Funny drinking songs have a unique charm that combines humor with the universal appeal of a good time. These tunes often playfully exaggerate the effects of alcohol or poke fun at the social rituals surrounding drinking.
The songs in our thoughtfully curated list are steeped in humor largely due to their playful responses to the era’s social constraints, especially the Prohibition of the 1920s and early 1930s. During this time, the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages were illegal, which sparked a wave of defiant and comedic songs. Artists used humor to mock the absurdity of Prohibition and express their dissatisfaction with the restrictions.
Songs such as “How Dry I Am” by Vernon Dalhart and “What’s the Use of Getting Sober” by Louis Jordan highlight the frustration and irony of being unable to enjoy a drink openly. The comedic value in these songs also reflects the general public’s sense of rebellion and their quest for lighthearted relief in a time of stringent social rules. They turn the often-serious topic of alcohol into an opportunity for laughter and entertainment, offering a playful lens through which to view the human experience with spirits.
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From comical takes on the challenges of abstinence to witty observations about the joys of imbibing, these songs capture the lighter side of a life of alcohol….that is, if you can appreciate the humor in how people cope with their drinking habits or the absurdities that come with trying to navigate social norms and restrictions.
Even if you’re not a drinker, you’re sure to find yourself laughing out loud as you listen to these tunes from our list.
1. “Bubbles in My Beer” by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys (1947)
“Bubbles in My Beer,” recorded by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys in 1947, is a humorous take on the experience of drinking beer. The song humorously contrasts the simple pleasure of drinking beer with the troubles and sorrows of life, using the imagery of “bubbles” as a metaphor for fleeting joys. The playful and light-hearted approach reflects the era’s need for escapism and humor, particularly as people sought solace from the challenges of the post-war period. Listen to it here. Listen to it here.
2. “Rum and Coca-Cola” by The Andrews Sisters (1944)
“Rum and Coca-Cola,” performed by The Andrews Sisters in 1944, is a lively song that reflects the cocktail culture of the time. The song humorously addresses the blending of rum with Coca-Cola and its popularity among servicemen and civilians alike. Its catchy tune and playful lyrics highlight a period when people sought enjoyment and lightheartedness amidst the backdrop of World War II and its accompanying challenges. Listen to it here.
3. “Six Pack to Go” by Hank Thompson (1960)
“Six Pack to Go,” sung by Hank Thompson in 1960, is a classic country tune that humorously describes a man’s desire to enjoy a six-pack of beer while lamenting his single life. The song’s witty lyrics and upbeat rhythm reflect a time when beer culture was becoming more prominent, and people enjoyed songs that playfully celebrated everyday indulgences. Listen to it here.
4. “Scotch and Soda” by The Kingston Trio (1958)
“Scotch and Soda,” performed by The Kingston Trio in 1958, features a laid-back, jazzy feel that complements its lyrics about enjoying a drink in a relaxed setting. The song captures the mid-century appreciation for sophisticated cocktails and social drinking, reflecting a period when such themes were popular in folk music. Listen to it here.
5. “Tequila” by The Champs (1958)
“Tequila,” released by The Champs in 1958, is a catchy instrumental that became famous for its lively beat and memorable chant of “Tequila!” The song’s upbeat, infectious rhythm epitomizes the fun and carefree spirit of the late 1950s, a time when the cocktail culture was booming and Tequila was gaining popularity as a trendy drink. Listen to it here.
6. “There’s a Tear in My Beer” by Hank Williams (1930s)
“There’s a Tear in My Beer” was recorded by Hank Williams in the 1930s. It’s a melancholic song that humorously conveys the singer’s sorrow over a spilled drink. The song captures the mood of the era when Prohibition had recently ended, and people were finding new ways to enjoy their drinks and express their feelings through music. Listen to it here.
7. “Budweiser’s A Friend Of Mine” by Billy Murray And Haydn Quartet (1907)
“Budweiser’s A Friend Of Mine” was recorded by Billy Murray and the Haydn Quartet in 1907. This is a playful tune celebrating the iconic beer brand. The song’s cheerful nature and catchy chorus reflect the early 20th-century trend of beer-themed songs, illustrating the growing popularity of commercial jingles in music. Listen to it here.
8. “How Dry I Am” by Vernon Dalhart (1920s)
“How Dry I Am” by Vernon Dalhart humorously portrays the plight of someone who’s run out of alcohol. This song emerged during Prohibition, capturing the public’s frustration with the era’s restrictions on alcohol consumption through a blend of satire and melody. Listen to it here (as sung by Yiorgos Batis).
9. “The Drinking Song” [AKA “Drink, Drink, Drink”] by Sigmund Romberg (1924)
“Drink, Drink, Drink,” composed by Sigmund Romberg with lyrics by Dorothy Donnelly in 1924, is a lively anthem from the operetta The Student Prince. The song gained notable popularity through a recording by tenor Mario Lanza, featured in the 1954 film adaptation. Its exuberant melody and infectious chorus reflect the era’s enthusiasm for celebration and camaraderie. The song’s lively tempo and repetitive chorus echo the sentiment of many during Prohibition who longed for the return of legal drinking and the camaraderie it brought. Listen to it here.
10. “There’s a Tavern in the Town” by Rudy Vallée (1934)
“There’s a Tavern in the Town” was performed by Rudy Vallée in 1934, and is a nostalgic tune that reminisces about a local drinking spot. The song, with its easygoing melody and wistful lyrics, reflects a period when people were savoring the end of Prohibition and celebrating the freedom to gather socially over drinks once more. Listen to it here.
11. “What’s the Use of Getting Sober (When You’re Gonna Get Drunk Again)” by Louis Jordan (1942)
“What’s the Use of Getting Sober (When You’re Gonna Get Drunk Again),” a 1942 hit by Louis Jordan, humorously addresses the futility of staying sober when there’s a strong desire to return to drinking. This song captures the post-Prohibition era’s more relaxed view of alcohol and the celebratory culture surrounding it. Listen to it here.
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