23 Most Famous Songs About Cigarettes & Coffee (Must Hear)

Songs about cigarettes often delve into the complexities of human emotions, using smoking as a metaphor for love, loss, and introspection. Whether representing addiction, nostalgia, or a fleeting moment of intimacy, cigarettes have a unique presence in music, symbolizing both pleasure and destruction.

Artists across genres have used the imagery of cigarettes to reflect on life’s quiet moments, the chaos of relationships, and the need for escape.

These songs tap into the emotional duality of smoking, creating vivid narratives around one of life’s most iconic habits.

23 Most Popular Old Country Songs About Cigarettes & Alcohol to Add to Your Playlist

This list spans multiple genres, each using the imagery of cigarettes to explore themes of love, addiction, escapism, and introspection.

Here’s a list of 23 songs about cigarettes, where the imagery of smoking, addiction, and introspection often takes center stage:

#1 “Cigarettes and Coffee” by Otis Redding

“Cigarettes and Coffee” by Otis Redding is a soulful, reflective ballad that uses the simple act of sharing a cigarette and a cup of coffee as a moment of intimacy and contemplation. Redding’s deep, emotive voice conveys a sense of longing and emotional depth, as he reflects on love and life in the quiet hours of the night. The cigarette becomes a symbol of reflection, a habit that allows the protagonist to pause and think about the complexities of the relationship.

The song’s slow, mellow rhythm perfectly matches the mood of late-night reflection, making “Cigarettes and Coffee” not just a song about smoking, but a soulful meditation on connection and quiet moments of truth.

#2 “Cigarette Daydreams” by Cage the Elephant

“Cigarette Daydreams” by Cage the Elephant is a bittersweet indie rock track that explores themes of nostalgia, regret, and the longing for escape. The cigarette here symbolizes a moment of contemplation, a brief respite from the emotional chaos surrounding the protagonist. The lyrics reflect on lost love and dreams that seem to drift away like cigarette smoke, capturing the fleeting nature of life and the desire to hold on to moments that have passed.

With its soft, acoustic melody and introspective lyrics, “Cigarette Daydreams” resonates with anyone who’s felt the pull of nostalgia while trying to make sense of a relationship that didn’t turn out as expected. The cigarette becomes a metaphor for both reflection and escapism.

#3 “Cigarettes Will Kill You” by Ben Lee

“Cigarettes Will Kill You” by Ben Lee is a poignant, melancholic song that draws a parallel between the dangers of smoking and the toxic nature of certain relationships. Lee uses cigarettes as a metaphor for self-destructive behavior, where both addiction and love can become harmful if they’re not managed carefully. The song’s simple guitar chords and haunting vocals emphasize the protagonist’s awareness of the damage being done but his inability to stop.

The repeated refrain, “Cigarettes will kill you,” becomes a mantra of sorts, reminding the listener of the slow, inevitable consequences of toxic choices. This track is both a warning and a reflection on the difficulty of breaking away from harmful habits and relationships.

#4 “Smoke Break” by Carrie Underwood

“Smoke Break” by Carrie Underwood is a country anthem that speaks to the pressures of life and the need for a momentary escape. Underwood’s protagonist doesn’t necessarily smoke, but the idea of taking a “smoke break” symbolizes stepping away from life’s demands and stresses. The song tells the story of everyday people—working hard, facing challenges—who long for a moment of peace and indulgence, whether it’s a smoke, a drink, or a pause.

With its upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics, “Smoke Break” captures the universal desire to take a breather from the responsibilities and pressures that weigh us down. The cigarette here becomes a stand-in for any small escape that offers temporary relief.

#5 “Nicotine” by Panic! At The Disco

“Nicotine” by Panic! At The Disco is a high-energy, pop-rock song that uses the metaphor of nicotine addiction to describe a toxic relationship. Lead singer Brendon Urie’s dynamic vocals and the song’s fast-paced beat create a sense of urgency, as he describes the difficulty of breaking away from a love that feels as addictive and harmful as nicotine. The lyrics depict the push-and-pull dynamic of the relationship, where the protagonist is both drawn to and repelled by the lover who’s causing him pain.

“Nicotine” perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of desire and destruction, where love is as intoxicating and dangerous as a bad habit that’s hard to quit.

#6 “Cigarette” by Mariah Carey

“Cigarette” by Mariah Carey is a sultry, emotionally charged song that uses cigarettes as a metaphor for temptation and self-sabotage in love. Carey’s smooth R&B vocals glide over the seductive melody as she sings about a lover who’s bad for her, yet irresistible, much like the allure of a cigarette. The cigarette becomes a symbol of indulgence and regret, something that provides momentary satisfaction but leaves behind lasting consequences.

The song’s sensual tone and evocative lyrics create an atmosphere of desire and tension, with the cigarette representing the internal conflict between wanting something harmful and knowing it’s not good in the long run. “Cigarette” is a powerful reflection on love, temptation, and self-control.

#7 “Two Cigarettes in the Dark” by Bing Crosby

“Two Cigarettes in the Dark” by Bing Crosby is a nostalgic, classic ballad that captures the intimate and melancholic moments shared between two people over a quiet cigarette. Crosby’s smooth vocals create a romantic yet bittersweet atmosphere, with the act of lighting two cigarettes symbolizing closeness and connection. However, as the song unfolds, it becomes clear that the relationship is marked by a sense of emotional distance, as the cigarettes burn down just like the passion between them.

The song’s timeless melody and evocative imagery make it a powerful exploration of fleeting moments in love. The cigarettes here symbolize both intimacy and the slow fading of something once special, adding a layer of depth to the sentimental track.

#8 “Cigarettes & Alcohol” by Oasis

“Cigarettes & Alcohol” by Oasis is a raw, unapologetic Britpop anthem that explores the hedonistic side of life. The song’s gritty guitars and Liam Gallagher’s unmistakable vocals create a rebellious, carefree energy, with cigarettes and alcohol serving as symbols of escapism from the monotony of everyday life. The lyrics reflect the feeling of being stuck in a routine, with the protagonist finding solace in indulgence and temporary pleasures.

The track speaks to a generation searching for meaning through immediate gratification, where smoking and drinking become the temporary fixes for boredom and frustration. “Cigarettes & Alcohol” is a celebration of living in the moment, even if it means embracing life’s vices.

#9 “Smoking Gun” by Robert Cray

“Smoking Gun” by Robert Cray is a bluesy track that uses the image of a smoking gun to symbolize guilt, betrayal, and the aftermath of a relationship gone wrong. The “smoking gun” becomes a metaphor for the undeniable evidence of wrongdoing, whether it’s infidelity or emotional betrayal. Cray’s soulful guitar riffs and smooth vocals add to the tension of the song, creating an atmosphere of confrontation and regret.

As the story unfolds, the smoking gun represents the irreversible damage that’s been done, leaving the protagonist to face the consequences of their actions. The song’s powerful imagery and emotional depth make “Smoking Gun” a compelling reflection on guilt and the price of betrayal.

#10 “Cigarette” by Yellowcard

“Cigarette” by Yellowcard is a punk-tinged rock song that reflects on the bittersweet memories associated with a past relationship. The cigarette in the song serves as a symbol of fleeting moments and the lingering feelings that remain long after the relationship has ended. With its fast-paced rhythm and emotional lyrics, “Cigarette” captures the sense of regret and nostalgia that often comes with looking back on a love that didn’t last.

The cigarette becomes a metaphor for something that burns brightly but fades quickly, leaving behind only ashes and memories. Yellowcard’s energetic delivery adds a sense of urgency to the track, making it a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time.

#11 “Smoke Two Joints” by Sublime

“Smoke Two Joints” by Sublime is a laid-back, reggae-inspired track that blends humor with the theme of indulgence. The song tells the story of someone who smokes two joints in the morning, at noon, and at night, using marijuana and cigarettes as a way to cope with life’s stresses. The repetitive chorus and relaxed rhythm create a carefree vibe, celebrating the act of smoking as a form of escape and relaxation.

While the song is playful in tone, it also touches on the idea of using substances as a way to manage daily life’s pressures. “Smoke Two Joints” has become an anthem for those who embrace the laid-back lifestyle, making it a fun, lighthearted track about cigarettes and escapism.

#12 “Cigarette Smoke” by Arctic Monkeys

“Cigarette Smoke” by Arctic Monkeys is a moody, introspective song that uses cigarette smoke as a metaphor for the haziness and confusion of a troubled relationship. The lyrics reflect on the fleeting nature of love, with cigarette smoke representing the unclear and temporary emotions that come and go. Alex Turner’s distinct vocals and the band’s atmospheric sound create a sense of detachment, as the protagonist contemplates the emotional fog surrounding the relationship.

The cigarette smoke becomes a symbol of the intangible, elusive feelings that are difficult to grasp, adding depth to the song’s introspective tone. “Cigarette Smoke” captures the ambiguity and uncertainty that often accompanies love in its more fragile moments.

#13 “Ashtray Heart” by Placebo

“Ashtray Heart” by Placebo is a dark, intense rock track that uses the imagery of cigarette butts and ashtrays to symbolize the aftermath of a toxic relationship. The lyrics describe a heart that’s been discarded and damaged, much like cigarette butts left in an ashtray after they’ve served their purpose. Brian Molko’s haunting vocals and the band’s aggressive instrumentals create a visceral sense of emotional destruction, with the ashtray heart representing the remnants of love that’s been used up and thrown away.

The song’s heavy, grungy sound amplifies the pain and anger of being left with nothing but emotional ashes. “Ashtray Heart” is a raw, powerful depiction of love that burns out and leaves only destruction behind.

#14 “Cigarette” by Rilo Kiley

“Cigarette” by Rilo Kiley is a quiet, contemplative song that uses smoking as a metaphor for fleeting relationships and moments of introspection. The lyrics reflect on the brevity of life’s connections, with the cigarette serving as a symbol of the temporary nature of both love and time. Jenny Lewis’ soft, melancholy vocals add a layer of vulnerability to the track, as she contemplates the passing of time and the emotional scars left behind.

The cigarette in the song becomes a symbol of moments that burn brightly but don’t last, leaving behind a sense of loss and reflection. “Cigarette” is a subtle, introspective song about love, regret, and the things we can’t hold onto.

#15 “Cigarettes and Her” by Tom Waits

“Cigarettes and Her” by Tom Waits is a smoky, gravelly ballad that pairs the imagery of cigarettes with memories of a lost love. Waits’ distinctive voice and jazz-inspired arrangement create a moody atmosphere, where the act of smoking becomes intertwined with feelings of longing and melancholy. The song paints a picture of late-night solitude, where cigarettes are the only companion as the protagonist reflects on a past relationship.

The cigarettes in the song symbolize both comfort and self-destruction, as the protagonist uses them to cope with the emotional weight of loss. “Cigarettes and Her” is a deeply atmospheric track that captures the loneliness and introspection that often come with heartbreak.

#16 “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” by The Platters

“Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” by The Platters is a classic ballad that uses cigarette smoke as a metaphor for love and heartbreak. The song’s tender lyrics express how love can be blinding and confusing, much like the way smoke clouds your vision. The protagonist reflects on the emotional haze of falling in love and the painful aftermath when that love fades, leaving them heartbroken and disillusioned.

The song’s haunting melody and The Platters’ soulful harmonies add to the emotional depth of the track. The cigarette smoke represents the fleeting nature of love, and as it dissipates, so too does the illusion of a perfect romance, leaving only sadness in its wake.

#17 “Smoking on the Balcony” by Mø

“Smoking on the Balcony” by Mø is a mellow, reflective track that captures a moment of solitude and contemplation. The imagery of smoking on a balcony serves as a metaphor for a quiet pause from the chaos of life, offering a brief escape from reality. The song’s laid-back, atmospheric sound mirrors the act of watching the world go by from above, as the protagonist reflects on love, life, and the passage of time.

The cigarette becomes a symbol of both introspection and detachment, a way to step back and process emotions in the stillness of the moment. Mø’s soothing vocals and dreamy production make “Smoking on the Balcony” a thoughtful exploration of personal reflection.

#18 “Cigarettes & Cush” by Stormzy feat. Kehlani

“Cigarettes & Cush” by Stormzy featuring Kehlani is a smooth, R&B-infused track that uses the act of smoking as a backdrop for a complicated love story. The song explores the intimacy and tension between two lovers, with cigarettes and marijuana symbolizing the emotional highs and lows they experience together. Stormzy’s deep, laid-back flow and Kehlani’s sensual vocals create an atmosphere of both passion and conflict.

The track delves into the complexities of love, where moments of closeness are often followed by emotional distance. The cigarette smoke becomes a metaphor for the fleeting nature of these intimate moments, dissipating as quickly as they appear. “Cigarettes & Cush” captures the delicate balance between desire and emotional uncertainty.

#19 “Cigarettes” by Russian Red

“Cigarettes” by Russian Red is a delicate indie song that reflects on the routine and emotional comfort tied to smoking. The song’s soft acoustic melody and introspective lyrics explore the quiet moments in life when cigarettes become a source of solace or reflection. Russian Red’s gentle vocals create an intimate atmosphere, where smoking serves as both a metaphor for coping and a companion during times of solitude.

The cigarette in this song is more than just a habit—it’s a symbol of the small rituals that help us navigate our emotions. “Cigarettes” beautifully captures the melancholy that often accompanies those quiet, reflective moments, where something as simple as a cigarette holds deeper meaning.

#20 “Last Cigarette” by Bon Jovi

“Last Cigarette” by Bon Jovi is a rock song about the final moments of a crumbling relationship, with the last cigarette serving as a metaphor for the end of love. The lyrics describe the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye, where the last cigarette represents the final connection between two people before they part ways. Bon Jovi’s signature rock sound, combined with the emotional weight of the lyrics, makes for a powerful track about closure.

The cigarette here is symbolic of the last shared moment before everything fades away, capturing the melancholy of endings and the lingering memories that remain. “Last Cigarette” is a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the finality of relationships.

#21 “Cigarettes and Wine” by Jason Isbell

“Cigarettes and Wine” by Jason Isbell is a country-rock song that pairs the imagery of smoking and drinking with feelings of heartache and longing. The song’s protagonist uses cigarettes and wine as a way to cope with the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship, finding solace in these simple vices. Isbell’s raw, honest lyrics capture the sense of loss and reflection that often comes with love’s end, while the cigarettes and wine symbolize the small comforts that help ease the pain.

The song’s gentle melody and introspective tone make it a heartfelt exploration of coping with heartache, where cigarettes become a way to process the emotional weight of the past.

#22 “Nicotina” by Los Piojos

“Nicotina” by Los Piojos is a Spanish-language rock song that uses nicotine addiction as a metaphor for personal struggles and emotional dependency. The lyrics explore the protagonist’s battle with addiction, both to nicotine and to the emotional baggage that comes with toxic relationships. The song’s gritty guitar riffs and powerful vocals add to the intensity, reflecting the inner turmoil of trying to break free from destructive habits.

In “Nicotina,” cigarettes serve as a symbol of the protagonist’s inability to escape the cycle of addiction and emotional pain. The track’s raw energy and emotional depth make it a compelling portrayal of the darker side of dependency, both physical and emotional.

#23 “Cigarettes and Violets” by The Clash

“Cigarettes and Violets” by The Clash is a punk track that contrasts the harshness of cigarettes with the softness of violets, symbolizing the conflict between love and destruction. The song’s fast-paced rhythm and rebellious energy capture the tension between the two opposing forces, with cigarettes representing the reckless, self-destructive side of love. The violets, in contrast, symbolize tenderness and beauty, highlighting the complexity of emotions within the relationship.

The cigarette imagery emphasizes the chaotic, fleeting nature of toxic love, where moments of beauty are often overshadowed by self-destructive behavior. “Cigarettes and Violets” is a powerful exploration of love’s contradictions, with The Clash’s signature punk sound adding to its intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do so many songs use cigarettes as a metaphor?

Cigarettes are often used as a metaphor because they represent both pleasure and self-destruction, symbolizing emotional complexities like addiction, nostalgia, and intimacy. Their duality makes them a powerful symbol in songs about love, heartache, and reflection.

What genres commonly feature songs about cigarettes?

Genres like rock, blues, country, and indie frequently feature songs about cigarettes. These genres often explore themes of longing, rebellion, and emotional struggle, where cigarettes serve as a relatable, symbolic image.

Do songs about cigarettes glorify smoking?

Not necessarily. While some songs use cigarettes to evoke nostalgia or create a certain mood, many also acknowledge the destructive nature of smoking, using it as a metaphor for unhealthy habits or toxic relationships.

How are cigarettes linked to emotions in songs?

Cigarettes in songs often symbolize moments of reflection, stress relief, or coping with emotional pain. They serve as a backdrop for introspective moments, representing both comfort and harm, depending on the context.