Do you ever crave a soothing cup of tea to relax and unwind?
Whether for a moment of solace amid a hectic day or simply enjoying the warmth and comfort that comes with each sip, tea has been cherished by many cultures for centuries.
But did you know that tea has also inspired numerous songs throughout history besides being a delicious beverage?
That’s right – whole collections are dedicated solely to this fragrant drink.
So, if you’re a fan of music and tea alike, get ready to dive into our curated list of Songs About Tea that will brighten up your playlist.
From famous hits to hidden gems, let’s explore how this humble beverage can serve as inspiration for beautiful melodies and lyrics.
1. “Cup of Tea” by Shack (2006)
About this song:
- Album: On the Corner of Miles and Gil
- Released: 2006
- Artist: Shack
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “My cup of tea doesn’t taste the same when she’s with me.”
Released in 2006, “Cup of Tea” by Shack is a track from their critically acclaimed album On the Corner of Miles and Gil.
The song was written by Mick Head, the band’s frontman, who often draws from his personal experiences in his lyrics.
It reflects the everyday simplicities of life, with “tea” symbolizing comfort and routine.
The composition took place during a period of recovery and reflection for Head following struggles with addiction.
The song carries a bittersweet tone, illustrating both the mundane and the profound aspects of daily life.
2. “Sugar in Your Tea” by Harumi (1968)
About this song:
- Album: Harumi
- Released: 1968
- Artist: Harumi
- Genre: Regional Brazilian, MPB, Psychedelic Rock, Pop, Rock, Argentinian Rock
- Key Lyric: “You put some sugar in your tea. Just to hide the flavor of reality.”
Released in 1968, “Sugar in Your Tea” was part of Harumi’s self-titled double album, a rare gem in the psychedelic genre.
Harumi, a Japanese artist living in New York, was known for blending Eastern and Western musical influences in his work.
The song metaphorically speaks about sweetening life’s bitter moments, with tea serving as a symbol of comfort.
The album was produced by Tom Wilson, who was known for working with iconic artists like Bob Dylan and The Velvet Underground.
“Sugar in Your Tea” stands out for its intricate arrangements and the blend of cultural influences that characterized Harumi’s brief but impactful career.
3. “Cup of Tea” by Kacey Musgraves (2015)
About this song:
- Album: Pageant Material
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Kacey Musgraves
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “You can’t be everybody’s cup of tea. Some like the bitter, some the sweet.”
Kacey Musgraves released “Cup of Tea” as part of her 2015 album Pageant Material.
Musgraves, known for her witty and insightful lyrics, uses the song to convey a message of self-acceptance and authenticity.
The title phrase is used to suggest that not everyone will like or understand you, and that’s perfectly fine.
This song was composed during a time when Musgraves was finding her voice in the country music industry, balancing traditional and modern elements.
“Cup of Tea” reflects Musgraves’ broader theme of embracing individuality in the face of societal expectations.
4. “Boston Tea Party” by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band (1976)
About this song:
- Album: SAHB Stories (Remastered 2002)
- Released: 1976
- Artist: The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
- Genre: Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Are you going to the party? Going to the Boston Tea Party.”
“Boston Tea Party” was released in 1976 on the album SAHB Stories by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band.
The song’s title references the historical event, but it’s used metaphorically to address rebellion and standing up against the norm.
The lyrics were penned by Alex Harvey, known for his theatrical and often politically charged songwriting.
Composed during a time of political unrest, the song captures the spirit of defiance that was prevalent in the mid-1970s.
The track blends rock and roll with a punk attitude, showcasing the band’s eclectic style and Harvey’s distinctive vocal delivery.
5. “Afternoon Tea” by The Kinks (1967)
About this song:
- Album: Something Else by the Kinks
- Released: 1967
- Artist: The Kinks
- Genre: Children’s Music, Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “If you take it with me (Afternoon tea), you take it as long as you like ’cause I like you, girl.”
Released in 1967, “Afternoon Tea” is part of The Kinks’ album Something Else by The Kinks.
Written by Ray Davies, the song captures the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea, using it as a backdrop for themes of nostalgia and lost love.
The song’s gentle melody and reflective lyrics contrast with some of the more satirical tracks on the album.
The composition of “Afternoon Tea” occurred during a period when The Kinks were transitioning from their earlier rock sound to more introspective and sophisticated songwriting.
The song exemplifies Davies’ talent for turning everyday moments into poignant reflections on life and relationships.
6. “Tea Leaf Prophecy” by Joni Mitchell (1988)
About this song:
- Album: Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm
- Released: 1988
- Artist: Joni Mitchell
- Genre: Pop, Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Study war no more. Lay down your arms.”
“Tea Leaf Prophecy” was released in 1988 as part of Joni Mitchell’s album Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm.
The song was inspired by Mitchell’s mother’s experiences during World War II, blending personal history with broader social commentary.
In the song, tea leaves are a metaphor for the uncertain future and the hopes tied to the end of the war.
Mitchell co-wrote the song with Larry Klein, her then-husband, during a period of experimentation with more synthesized sounds.
The track is a poignant mix of nostalgia, prophecy, and the blending of personal and universal experiences.
7. “Tea and Sympathy” by Janis Ian (1975)
About this song:
- Album: Between the Lines
- Released: 1975
- Artist: Janis Ian
- Genre: Pop, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Pass the tea and sympathy. For the good ol’ days long gone.”
Janis Ian released “Tea and Sympathy” in 1975 on her album Between the Lines, which is considered one of her most successful works.
The song reflects Ian’s gift for storytelling, using tea as a symbol of comfort amidst emotional pain.
The lyrics were inspired by the complexities of relationships and the longing for connection in difficult times.
Composed during a time when Ian was exploring deeper emotional themes, the song stands out for its vulnerability and introspection.
“Tea and Sympathy” became one of Ian’s signature songs, resonating with audiences for its raw and relatable emotion.
8. “Cup of Tea in Bed” by Lorraine Bowen (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Oh! What a Star!
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Lorraine Bowen
- Genre: Rock, Pop
- Key Lyric: “But this cup of tea was made for me by you.”
“Cup of Tea in Bed” was released by Lorraine Bowen in 2001, known for her quirky and humorous musical style.
Bowen, a British singer-songwriter, often incorporates mundane aspects of daily life into her music, infusing them with whimsy and charm.
The song humorously celebrates the simple pleasure of enjoying a cup of tea while still in bed, highlighting life’s little luxuries.
Written and composed during a period when Bowen was gaining popularity for her unique blend of comedy and music, the song reflects her lighthearted approach to songwriting.
“Cup of Tea in Bed” remains a delightful example of Bowen’s ability to find joy in the every day and connect with her audience through shared experiences.
9. “Tea for Two” by Doris Day (1950)
About this song:
- Album: A Day At the Movies
- Released: 1950
- Artist: Doris Day
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Picture me upon your knee with tea for two and two for tea.”
Doris Day recorded “Tea for Two” in 1950 as the title track for the film of the same name, where she also starred.
The song, originally composed by Vincent Youmans with lyrics by Irving Caesar, became closely associated with Day’s bright and joyful interpretation.
Day’s version of the song is light and bubbly, capturing the playful and romantic spirit of the era.
Recorded during a time when Day was transitioning from big band singer to Hollywood star, the song helped solidify her image as America’s sweetheart.
“Tea for Two” remains one of Day’s most beloved performances, exemplifying her talent for bringing warmth and charm to classic tunes.
10. “Tea in the Sahara” by The Police (1983)
About this song:
- Album: Synchronicity
- Released: 1983
- Artist: The Police
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Tea in the Sahara with you.”
Released in 1983, “Tea in the Sahara” is a track from The Police’s album Synchronicity.
The song was written by Sting, inspired by a story in Paul Bowles’ novel The Sheltering Sky, where two sisters die waiting for tea in the Sahara desert.
It reflects themes of futility, longing, and the passing of time, with the tea symbolizing a promise that remains unfulfilled.
The composition took place during a time when The Police were experimenting with more complex, layered arrangements, moving away from their earlier, more straightforward rock sound.
“Tea in the Sahara” stands out for its haunting melody and sparse, atmospheric instrumentation, adding depth to the narrative.
11. “Tea for the Tillerman” by Cat Stevens (1970)
About this song:
- Album: Tea for the Tillerman
- Released: 1970
- Artist: Cat Stevens
- Genre: Pop music, Folk rock
- Key Lyric: “Bring tea for the Tillerman, Steak for the Sun, Wine for the woman who made the rain come.”
“Tea for the Tillerman” was released in 1970 as the title track of Cat Stevens’ fourth studio album.
Stevens wrote the song during a period of personal and artistic transformation after recovering from a serious illness.
The lyrics reflect a yearning for simplicity and peace, using the image of tea as a symbol of solace in a chaotic world.
The composition features a gentle melody and Stevens’ warm, reflective vocals, capturing the introspective mood of the album.
“Tea for the Tillerman” has since become a signature song for Stevens, encapsulating the themes of spirituality and simplicity that define his work.
12. “The Tea Dance” by Philip Jeays (2005)
About this song:
- Album: Mr Jeays
- Released: 2005
- Artist: Philip Jeays
- Genre: Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Welcome to the tea dance. Old debutants getting up on their toes.”
“The Tea Dance” by Philip Jeays was released in 2005 on his album Mr Jeays.
Jeays, a British singer-songwriter known for his cabaret style, composed the song as a nostalgic reflection on the social dances of the early 20th century.
The song uses the concept of a tea dance as a metaphor for the fleeting moments of joy and connection in life.
Written during a period when Jeays was gaining recognition for his distinctive lyrical storytelling, the song blends whimsy with melancholy.
“The Tea Dance” is characterized by its theatrical flair and Jeays’ ability to evoke vivid imagery through his lyrics.
13. “Have a Cuppa Tea” by The Kinks (1971)
About this song:
- Album: Muswell Hillbillies
- Released: 1971
- Artist: The Kinks
- Genre: Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Have a cuppa tea, have a cuppa tea.”
Released in 1971, “Have a Cuppa Tea” is part of The Kinks’ album Muswell Hillbillies.
Ray Davies, the band’s lead singer and songwriter, wrote the song as a light-hearted tribute to the British tradition of tea drinking.
The song humorously addresses the idea that tea is a remedy for all of life’s problems, reflecting Davies’ knack for social commentary.
Composed during a time when The Kinks were exploring their English roots and cultural identity, the song blends folk and rock influences.
“Have a Cuppa Tea” remains a fan favorite for its catchy melody and witty lyrics, celebrating the everyday rituals that define British life.
14. “Tea For Two” by Nat King Cole (1956)
About this song:
- Album: The Piano Style of Nat King Cole
- Released: 1956
- Artist: Nat King Cole
- Genre: Pop, Jazz, Vocal/Easy Listening, Blues
- Key Lyric: “Darling this place is a lover’s oasis where lights where we chase is unknown.”
“Tea For Two” was popularized by Nat King Cole when he recorded it for his 1956 album The Piano Style of Nat King Cole.
The song, originally from the 1925 musical No, No, Nanette, was written by Vincent Youmans with lyrics by Irving Caesar.
Cole’s version is a romantic and elegant interpretation, with the tea for two representing a moment of intimacy and connection between lovers.
The song’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and charm, with Cole’s smooth vocals and piano playing bringing a new depth to the classic tune.
“Tea For Two” has become one of the most enduring standards in the American Songbook, with Cole’s version being particularly beloved for its warmth and grace.
15. “Katie’s Tea” by Camille (2008)
About this song:
- Album: Music Hole
- Released: 2008
- Artist: Camille
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “No I just can’t seem to give it up. Cause her tea runs in my veins.”
Released in 2008, “Katie’s Tea” is a track from French singer-songwriter Camille’s album Music Hole.
The song was written during a period of experimentation with vocal techniques and minimalist instrumentation, which characterizes much of Camille’s work.
“Katie’s Tea” uses the imagery of tea to explore themes of friendship, memory, and the passage of time.
Camille composed the song as part of an album where every track is linked by a continuous note, creating a unique and cohesive listening experience.
The song is notable for its delicate balance between simplicity and emotional depth, reflecting Camille’s innovative approach to music.
16. “Tea and Thorazine” by Andrew Bird (1999)
About this song:
- Album: Oh! The Grandeur
- Released: 1999
- Artist: Andrew Bird
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I can tell by the way you take your infusion. You’ve spent some time in a mental institution.”
“Tea and Thorazine” was released in 1999 as part of Andrew Bird’s album Oh! The Grandeur.
The song was inspired by Bird’s observations of mental health and the use of medications like Thorazine, a powerful antipsychotic.
The lyrics juxtapose the comforting image of tea with the harsh reality of medication, creating a poignant commentary on the struggles of mental illness.
Composed during a time when Bird was developing his distinctive blend of folk, jazz, and indie rock, the song showcases his lyrical wit and musical innovation.
“Tea and Thorazine” is both darkly humorous and deeply empathetic, reflecting Bird’s unique ability to address complex subjects through his music.
17. “The Tea Song” by Michael Hurley (1964)
About this song:
- Album: Blueberry Wine
- Released: 1964
- Artist: Michael Hurley
- Genre: Folk
- Key Lyric: “I’ll drink my tea & sit & dream. Conjure up the leprechaun to dance upon the steam.”
“The Tea Song” by Michael Hurley was released in 1964 on his album Blueberry Wine, a collaboration with The Unholy Modal Rounders.
Hurley, known for his quirky and offbeat folk style, wrote the song as a whimsical ode to the pleasures of drinking tea.
The song captures Hurley’s love for the simple things in life, with tea serving as a metaphor for comfort and contentment.
Composed in a period of relative obscurity, “The Tea Song” has since gained a cult following for its charming simplicity and Hurley’s distinctive voice.
The track is a testament to Hurley’s ability to infuse everyday experiences with a sense of wonder and joy.
18. “Tea and Sympathy” by Jars of Clay (1997)
About this song:
- Album: Much Afraid
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Jars of Clay
- Genre: Gospel, Christian
- Key Lyric: “Don’t trade our love for tea and sympathy, no.”
Released in 1997, “Tea and Sympathy” is a song from Jars of Clay’s second album, Much Afraid.
The band, known for their blend of alternative rock and Christian themes, wrote the song about the challenges of relationships and the longing for understanding.
The tea symbolizes a moment of pause and reflection, while the sympathy reflects the need for emotional connection.
The song was composed during a time when Jars of Clay were exploring deeper, more introspective themes, moving away from the more upbeat sound of their debut album.
“Tea and Sympathy” became one of the standout tracks on the album, resonating with listeners for its heartfelt lyrics and evocative melody.
19. “Tea House Moon” by Enya (1995)
About this song:
- Album: The Memory of Trees
- Released: 1995
- Artist: Enya
- Genre: Holiday
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song.
“Tea House Moon” was released in 1995 as part of Enya’s album The Memory of Trees.
The song, composed by Enya and produced by Nicky Ryan, features her signature ethereal soundscapes and layered vocals.
The title suggests a peaceful, meditative scene, with “tea house” evoking a place of tranquility and “moon” symbolizing serenity and reflection.
Enya created the track during a period of exploration into more ambient and minimalist compositions, focusing on mood and atmosphere.
“Tea House Moon” stands out for its calming, almost hypnotic quality, capturing the listener with its gentle, soothing melody.
20. “Tea for Two Cha Cha” by Tommy Dorsey Orchestra (1959)
About this song:
- Album: Tea for Two Cha Cha
- Released: 1959
- Artist: Tommy Dorsey Orchestra
- Genre: Latin
- Key Lyric: “That’s when we kiss and kiss and kiss and then we kiss some more. Don’t ask me how many times we kiss at a time like this. Who keeps score.”
Released in 1959, “Tea for Two Cha Cha” was a popular song by the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra featuring Warren Covington on trombone.
The song is a cha-cha version of the classic tune “Tea for Two,” originally composed by Vincent Youmans and Irving Caesar.
This arrangement brought a fresh, danceable twist to the well-known melody, making it a hit in the era of Latin dance crazes.
The recording was produced during a time when the big band era was transitioning into more diverse musical styles, including Latin rhythms.
“Tea for Two Cha Cha” became a commercial success, demonstrating the adaptability of classic tunes to new and contemporary forms.
21. “Green Tea” by Shonen Knife (2014)
About this song:
- Album: Overdrive
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Shonen Knife
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I like green tea. Green tea ice cream.”
“Green Tea” was released in 2014 on Shonen Knife’s album Overdrive.
The Japanese pop-punk band wrote the song as a cheerful ode to the traditional Japanese beverage, reflecting their playful and quirky style.
The lyrics celebrate the health benefits and cultural significance of green tea with the band’s signature upbeat energy.
The song was composed during a period when Shonen Knife was gaining international recognition, blending Japanese culture with Western musical influences.
“Green Tea” captures the band’s fun, lighthearted approach to music, making everyday subjects like tea feel vibrant and exciting.
22. “Tea For Two” by Thelonious Monk (1963)
About this song:
- Album: Criss-Cross
- Released: 1963
- Artist: Thelonious Monk
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song.
Thelonious Monk’s rendition of “Tea For Two” was recorded in 1963, becoming one of the jazz pianist’s celebrated interpretations.
Originally composed by Vincent Youmans and Irving Caesar in 1925, Monk’s version brought a unique, improvisational twist to the classic tune.
Monk’s arrangement is known for its inventive rhythm changes and complex harmonies, showcasing his genius for reinterpreting standards.
This recording was part of Monk’s broader effort to redefine jazz piano, blending traditional elements with avant-garde innovation.
“Tea For Two” by Monk remains a quintessential example of his ability to transform familiar songs into something entirely new and unexpected.
23. “Tea for One” by Led Zeppelin (1976)
About this song:
- Album: Presence
- Released: 1976
- Artist: Led Zeppelin
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “How come twenty-four hours? Baby, sometimes seem to slip into days?”
“Tea for One” was released in 1976 on Led Zeppelin’s album Presence.
Written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, the song is a slow blues number that reflects themes of loneliness and longing, with tea symbolizing solitude.
The track was composed during a difficult time for the band, with Plant recovering from a car accident, adding a sense of melancholy to the music.
Unlike the band’s more famous hard rock anthems, “Tea for One” stands out for its introspective lyrics and haunting guitar work.
The song has become a fan favorite for its emotional depth and its departure from Led Zeppelin’s usual style, showcasing their versatility as musicians.
24. “When I Take My Sugar to Tea” by Frank Sinatra (1961)
About this song:
- Album: Ring-a-Ding-Ding!
- Released: 1961
- Artist: Frank Sinatra
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: “When I take my sugar to tea, I’m as ritzy as I can be.”
Frank Sinatra recorded “When I Take My Sugar to Tea” in 1961 for his album Ring-a-Ding-Ding!.
The song, originally written in 1931 by Sammy Fain, Irving Kahal, and Pierre Norman, was revived by Sinatra with his smooth, swinging style.
The lyrics paint a charming picture of romance, with tea being a symbol of refined, sweet moments shared with a loved one.
Sinatra’s version brought new life to the tune, blending his impeccable phrasing with a lively, big-band arrangement.
The song became one of the many standards that Sinatra made his own, highlighting his ability to connect with listeners through timeless melodies.
25. “Pennyroyal Tea” by Nirvana (1993)
About this song:
- Album: In Utero
- Released: 1993
- Artist: Nirvana
- Genre: Grunge
- Key Lyric: “Sit and drink Pennyroyal Tea. Distill the life that’s inside of me.”
“Pennyroyal Tea” was released in 1993 on Nirvana’s album In Utero, written by Kurt Cobain.
The song’s title references pennyroyal, an herb traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including as an abortifacient, adding a dark undertone to the lyrics.
Cobain’s lyrics reflect feelings of pain, alienation, and the desire for escape, with the tea metaphorically representing a form of self-medication.
The track was composed during a tumultuous period in Cobain’s life, marked by his struggles with fame, addiction, and mental health.
“Pennyroyal Tea” has since become one of Nirvana’s most iconic songs, capturing the raw emotion and intensity that characterized the band’s music.
Conclusion
In conclusion, from historic ballads to modern-day hits, Songs About Tea have been a source of comfort, inspiration, and celebration for centuries.
They remind us of the simple pleasures in life and the significance that a cup of tea holds in various cultures worldwide.
Whether it’s a catchy tune to hum along while sipping your favorite brew or a powerful anthem advocating for social change, songs about tea connect people from all walks of life.
So, next time you put on your playlist or attend a concert, pay attention to the lyrics and melodies surrounding this beloved beverage.
Who knows, you may discover a new appreciation for both music and tea!