Exploring the sweet and savory world of music, this article dives into 19 songs that celebrate, mention, or metaphorically use pie, showcasing how this universal symbol of comfort and indulgence has made its way into various genres. From rock anthems to soulful ballads, these tracks serve up a delicious slice of musical pie, highlighting the versatility and appeal of this beloved dessert in storytelling and songwriting.
Contents
- 1. “American Pie” by Don McLean
- 2. “Honey Pie” by The Beatles
- 3. “Wild Honey Pie” by The Beatles
- 4. “Custard Pie” by Led Zeppelin
- 5. “Pecan Pie” by Golden Smog
- 6. “Cherry Pie” by Warrant
- 7. “Country Pie” by Bob Dylan
- 8. “Blueberry Pie” by Bette Midler
- 9. “Apple Pie à la Mode” by Destiny’s Child
- 10. “Sweet Potato Pie” by James Taylor and Ray Charles
- 11. “Pie Jesu” by Andrew Lloyd Webber
- 12. “Flaming Pie” by Paul McCartney
- 13. “Key Lime Pie” by Kenny Chesney
- 14. “Pumpkin Pie” by Evan Taubenfeld
- 15. “Making Pies” by Patty Griffin
- 16. “Magic Pie” by Oasis
- 17. “Porcupine Pie” by Neil Diamond
- 18. “Savoy Truffle” by The Beatles
- 19. “Devil’s Pie” by D’Angelo
1. “American Pie” by Don McLean
“American Pie” by Don McLean is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that captures a pivotal era in American history. Through its iconic lyrics, McLean weaves a rich tapestry that reflects on the changes and challenges of the late 20th century, making it an enduring symbol of American culture and nostalgia.
2. “Honey Pie” by The Beatles
“Honey Pie” by The Beatles showcases the band’s affection for the music of the early 20th century, effectively transporting listeners back to the days of vaudeville and jazz clubs. Its whimsical lyrics and old-timey melody highlight The Beatles’ capacity for musical range and experimentation, paying homage to the sounds that preceded rock ‘n’ roll.
3. “Wild Honey Pie” by The Beatles
“Wild Honey Pie” by The Beatles stands out as a brief yet striking example of experimentation on the iconic White Album. Its unconventional structure and off-kilter harmonies reflect the band’s willingness to explore the boundaries of their sound, showcasing a playful departure from their more polished hits.
4. “Custard Pie” by Led Zeppelin
“Custard Pie” by Led Zeppelin rocks out with a deep nod to the blues, merging classic dessert imagery with gritty, powerful riffs. This track serves as a standout example of how Led Zeppelin infused their music with the essence of blues traditions, creating a robust and flavorful homage that continues to resonate with fans.
5. “Pecan Pie” by Golden Smog
“Pecan Pie” by Golden Smog offers a light-hearted and affectionate ode to one of the South’s favorite desserts, blending whimsical lyrics with catchy melodies. This lesser-known track captures the spirit of its subject with a warmth and humor that makes it a delightful nod to pecan pie’s place in comfort food culture.
6. “Cherry Pie” by Warrant
“Cherry Pie” by Warrant has cemented its legacy as a quintessential hair metal anthem, complete with a controversial video that sparked debates around its portrayal of women. Despite the controversy, the song’s catchy hook and high-energy performance have ensured its ongoing popularity, making it a defining track of the era.
7. “Country Pie” by Bob Dylan
“Country Pie” by Bob Dylan presents a unique and simple ode to pie, showcasing Dylan’s ability to turn even the most mundane subjects into noteworthy music. His light-hearted take on the joy of enjoying a slice of country pie offers a refreshing break from his more serious works, highlighting the versatility of his songwriting.
8. “Blueberry Pie” by Bette Midler
“Blueberry Pie” by Bette Midler is a sweet and playful track that stands out in Midler’s diverse discography. With its cheerful melody and lighthearted lyrics, the song captures the simple joys of life, embodying the warmth and whimsy that Bette Midler is known for.
9. “Apple Pie à la Mode” by Destiny’s Child
“Apple Pie à la Mode” by Destiny’s Child playfully uses dessert as a metaphor to explore themes of love and desire, likening the sweet indulgence of apple pie à la mode to the intoxicating feeling of being in love. This track showcases Destiny’s Child’s knack for blending catchy R&B rhythms with clever and relatable lyrics.
10. “Sweet Potato Pie” by James Taylor and Ray Charles
“Sweet Potato Pie” by James Taylor and Ray Charles is a soulful ode to southern comfort food, marking an iconic collaboration between two music legends. Their voices blend seamlessly to celebrate the pleasures of home-cooked delights, infusing the track with warmth and a nostalgic sense of home.
11. “Pie Jesu” by Andrew Lloyd Webber
“Pie Jesu” by Andrew Lloyd Webber, though a departure from the culinary theme, is a moving composition from his Requiem Mass. Its ethereal melodies and heartfelt lyrics have touched audiences worldwide, showcasing Lloyd Webber’s mastery in blending classical music with emotional depth.
12. “Flaming Pie” by Paul McCartney
“Flaming Pie” by Paul McCartney connects deeply to The Beatles’ lore, with McCartney citing a humorous story of how the band’s name came to be – an imagined man on a flaming pie declaring them “The Beatles.” This track not only highlights McCartney’s storytelling prowess but also pays homage to the band’s legacy with a nod to its whimsical origins.
13. “Key Lime Pie” by Kenny Chesney
“Key Lime Pie” by Kenny Chesney perfectly encapsulates the singer’s coastal vibe and storytelling prowess, offering an auditory escape to the beach with a slice of key lime pie in hand. Chesney’s homage to this dessert showcases his ability to evoke the laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle that fans adore.
14. “Pumpkin Pie” by Evan Taubenfeld
“Pumpkin Pie” by Evan Taubenfeld offers a pop-punk salute to a beloved holiday favorite, blending energetic guitars with catchy, playful lyrics. Taubenfeld’s upbeat anthem captures the essence of festive spirit and youthful enthusiasm, making it a quirky addition to holiday playlists.
15. “Making Pies” by Patty Griffin
“Making Pies” by Patty Griffin stands out for its poignant storytelling and vivid imagery, offering a glimpse into the everyday life and inner world of its protagonist. Griffin’s folk sensibilities shine through in this track, painting a rich, emotional portrait of resilience and the simple, yet profound, aspects of daily routines.
16. “Magic Pie” by Oasis
“Magic Pie” by Oasis holds a unique place within the band’s discography, combining ambitious musical arrangements with Noel Gallagher’s introspective lyrics. This track showcases Oasis’s deft blend of rock and psychedelia, reflecting on themes of fame and personal autonomy, and highlighting the band’s knack for crafting songs with deep emotional and philosophical undercurrents.
17. “Porcupine Pie” by Neil Diamond
“Porcupine Pie” by Neil Diamond dives into the artist’s playful and whimsical side, featuring lighthearted lyrics that spark the imagination. This track exemplifies Diamond’s ability to create catchy, memorable songs that don’t take themselves too seriously, offering listeners a delightful escape into a world of whimsy and fun.
18. “Savoy Truffle” by The Beatles
“Savoy Truffle” by The Beatles, penned by George Harrison, serves as a quirky commentary on the allure of sweets, with pie and other confections taking center stage. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm highlight Harrison’s wit and creativity, making it a memorable piece that humorously addresses the consequences of indulgence.
19. “Devil’s Pie” by D’Angelo
“Devil’s Pie” by D’Angelo delves into profound social and spiritual themes, making it a standout neo-soul masterpiece. Through its compelling lyrics and rich, layered sounds, the track critiques materialism and moral decay, showcasing D’Angelo’s deep contemplation on the human condition and the choices we face.
