People partying while listening to live music

The 18 Best Songs To Listen To When You're Drinking

August 12 2022

Alcohol and music go well together, like Coke and Jack Daniels. The best songs to listen to while drinking alcohol are those that you can't help but sing along to, whether you know the words or not. You'll find yourself swaying your head, tapping your foot, and clapping your hands to the beat.

The truth is, there is no "right" answer when it comes to choosing the perfect drinking soundtrack. That being said, we have put together a list of the 18 best drinking songs. Whether you're out at a bar with your friends or just relaxing at home after a long day, these songs will help get you in the mood for some serious partying!

Listen to this Playlist

1. Gin and Juice by Snoop Dogg

This iconic hip-hop star has sold over 37 million albums worldwide. If there's one thing that Snoop Dogg knows how to do, it's to party. And what goes hand-in-hand with partying? Drinking, of course! So it only makes sense that one of his most iconic songs is all about getting lit.

"Gin and Juice" is the perfect song to jam out to when you're ready to let loose and have a good time. Plus, its easy-listening tune makes for a good drinking game. The lyrics also look forward to having fun while providing you with upbeat music that will have you singing along in no time.

2. Cheers (Drink to That) by Rihanna

There's no denying that Rihanna is one of the top performers in the world. She is the youngest artist to have 10 number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Cheers” is the perfect anthem for drinking and enjoying life. The lyrics are all about celebrating and having a good time, which is exactly what you should be doing. Rihanna's voice is so catchy and upbeat that it instantly gets you in the party mood. If you're looking for a song to get you pumped up for a night of drinking, this is it!

3. Cigarettes and Alcohol by Oasis

Oasis became popular during the 'Britpop' era of the 1990s and has sold over 50 million albums worldwide.

“Cigarettes and Alcohol” is about the working class's struggles and the escape from the monotony of life through common vices. The lyrics are relatable because they accurately describe how people feel when they have nothing to live for except their jobs. It's catchy as hell; the perfect sing-along for when you're drunk.

4. Drunk Girls by LCD Soundsystem

LCD Soundsystem's music is best described as a blend of post-punk, alternative dance, and funk music.

The meaning of the song "Drunk Girls" is pretty straightforward - it's about, well, drunk girls. The song is a bit of an ode to debauchery and celebrating being young and carefree. The lyrics paint a picture of a wild night out, full of dancing and drinking.

5. Brass Monkey by Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys are known for their increasingly daring and acclaimed hip-hop music. According to an interview, the band's name is an acronym for "Boys Entering Anarchic States Towards Internal Excellence."

The subject of this song is an alcoholic beverage called Brass Monkey, a concoction of rum, vodka, and orange juice served over ice. The Beastie Boys tell a story of going to a bar and starting to drink, then getting too rowdy. The song is lighthearted and funny, making it perfect for listening to when you're enjoying a few drinks.

6. Drunk in Love by Beyoncé

Beyoncé's albums have always been a melting pot of seductive music and sensual lyrics. And there's no question that "Drunk in Love" is one of the most popular songs to listen to when you're drinking.

This is another great track about, well, being drunk in love. It's a sexy, slow jam that will get you in the mood for some fun. The lyrics are pretty NSFW, so be warned if you're listening to this one in public. But hey, what happens when you're drunk doesn't always stay in your head, right?

7. Drink You Away by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake has succeeded in various music genres, such as pop and R&B. “Drink You Away” is a smooth and soulful track with funky chord progressions.

This song is about trying to drown your sorrows in alcohol and how it never really helps in the long run. The lyrics are pretty sad, but the beat is catchy and lively. It's a great song to listen to when you're drinking because it will make you feel all sorts of emotions at the same time.

8. Swimming Pools by Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar is a very talented rapper, and this song proves that. “Swimming Pools” is a metaphor for alcoholism and its related buoyancy due to being deeply absorbed in the substance.

If you're looking for a good song to listen to when you're drinking, this is definitely one of the best. The beat flows effortlessly through most of the song's lines, and the chorus is memorable for its powerful message.

9. Shots by LMFAO ft. Lil Jon

LMFAO is an electronic music duo of Redfoo and Sky Blu. The group is best known for their hit songs “Party Rock Anthem” and “Sexy and I Know It.”

If you're looking for a tune to get you drunk and dancing, look no further than “Shots.” It is a fast-paced track about partying with only good vibes in every moment of getting wasted. The song has a hard rock sound, perfect for when you're pre-gaming for a night out on the town.

10. Tipsy by J Kwon

J Kwon is best known for his 2004 hit single “Tipsy,” which peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

This song is the perfect anthem for anyone who's ever had a drink or two (or three) too many. The catchy chorus will have you singing along at the top of your lungs, and you'll be sure to remember all the words the next day.

11. Bartender by T Pain ft. Akon

T Pain was known for using creative auto-tune pitch to produce unique vocal sounds, which became popular throughout his career.

We all know the feeling of being at the bar, looking for someone to take our drink order. The bartender always seems so busy, and we just want them to hurry up so we can get our alcohol fix. “Bartender” speaks to this universal desire. The lyrics talk about how the narrator is at a club, trying to get the bartender's attention. This song is catchy and will get you moving on the dance floor.

12. Raise Your Glass by Pink

Pink rose to prominence with her album, Missundaztood (2001). The record sold more than 13 million copies worldwide and yielded the international chart-topping singles “Get the Party Started,” “Don't Let Me Get Me,” and “Just Like a Pill.”

Yes, “Raise Your Glass” is pretty on the nose for what we're talking about here. But who doesn't love a good anthem to raise their glass to? The perfect song to listen to when you're downing shots with your friends or chugging beers at a party. And if you're not careful, you might just find yourself singing along at the top of your lungs!

13. Habits (Stay High) by Tove Lo

Tove Lo understands what it's like to party hard and let loose. Her songs are relatable, and her lyrics are honest. Additionally, she has a unique sound that sets her apart from other artists in the pop genre.

If you want a song that will get you pumped to drink, this is the one for you. The beat is infectious, and with its catchy chorus of "high all the time to keep you off my mind," you'll surely have this one stuck in your head all night long.

14. Champagne Problems by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is one of the successful artists in the music industry because of her numerous Grammy wins and platinum albums. She wrote her debut single “Tim McGraw” in just 20 minutes, reaching No. 6 on the Hot Country Songs chart.

“Champagne Problems” tells a story of a couple dealing with the disappointment of a failed proposal. It concludes with the singer hoping her ex will find "the real thing." The song has a youthful and lighthearted sound that's easy to listen to while hanging out at the bar or slowly dancing on the dance floor.

15. I Drink Wine by Adele

Adele is best known for her powerful voice, soulful ballads, and heart-wrenching lyrics. She has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, and her album 21 is one of the bestselling albums of all time.

If you're looking for a drinking song to help you get through a tough time, this gorgeous power ballad is the best track you can listen to! The lyrics are honest and raw, and they have the ability to touch everyone who hears them.

16. Wow by Post Malone

Post Malone is well-known for his rap and diverse vocal styles. He has received praise for fusing hip hop, pop, R&B, and trap genres into unique sounds.

“Wow” is about being happy and content with what you have in life. The song is great for listening to when you're drinking because it will put you in a good mood and make you appreciate all the good things. Cheers to the artist for creating such a feel-good anthem!

17. Get Lucky by Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers

There's no doubt that Daft Punk is one of the most influential electronic music groups of all time. The French duo has been responsible for some of the genre's most iconic tracks, and their unique blend of house, techno, and disco has inspired countless other artists.

“Get Lucky” is about a man who is trying to seduce a woman. The song has a very catchy tune with naughty lyrics that will surely get you in the mood for some fun and make you want to dance.

18. I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston is a legendary figure in the music industry, and her voice is truly unique. But one of the main reasons she is so famous is her timeless songs.

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is a classic party song that always gets people moving and makes you feel good about yourself. It's the perfect tune to listen to when you're trying to forget your troubles and just have a good time. The only downside is that it's so catchy that you might find yourself singing it all the way into next week.

Things to Consider When Choosing Songs for Drinking

Select the Best Genre

Many music genres, such as country, hip hop, and rock, are popular for drinking. Each genre has its unique style and sound, making it more or less enjoyable to drink to.

“If I am at a speak-easy bar that serves craft cocktails and prohibition-era drinks, I would likely go for lo-fi beats that remix old 1920s jazz tunes,” says Courtney Smith, owner of Chesapeake Bartenders.

“If I am making margaritas and daiquiris at a dock sidebar, guests likely want to hear Jimmy Buffett, Jack Johnson, etc., because it is a compliment to the atmosphere. Each bar has its unique demographic, style, and vibe, so the music should complement it,” she further explains.

Listen to the Lyrics

Many times, the words of a song can be more important than the melody. Look for songs with positive or light-hearted lyrics that will put you in a good mood. To get people pumped up and rowdy, you need anthems with upbeat energy.

Artist Performance

The number of ways to select the best drinking songs is nearly endless. However, many people focus on two key criteria: the quality of the artist's performance and the song's ability to get people moving and partying.

When choosing the best drinking songs, live performances are often considered more important than studio recordings. This is because live performances have a more raw and powerful energy that can get people excited. Furthermore, live performances tend to be more memorable and special than studio recordings.

How to Choose the Best Songs for Drinking

Group of friends singing along with bar music

Make a list of your favorite songs.
Ask your friends for their favorite drinking songs.
Make sure the song is upbeat and makes you want to drink.
Choose a song that everyone knows and can sing along to.
Find a drinking song that has meaning to you and your friends.
Pick a song that will get everyone dancing.
Choose a classic drinking song that never gets old.
Find a new drinking song that is just starting to become popular.
Make sure the lyrics of the song are appropriate for your party.
Have fun and enjoy your favorite drinking songs with your friends!

Best Drinking Songs FAQ

What is the number one drinking song?

The answer may depend on who you ask, but there are definitely some songs that come to mind when thinking about the best tunes to drink to. Whether you're looking for something to get the party started or just want a little background music while enjoying a cold one, the 18 tracks above should do the trick.

What music makes you drink more?

According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, listening to music with a fast tempo and heavy bass evokes happiness and excitement. This factor may lead people to drink more, or it can be used to promote alcohol consumption.

What is a song about drinking?

One good example of a drinking song is “One Bourbon, one Scotch, One Beer” by George Thorogood & The Destroyers.

The track is about a man trying to drink away his troubles. He starts with bourbon, then moves on to scotch, and finally beer. It's a pretty straightforward song and has become a bit of a party anthem that is definitely fun to drink to.

Conclusion

Sometimes we need more than just the company of our friends; we need the company of good music! So whether you’re at the pub or just unwinding after a long day, make sure you have one of these tracks cued up and ready to go.

Do you have a favorite drinking song? Let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this post with your friends so they can add some new tunes to their party playlist.