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Surprisingly, there are many songs across a wide range of genres that contain a profession in the title and have been fan favorites for decades. Whether it be referring to the literal profession or an iteration related to it, a lot of these songs have become hits that are still being enjoyed to this day.
Moreover, many of these songs speak on political and societal subjects of their time. This article will cover ten excellent songs spanning across many eras of great music from alternative, indie, classic rock, and more.
So without further ado, here is my list of the best songs with a profession in the title!
1. The Beatles – Doctor Robert
As ionic of an influence as The Beatles are, their song “Doctor Robert” garnered recognition for several reasons. Aside from its upbeat and danceable instrumental, the track is known for its various drug references.
The title “Doctor Robert” made many speculate if this was a real person or simply a reference to drug imagery. Nevertheless, aside from the lyrical content, The Beatles added another hit to their discography in addition to another favorite for their fans.
2. The Who – Bell Boy
Included in their album Quadrophenia, The Who’s song “Bell Boy” became a long-standing staple. Possibly due to the song’s history, the album containing the song has the same name as a movie that was released in the same year.
Aside from that note, The Who delivers their signature sound as always, with stellar drum production and the energy that Roger Daltrey’s vocals provide. I feel the record brings a feeling of reflection of a past life in addition to pity pertaining to the “Bell Boy” described in the song.
3. Bob Marley – Buffalo Soldier
Clearly, he’s an artist and cultural icon whose music has rippled throughout time loved by many generations. Bob Marley is a legend in his own right, and his song “Buffalo Soldier” had a profound impact when it was released, as much of his other music did too.
Many active troops and veterans were very receptive to the song’s lyrics as this was quite relevant of a topic during this era. Marley’s classic and noticeable reggae style carries throughout the whole song, encapsulating his message as it usually does.
4. The Rolling Stones – Dear Doctor
With somewhat of a country take on production, Rolling Stones intentionally wanted to encapsulate older forms of music for “Dear Doctor.” It’s also known that although the song has humorous elements, the band studied many different styles of music to branch out for this record.
Surprisingly, the song was well-received, and it contains many melodies that are sweet to the ear in contrast to some of The Rolling Stones’ heavier music. Most notably, a wobbling harmonica plays throughout the song providing the perfect backing.
5. Van Halen – Hot For Teacher
Considering the raw power displayed in their production, the break-neck speed of Van Halen’s “Hot For Teacher” is one of the best songs with a profession in the title. The lyrics follow the Van Halen style saying exactly what they mean with a blend of raw vocals and nonchalant comments throughout the song.
The song blesses you with guitar solos, erratic drum patterns, and the energy they’re known for. Moreover, Van Halen knows how to build a song up as it starts with a rocking drum solo before anything else, leaving you eager for the rest.
6. Coldplay – The Scientist
For many years, Coldplay has been the cause of some memorable memories that tap into a nostalgia you forgot you had. Calming vocals encapsulate a soothing message in “The Scientist,” speaking on feelings many individuals can relate to.
A soft drum kit carries the melodies throughout the whole track with variations in piano, acoustic guitar, and string accompaniments. Furthermore, this song is one of the most recognized out of their second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head, and garnered even more attention for the band.
7. Paul McCartney – Temporary Secretary
A song with an interesting direction in production, “Temporary Secretary,” starts off with a somewhat off-tune synth arpeggiator combined with a very simplistic drum pattern. Paul McCartney has a pretty signature voice, and it’s evident this track was intended to get stuck in your head.
Released in 1980, the production value isn’t far off from a lot of other music at the time. It wasn’t uncommon to hear funky music experimenting with all kinds of synthesizers.
8. The White Stripes – Hello Operator
Released in 2000, The White Stripes have been loved by many ever since they appeared in the music scene. “Hello Operator” brings head rocking guitar chords with gritty amplifiers and plenty of open hat clashes to compliment.
The filter used on the vocals in the song is reminiscent of past generations while still delivering The White Stripes signature style. Filled with many surprisingly enticing melodies, the song became a fan favorite soon after its release and became one of the band’s most replayed songs.
9. Cream – Politician
Quite unique in many ways, “Politician” from the band Cream is primarily known for its message in the lyrics. The instrumental is interpreted from various angles but could represent the catastrophes that politics have caused over the years of American history and the rest of the world.
Interestingly, the guitar solos included in this song could represent the confusion and disagreements between political parties. Furthermore, it could be said the melodies also show how many politicians refuse to find a middle ground with each other and their citizens.
10. Eric Clapton – I Shot The Sheriff
Included in his album 461 Ocean Boulevard, “I Shot The Sheriff” is actually a cover of Bob Marley’s record with the same title. Nevertheless, Clapton brings his production value all the way through with calming vocals and a whole vibe of an instrumental.
Eric’s lofty vocals make this one of his best songs, in addition to the influence from Bob Marley. The instrumental has a consistent guitar melody and includes added piano and organ riffs for a nice flair to switch up the instrumental.
That concludes my list of the best songs with a profession in the title!
If you enjoyed my article let me know in the comments section below.
Alexandra loves playing the piano and guitar. She has always been a music lover, but it wasn’t until she was in high school that she realized how much she loved to play. It allowed her to express herself without having to be verbally expressive, which is something she found very empowering.