Welcome to our cozy corner of the internet, where today we’re steeping ourselves in the warm, aromatic world of music and tea.
There’s something undeniably comforting about the ritual of brewing a cup of tea—a quiet moment of reflection that often pairs beautifully with the right soundtrack.
In this blog post, we’ll pour over the “10 Best Songs About Tea,” a curated playlist that blends the soothing essence of tea with melodious tunes.
From folk tales steeped in tradition to contemporary ballads that simmer with emotion, each song on our list captures the spirit of this timeless beverage.
So, grab your favorite mug, let your tea leaves unfurl, and prepare to steep your soul in a music-infused reverie that celebrates the liquid zen that is tea.
1. “Tea for Two” by Doris Day
“Tea for Two” is a classic tune that harkens back to the golden era of Hollywood, immortalized by the honeyed voice of Doris Day.
Originally from the 1925 musical “No, No, Nanette,” this song has been covered by many, but Doris Day’s rendition in the 1950 film of the same name stands out for its whimsical charm and timeless elegance.
The song is a delightful ode to simplicity and companionship, envisioning a dreamy future where love, tea, and togetherness are the only ingredients needed for a life of bliss.
Day’s clear, melodious vocals invite us to a world where the simplest pleasures are the most treasured, and every note promises a cozy, heartwarming escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
2. “Afternoon Tea” by The Kinks
The quintessentially British rock band The Kinks brings us “Afternoon Tea,” a track that encapsulates the quaint and charming tradition of the midday break that’s become a staple of English culture.
Featured on their 1967 album “Something Else by The Kinks,” the song is a subtle blend of social commentary and nostalgic reflection, all served up with the band’s signature wit and melodic prowess.
Ray Davies’ lyrical storytelling paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, where taking time for afternoon tea was as much a social ritual as it was a moment of relaxation.
Through its gentle tempo and satirical edge, “Afternoon Tea” invites listeners to step back in time and savor the simplicity of life, one sip—and one song—at a time.
3. “Tea in the Sahara” by The Police
“Tea in the Sahara,” by the legendary trio The Police, stands out as one of the more evocative and enigmatic tracks from their final studio album, “Synchronicity,” released in 1983.
With its haunting melody and the ethereal quality of Sting’s vocals, the song weaves a narrative inspired by Paul Bowles’ novel “The Sheltering Sky.”
It tells the poignant tale of three sisters and their unquenchable desire for a fulfilled promise—a tea ceremony in the vast desolation of the Sahara.
The mesmerizing blend of Stewart Copeland’s percussive mastery and Andy Summers’ atmospheric guitar work transports listeners to a landscape both desolate and beautiful, crafting a metaphor for unattainable dreams and the stark reality of desire versus disillusionment.
“Tea in the Sahara” is a reflective piece that lingers long after the last note fades, like a mirage on the horizon.
4. “Green Tea” by Shonen Knife
“Green Tea” by Shonen Knife is a vibrant and playful song from their 2014 album “Overdrive.”
Shonen Knife, the all-female rock band from Japan, is known for its whimsical lyrics and energetic punk-pop sound.
In this catchy tune, they pay homage to the various delightful forms of green tea—ice cream, chocolate, and lattes.
With its repetitive, chant-like lyrics and upbeat tempo, the song mirrors the refreshing and invigorating qualities of green tea itself.
It’s a fun and lighthearted ode to a beloved beverage, showcasing Shonen Knife’s unique ability to find joy and inspiration in the simplest pleasures of life.
“Green Tea” is sure to leave listeners with a craving for both the drink and more of Shonen Knife’s infectious music.
5. “Tea and Thorazine” by Andrew Bird
“Tea and Thorazine” is a thought-provoking song by Andrew Bird, found on his 1999 album “Oh! The Grandeur.”
With its eclectic blend of jazz influences and Bird’s distinctive violin playing, the song creates a whimsical, yet melancholic soundscape.
The lyrics offer a glimpse into the struggles of mental health, conveyed through the metaphorical ‘tea and Thorazine,’ a stark contrast between the comfort of tea and the clinical nature of the medication.
Bird’s storytelling ability shines through as he paints a picture of life within the confines of institutionalization, all while maintaining a sense of surreal escapism through the vivid imagery of an ‘etch-a-sketch.’
It’s a song that balances the beautiful with the somber, showcasing Bird’s unique talent for musical alchemy.
6. “Tea and Sympathy” by Jars of Clay
“Tea and Sympathy” by Jars of Clay is a heartfelt track that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of connection.
Featured on their self-titled album released in 1997, the song is characterized by its emotive lyrics and the band’s signature folk-rock sound.
The title itself, “Tea and Sympathy,” suggests a yearning for understanding and compassion, themes that resonate throughout the song.
The gentle acoustic guitar and evocative vocal harmonies create a reflective mood, as the lyrics lament the challenges of seeking solace and the often fruitless attempts to find meaning in words.
It’s a poignant reminder of the comfort found in simple acts of kindness, making “Tea and Sympathy” a touching addition to Jars of Clay’s rich musical catalog.
7. “One More Cup of Coffee” by Bob Dylan
“One More Cup of Coffee” is a stirring song by Bob Dylan from his acclaimed 1976 album, “Desire.”
The track stands out with its gypsy-like melody and haunting violin played by Scarlet Rivera, which complements Dylan’s raw vocal delivery.
In this song, Dylan weaves a narrative of a mysterious woman of great beauty and aloofness, her loyalty belonging not to the earthly realm but to the ‘stars above.’
There’s an undercurrent of unreciprocated love and the yearning for connection, symbolized by the simple act of sharing ‘one more cup of coffee’ before departure.
The evocative imagery and Dylan’s emotive storytelling create a palpable atmosphere of longing and resignation, capturing the essence of a fleeting romance against a backdrop of otherworldly allure.
8. “Tea House Moon” by Enya
“Tea House Moon” is an enchanting instrumental track by the Irish musician Enya, featured on her 1997 album “The Memory of Trees.”
Known for her ethereal soundscapes and layered vocals, Enya takes a serene departure with this piece that conjures images of tranquility and reflection.
The title evokes the peaceful ambiance of a moonlit tea house, a place of solitude and contemplation.
Without words, the melody carries the listener through a serene journey, employing delicate synths and a gentle, rhythmic pattern that mimics the ritual of tea preparation and enjoyment.
It’s a soothing musical interlude that showcases Enya’s ability to create a mood of calm and beauty with her compositions.
9. “Katie’s Tea” by Camille
“Katie’s Tea” by Camille is a mesmerizing track that captures the essence of longing and addiction, wrapped in the metaphor of tea.
This song, nestled within her album “Music Hole,” showcases Camille’s exceptional talent for blending poetic lyrics with her emotive voice.
The song’s lyrics speak of an irresistible pull towards Katie’s tea, suggesting a deeper, almost intoxicating connection that runs through the veins of the narrator.
The request for “another cup” symbolizes a yearning for more than just the beverage itself, hinting at emotional depths and the complexities of desire.
Camille’s unique vocal delivery and the haunting melody create a captivating atmosphere that draws listeners into a world where tea serves as a poignant symbol of longing and connection.
10. “When I Take My Sugar to Tea” by Frank Sinatra
https://open.spotify.com/track/0yCou3gsdTOcehQS2fk8aZ
“When I Take My Sugar to Tea” is a charming and swanky tune made famous by the legendary Frank Sinatra.
This song, with its light-hearted and suave lyrics, captures the essence of the golden era of jazz and swing.
Sinatra’s smooth and sophisticated delivery transports listeners to a bygone era when taking one’s sweetheart out for tea was a stylish social affair.
The lyrics depict a man who revels in the envy of his peers as he takes his beloved “sugar” to tea, away from the familiar crowd.
It’s a playful portrayal of courtship and the delight of spending exclusive time with one’s significant other.
Sinatra’s rendition of this classic is a timeless piece that embodies the debonair charm and romantic sentimentality of the early 20th century.
Conclusion
The combination of tea and music is a delightful fusion of sensory pleasures that can elevate your tea time to a truly magical experience.
Whether you’re drawn to classic tunes, modern hits, or international melodies, there’s a tea-inspired song for every tea enthusiast.
So, brew a fresh pot of your favorite tea, press play on your Twinkle tea playlist, and let the enchanting harmony of music and tea transport you to a world of tranquility and joy. Cheers to the perfect twinkle tea time!