Cats have captivated humans for centuries, inspiring stories, art, and music worldwide. Songs About Cats aren’t just a Western trend; they appear across various cultures, each interpreting cats’ unique characteristics through their own musical traditions. From playful folk songs to symbolic classical pieces, these songs reflect the diversity of cat symbolism and appreciation around the globe. In this post, we’ll explore some unique cat songs from different cultures and how they showcase the universal appeal of these mysterious, beloved animals.
In Japan, Neko Funjatta (“I Stepped on the Cat”) is a playful and catchy piano piece known to nearly every child. The song’s melody mimics the lighthearted humor of accidentally stepping on a cat’s tail, with the cat responding with an indignant “meow.” This piece is often used in music lessons for young pianists and is beloved for its simple but memorable tune.
Lyrics Highlight (English translation):
I stepped on the cat, stepped on the cat
It cried, "Meow, meow, meow," I stepped on the cat
The song’s melody is both lively and repetitive, perfect for children’s piano practice. Neko Funjatta is a staple in Japanese children’s music, celebrating the quirky, humorous side of cats while offering young musicians a fun way to develop their skills.
Ancient Egypt is one of the oldest known cultures to revere cats, and their hymns and chants in honor of the goddess Bastet reflect this deep admiration. Bastet, often depicted with the head of a lioness or domestic cat, was the goddess of home, fertility, and protection. While the exact lyrics and melodies of these hymns are lost, Egyptian records show that the music dedicated to Bastet was celebratory and rhythmic, featuring drums, sistrums (a type of ancient rattle), and flutes.
Bastet’s association with protection and family meant that these hymns celebrated cats’ presence in homes, symbolizing safety and prosperity. Though not a “song” in the modern sense, these hymns are among the oldest Songs About Cats, emphasizing cats’ importance in Egyptian culture and their connection to the divine.
In 19th-century Paris, the cabaret Le Chat Noir (The Black Cat) became famous not only for its art and entertainment but also for its iconic song of the same name. Le Chat Noir was performed in the cabaret’s early years and became symbolic of Parisian bohemian culture, representing independence, mystery, and a slightly rebellious nature—qualities that cats embody.
The lyrics and melody of Le Chat Noir reflect the charm and mystique of a black cat wandering through Montmartre’s lively, artistic neighborhood. This song epitomizes the bohemian spirit of Paris and the intrigue of cats, making it a cherished part of French cultural history. The term “black cat” itself came to symbolize the mysterious and unpredictable, adding a layer of allure to the feline in French folklore and art.
Barış Manço, one of Turkey’s most beloved musicians, created Kedi (“Cat”) as an ode to Istanbul’s street cats. Istanbul is famously known for its vast cat population, with these animals integrated into the daily lives of the city’s residents. In Kedi, Manço captures the unique charm of Turkish street cats, showcasing them as independent and free-spirited companions to the people of Istanbul.
Lyrics Highlight (English translation):
Who knows where you're wandering
In the streets of Istanbul
Your eyes are wild, your tail’s in the air
You’re free as the wind and stray as can be
The song’s folk-rock style mirrors the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Istanbul and the resilience of its street cats. Kedi resonates deeply with Turkish listeners, who often see cats as symbols of freedom and resilience. This unique Cat Song is a tribute to the independent spirit of Istanbul’s cats and the special place they hold in Turkish culture.
A classic American folk song, The Cat Came Back was written in 1893 by Harry S. Miller and has since become a beloved children’s song. It tells the story of a cat who refuses to leave, despite its owner’s repeated attempts to get rid of it. The humorous lyrics and repetitive melody make it a fun song for all ages, capturing the resilient and persistent nature of cats.
Lyrics Highlight:
The cat came back, the very next day
The cat came back, we thought he was a goner
But the cat came back, he just couldn’t stay away
This song has been adapted into various versions over the years, even animated cartoons, and remains a favorite in American children’s music. The Cat Came Back embodies the humor and persistence often associated with cats, making it a lasting piece in the world of Cat Songs.
“El Gato Viudo” (“The Widowed Cat”) by Chava Flores is a humorous Mexican folk song about a male cat who becomes heartbroken after losing his mate. Flores, known for his satirical lyrics, uses the song to tell a comedic story that captures the emotions of love and loss with a lighthearted tone.
Lyrics Highlight (English translation):
My poor kitty cat, now all alone
Wanders the streets looking for his love
But alas, she is gone, his spirit torn
El Gato Viudo combines humor with traditional Mexican musical rhythms, creating a song that resonates with listeners and showcases cats’ romantic and sometimes sentimental nature. The song’s lighthearted yet expressive lyrics have made it a beloved folk tune in Mexico, reflecting the charm of Mexican storytelling and the playful spirit of cats.
Duetto Buffo di Due Gatti (Comic Duet for Two Cats) is a humorous classical piece often attributed to Italian composer Gioachino Rossini. Composed in the 19th century, this duet features two vocalists who sing only the word “meow,” imitating the sounds of two cats in a humorous interaction.
The playful back-and-forth between the two “cats” creates a comedic atmosphere, with the singers mimicking feline behavior through their intonations and dynamics. Often performed as an encore in opera concerts, this piece is a lighthearted example of classical music’s take on Songs About Cats, capturing the quirky, endearing side of feline interactions.
In Russia, Kot Matroskin is a beloved animated cat character from the Soviet-era cartoon Three from Prostokvashino. Known for his practical, sometimes sarcastic personality, Matroskin became famous for his song, which highlights his self-sufficiency and wit. The song, with its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, has become an iconic part of Russian children’s culture.
Lyrics Highlight (English translation):
I’m a cat of reason, calm and wise
I have nine lives and a clever disguise
I live by my own rules, free and bold
The song’s playful lyrics celebrate Matroskin’s independence and intelligence, qualities that many associate with cats. This song, part of Russian pop culture, captures the charm of feline wisdom and the humor often found in cats’ self-sufficient nature.
In parts of rural India, especially West Bengal, Goddess Shashthi is worshipped as a protector of children and is often depicted with a cat as her vehicle. Devotional songs in her honor sometimes include references to cats as symbols of protection, maternal care, and fertility.
These songs, though devotional, include the cat as a central element, representing a sacred and protective presence. In this cultural context, the cat is more than a pet; it’s a revered animal that embodies the qualities of nurture and guardianship. Such songs highlight the spiritual connection between humans and cats in Indian folklore.
From the hymns of ancient Egypt to the folk songs of Japan and Mexico, Songs About Cats are found in diverse cultures worldwide. These songs celebrate the universal appeal of cats and their many qualities, from their independence and mystery to their humor and charm. Each culture interprets cats in a unique way, using music to capture what makes these animals so beloved.
Whether humorous, sentimental, or spiritual, these cat songs reflect the global fascination with our feline friends, showcasing the different ways people connect with and celebrate cats. As a result, cat songs provide a rich tapestry of cultural expressions, each one adding to our understanding of these enigmatic creatures that continue to captivate us across borders and generations.
