strength and perseverance of Darryl and Joe. Overall, “Darryl and Joe” is a powerful and inspiring hip-hop track that showcases the musical talent and unique style of Run-D.M.C. With its heavy beat and uplifting message, this song is sure to get you pumped up and motivated to tackle whatever challenges come your way.
11. “Say It Ain’t So Joe” By Murray Head
“Say It Ain’t So Joe” is a soulful and emotional ballad by Murray Head. The song features a lush and orchestral arrangement, with strings, horns, and keyboard textures building a warm and tender atmosphere. Murray Head’s voice is rich and powerful, delivering the lyrics with a sense of heartbreak and loss. The song is a plea to a man named Joe, asking him to deny the rumors and to say that it isn’t so. The chorus is bittersweet and melancholic, with Murray Head’s voice rising in a passionate crescendo as he sings “Say it ain’t so Joe, say it ain’t so.” Overall, “Say It Ain’t So Joe” is a beautifully crafted ballad that showcases Murray Head’s exceptional vocal talent and powerful songwriting. Whether you’re a fan of soulful ballads or simply appreciate great music, “Say It Ain’t So Joe” is a song that is sure to move you.
12. “Walk away Joe” by Trisha Yearwood
“Walk Away Joe” is a heartfelt country ballad by Trisha Yearwood. The song features a simple and elegant acoustic guitar arrangement, backed by a tender steel guitar and a steady beat. Trisha Yearwood’s voice is rich and soulful, delivering the lyrics with a sense of sadness and regret. The song tells the story of a woman who is begging a man named Joe to stay with her and not to walk away. The chorus is powerful and emotional, with Trisha Yearwood’s voice rising in a heartfelt plea as she sings “Walk away Joe, don’t you know that you’re breaking my heart.” Overall, “Walk Away Joe” is a beautifully crafted country ballad that showcases Trisha Yearwood’s exceptional vocal talent and powerful songwriting. Whether you’re a fan of country music or simply appreciate great music, “Walk Away Joe” is a song that is sure to touch your heart.
13. “Sleepy Joe” by Smog
“Sleepy Joe” is a slow and atmospheric folk-rock song by Smog. The song features a sparse and stripped-down arrangement, with fingerpicked acoustic guitar and subtle keyboard textures creating a dreamy and introspective atmosphere. The vocal delivery of Smog is low and relaxed, almost spoken-word in style, as he sings the lyrics in a sleepy and trance-like manner. The song is a nostalgic reflection on a man named Joe, who is described as being a bit of a dreamer and always taking life at his own pace. The chorus is haunting and melancholic, with Smog’s voice rising in a mournful refrain as he sings “Sleepy Joe, you’re all right.” Overall, “Sleepy Joe” is a beautifully crafted folk-rock song that showcases Smog’s exceptional musical talent and introspective songwriting. Whether you’re a fan of atmospheric folk-rock or simply appreciate great music, “Sleepy Joe” is a song that is sure to captivate you with its moody and introspective atmosphere.
14. “I Had A Dream, Joe” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
“I Had A Dream, Joe” is a powerful and emotional song by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. The song features a brooding and dark musical arrangement, with driving drums, haunting piano, and atmospheric textures building a tense and dramatic atmosphere. Nick Cave’s voice is dramatic and intense, delivering the lyrics with a sense of urgency and raw emotion. The song is a bitter reflection on a man named Joe, who the narrator had a dream about. The chorus is haunting and intense, with Nick Cave’s voice rising in a desperate refrain as he sings “I had a dream, Joe, and you were there.” Overall, “I Had A Dream, Joe” is a beautifully crafted song that showcases Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ exceptional musical talent and powerful songwriting. Whether you’re a fan of dark and brooding music or simply appreciate great music, “I Had A Dream, Joe” is a song that is sure to move you with its intense and emotional atmosphere.
15. “Viva Bobby Joe” by The Equals
“Viva Bobby Joe” is a upbeat and energetic rock and roll song by The Equals. The song features a high-energy rhythm section, with driving drums and bold basslines, as well as lively guitar riffs and catchy keyboard hooks. The vocal delivery of The Equals is lively and exuberant, with a soulful and energetic delivery that perfectly captures the song’s upbeat and celebratory spirit. The song is a tribute to a man named Bobby Joe, who is described as being the life of the party and always making everyone smile. The chorus is upbeat and joyful, with The Equals’ voices rising in a celebratory refrain as they sing “Viva Bobby Joe.” Overall, “Viva Bobby Joe” is a fun and energetic rock and roll song that showcases The Equals’ exceptional musical talent and upbeat songwriting. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock and roll or simply appreciate great music, “Viva Bobby Joe” is a song that is sure to put a smile on your face and get you dancing.
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.
