Suds and Song: Beer is Good Lyrics to Toast To
Whether it’s a refreshing pilsner on a hot summer day or a full-bodied stout by the fireplace on a cold winter night, there’s nothing quite like a cold beer to quench your thirst and lift your spirits. And when it comes to celebrating the joys of beer, what better way than through song?
From classic rock anthems to contemporary hits, here are some of the best beer-themed lyrics to raise a glass to – and the stories behind them.
1. “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall” – Traditional
It’s the ultimate drinking game – sing along to the classic tune as you pass around a bottle of beer, starting with 99 and counting down to zero. It’s unclear where or when the song originated, but it’s been a staple of American drinking culture for generations.
2. “Beer for My Horses” – Toby Keith ft. Willie Nelson
This 2002 country hit tells the story of an old sheriff and his trusty steed, who take down criminals while enjoying a cold beer at the end of the day. The catchy chorus – “We’ll raise up our glasses against evil forces, singing whiskey for my men, beer for my horses” – has become a popular toast among cowboys and cowgirls alike.
3. “Red Solo Cup” – Toby Keith
Another hit from country star Toby Keith, this party anthem pays tribute to the iconic red plastic cup that’s synonymous with backyard barbecues, tailgate parties, and college keggers. With lyrics like “You’re my friend, you’re my friend, you’re my lifetime friend” and “Let’s have a party, let’s have a party, I love you red solo cup”, it’s a lighthearted ode to the simple pleasures of beer and friendship.
4. “Beer in Mexico” – Kenny Chesney
In this 2007 hit, country superstar Kenny Chesney sings about escaping the stresses of everyday life by hitting the beach, sipping on a cold beer, and watching the world go by. With lyrics like “I can hear the waves crashin’ on the sand, I’m just glad to be here, happy to be alive”, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to unwind is to simply relax and enjoy life’s little pleasures.
5. “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” – George Thorogood and the Destroyers
This blues classic dates back to the 1950s, but it was George Thorogood’s 1977 version that put it on the map. With its gritty lyrics and driving guitar riffs, it’s the perfect song to sing along to while knocking back shots of bourbon, Scotch, and, of course, beer. As Thorogood himself once said, “If you’re ever at a George Thorogood concert and you don’t know what to do, just shout ‘One bourbon, one scotch, one beer’, and you’ll fit right in.”
6. “Tubthumping” – Chumbawamba
This 1997 hit from British band Chumbawamba is more about getting knocked down and getting back up again than it is about beer – but the catchy chorus (“I get knocked down, but I get up again, you’re never gonna keep me down”) has become a popular anthem among beer drinkers and partygoers alike. And with lines like “Pissing the night away, pissing the night away”, it’s a reminder to always drink responsibly.
Conclusion
Beer has been the subject of countless songs throughout history, from raucous drinking games to heartfelt tributes to the simple pleasures of life. No matter what your taste in music, there’s sure to be a beer-themed lyric that speaks to you and your love of good times, good friends, and cold suds.
FAQs
Q: What is the best beer-themed song?
A: That’s a matter of personal taste, but some of the most popular beer-themed songs include “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall”, “Beer for My Horses”, “Red Solo Cup”, and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer”.
Q: What is the meaning behind “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba?
A: While “Tubthumping” is not specifically about beer, the song’s message of resilience and persistence has made it a popular anthem among beer drinkers and partygoers. The lyrics also reference drinking (“Pissing the night away”), making it a cautionary tale about the importance of drinking responsibly.
Q: What is the history behind “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall”?
A: The origins of “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall” are unclear, but the song has been a popular drinking game in America for generations. The goal is to start with 99 bottles on the wall, and sing the song while counting down to zero. Each time you reach a multiple of 10 (such as 90, 80, 70, etc.), you take a drink.