The Meaning Behind The Song: The Coffee Song (They’ve Got an Awful lot of Coffee in Brazil) by Sam Cooke

The Meaning Behind the Coffee Song

“The Coffee Song (They’ve Got an Awful lot of Coffee in Brazil)” is a catchy and light-hearted song that was popularized by Sam Cooke in 1960. The song was written by Bob Hilliard and Dick Miles. It explores the abundance of coffee production in Brazil and uses humor to depict the impact this has on other beverages and even lifestyle choices.

The song begins by highlighting the sheer quantity of coffee beans that grow in Brazil, emphasizing the need for extra cups to fill. The lyrics suggest that there is such an overwhelming amount of coffee in Brazil that other drinks like cherry soda cannot be found easily, as the producers prioritize selling their coffee quota. This creates a sense of exaggeration and humor.

The lyrics further exaggerate the coffee dominance by stating that there is no tea or tomato juice and even potato juice in Brazil because the planters in Santos refuse to cultivate them. The mention of a politician’s daughter being fined for drinking water adds a comical element to the song, suggesting that even consuming water might be considered a luxury in a country so consumed by coffee.

The repetition of the phrase “They’ve got an awful lot of coffee in Brazil” throughout the song emphasizes the central theme of the overwhelming abundance of coffee in the country. The lyrics playfully celebrate this fact, creating a cheerful and upbeat melody that makes it easy to sing along.

Personal Connection

This song has always held a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my childhood and time spent with my family. Whenever we would have family gatherings or road trips, this song would inevitably come up on the playlist. I remember singing along with my parents and siblings, laughing at the lyrics and enjoying the catchy melody. It became a tradition of sorts, and even now, whenever I hear this song, it brings back those cherished memories.

Beyond its sentimental value, “The Coffee Song” is a testament to Sam Cooke’s ability to bring joy and entertainment to his audience. His smooth vocals and playful delivery perfectly complement the hilarious lyrics, making it impossible not to smile when listening to the song. It serves as a reminder of how music can unite people through shared experiences and bring happiness to even the simplest moments in life.

In conclusion, “The Coffee Song (They’ve Got an Awful lot of Coffee in Brazil)” by Sam Cooke is a lighthearted and humorous song that celebrates the abundance of coffee in Brazil. It employs exaggeration and playful lyrics to highlight the dominance of coffee over other beverages. This song holds personal significance for me and serves as a reminder of the joy and unity that music can bring to our lives.