Buttons have been an essential part of our lives for centuries, from the ornate buttons that adorned the clothing of royalty to the humble buttons that hold our coats together.
But buttons aren’t just functional – they can also be a source of inspiration for musicians, who have penned countless songs about them over the years.
In this article, we’ll take a look at five of the best songs about buttons, from Ruth Etting’s classic “Button Up Your Overcoat” to Sugababes’s sensational “Push the Button.”
So button up your shirt, push play on your music player, and let’s dive into the world of button-themed tunes.
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“Button Up Your Overcoat” is more than just a song – it’s a cultural icon that has stood the test of time. With its upbeat melody, playful lyrics, and catchy refrain, this tune has captured the hearts of audiences for nearly a century.
From Ruth Etting’s inaugural performance in 1928 to the Broadway run and subsequent film adaptation, this song has become a staple in the American musical canon.
But it was Helen Kane’s rendition that truly captured the public’s imagination, with her signature Boop Boop a Doop catchphrase inspiring the creation of the beloved cartoon character Betty Boop. Today, “Button Up Your Overcoat” remains a beloved classic, a reminder of a bygone era that continues to enchant audiences young and old.
So go ahead and button up your overcoat, and let this timeless tune carry you away on a journey through the golden age of music.
“Push the Button” by Sugababes is a sensational electropop and R&B song that will have you dancing and singing along in no time. The lyrics, co-written by the band and Dallas Austin, are catchy and relatable, inspired by Keisha Buchanan’s infatuation with another artist.
The computer effects and upbeat tempo make for an infectious tune that earned the single rave reviews from critics. It’s no surprise that “Push the Button” became one of Sugababes’ most commercially successful releases, topping the charts in multiple countries and even earning a Brit Award nomination for Best British Single.
The music video directed by Matthew Rolston is equally captivating, featuring the trio flirting with three men in a lift. The song’s inclusion on the soundtrack for the movie It’s a Boy Girl Thing only adds to its charm.
Overall, “Push the Button” is a fun and memorable track that cemented Sugababes’ status as one of the best pop acts of the 2000s.
“Buttons” is a sultry and catchy pop and R&B track that showcases the Pussycat Dolls’ ability to create a hypnotic and seductive sound. The blend of hip-hop beats, synthesizers, and Middle Eastern rhythm creates a captivating musical tapestry that is impossible to resist.
The group’s plea to a reluctant man to help them undress is provocative and alluring, with the members adopting a submissive stance that adds an extra layer of appeal to the song. The accompanying music video, directed by Francis Lawrence, is a visual treat that pays homage to the group’s burlesque origins.
The various dance sequences are mesmerizing, with the Bollywood-inspired routine towards the end being a standout. It’s no wonder that the video was nominated for two awards at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards and ultimately won the Best Dance Video award.
The addition of Snoop Dogg’s verse in the remix version of the song adds a new dimension of coolness to the already irresistible track. It’s no surprise that “Buttons” has continued to have a lasting impact, even being featured in the popular video game Just Dance 2022.
Overall, “Buttons” is a timeless classic that showcases the Pussycat Dolls’ unique blend of sensuality and musical prowess.
“The Hardest Button to Button” by The White Stripes is a cleverly crafted track that showcases the band’s ability to create infectious and dynamic rock tunes. The song’s lyrics revolve around a child’s struggle to find their place in a changing family dynamic. Jack White’s personal experiences with family dynamics and his broken index finger are apparent in the song’s imagery and style.
The track’s cover art pays homage to the iconic Saul Bass graphics seen in classic films. It is also a nod to Jack White’s obsession with the number three. These small details add depth and meaning to the song’s overall theme.
The music video, directed by Michel Gondry, perfectly captures the song’s energy and creativity. The use of pixilation animation is an excellent visual representation of the song’s catchy rhythm and Jack and Meg White’s raw and powerful performance.
“Buttons and Bows” is a delightful tune that has stood the test of time since its release in 1948.
Written by the dynamic duo Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song was originally intended to have an Indian theme, but it was changed to fit the Bob Hope and Jane Russell film The Paleface. And boy, did it fit perfectly!
The song went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and Dinah Shore’s version of the song was a smash hit, holding the number one spot for ten weeks.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody will have you tapping your toes and humming along in no time. It’s no surprise that the song has been reprised in several movies and TV shows over the years.