Top 10 Songs About Food: A Feast of Music and Culinary Inspiration

Food and music have always shared a connection, each nourishing the soul in unique ways. We've compiled a list of the top 10 songs that celebrate food—sometimes directly, sometimes metaphorically. But first, enjoy this beautiful jazz performance by Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, where music itself is a form of nutrition.

Watch the performance here.

10. Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani

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While Gwen Stefani spells out “BANANAS” to highlight her song's energy, this track remains a classic mention of food in music. Did you know it uses cheerleading as a metaphor, with the hollaback girl repeating the lead cheerleader's call?

9. Banana Pancakes by Jack Johnson

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Jack Johnson's chilled-out ode to banana pancakes is perfect for rainy days. With lines like “Can’t you see that it’s just rainin’?”, he captures a cozy, carefree vibe.

8. Salt Peanuts by Dizzy Gillespie

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A bebop classic, this energetic track highlights Gillespie's genius. The precise enunciation of "salt peanuts" adds a playful rhythm to an already brilliant performance.

7. What Would Brian Boitano Do? by DVDA

A humorous tribute to the famous American figure skater, this song includes a memorable verse about eating spicy chicken wings. Thanks to Trey Parker and Matt Stone of South Park fame for this quirky culinary mention.

6. Sugar, Sugar by The Archies

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This 1969 bubblegum pop hit is as sweet as its title. With lyrics like "You are my candy girl," it’s a sugary treat for the ears.

5. Food, Glorious Food from Oliver! by Lionel Bart

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The opening number from the musical Oliver! celebrates the simple joy of food. It’s a theatrical ode to culinary cravings.

4. Ham 'N' Eggs by A Tribe Called Quest

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This funky track encourages healthy eating and even hints at vegetarianism. A Tribe Called Quest delivers rhythm, rhymes, and food wisdom in one.

3. Milkshake by Kelis

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Kelis’s hit is all about temptation, packaged in a catchy beat. Fun fact: Kelis is also a chef and restaurant owner, bringing her culinary passions full circle.

2. Mother Popcorn by James Brown

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The Godfather of Soul brings his signature sounds to this track. Popcorn may be the title, but James Brown’s iconic noises steal the show.

1. The Onion Song by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

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A soulful duet about peeling back life's layers, this song became a poignant release for Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, showcasing their unmatched chemistry.

Bonus Resources

For a deeper dive into musical mentions of food, check out this list of 47 songs about food.

Conclusion

From jazz classics to pop hits, these songs prove that food is more than sustenance—it’s an inspiration for art. What’s your favorite food-themed song? Let us know in the comments or share your own playlist!