36 Best Songs About Black Cats
Black cats have slinked their way through history as symbols of mystery, magic, and, at times, mischief. Depending on who you ask, they’re either good luck, bad omens, or just downright adorable pets.
It’s no wonder they’ve scratched their way into the world of music too. In music, black cats have been depicted as symbols of allure, independence, and at times, superstition. They’ve been celebrated, adored, and feared.
From rock to indie and jazz, the enigma of black cats has inspired a range of musical pieces.
1. “Black Cat” – Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson, the queen of pop, delivered a roaring anthem in “Black Cat.” Unlike the traditional pop tunes she’s known for, this track edges towards rock.
“Black Cat” is a warning about a bad boy – unpredictable, wild, and possibly dangerous. Metaphorically speaking, it likens the guy to a black cat – mysterious and perhaps unlucky. The song, released in 1989, became one of Janet’s signature hits.
2. “Black Cat Blues” – Bert Jansch
Jansch’s “Black Cat Blues” gives listeners a taste of traditional blues combined with folk. The song uses the black cat as an emblem of bad luck. With its intricate guitar work, it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the depths of folk-blues.
3. “Black Cat” – Black Pumas
Black Pumas bring their distinctive blend of neo-soul and funk into this piece.
4. “Black Cat” – Luback
With Luback’s “Black Cat,” listeners are treated to a soulful mix of folk vibes and heartfelt lyrics.
5. “Black Cat Woman” – Axel Rudi Pell
Axel Rudi Pell delves into the rock genre with “Black Cat Woman,” bringing forth fiery guitar riffs and powerful vocals.
6. “The Black Cat” – Louis&Anas
It’s a diverse mix of sounds, painting depicting the elusive, nocturnal wanderer. It’s atmospheric and contemplative.
7. “Black Cat, Hoot Owl Blues” – Gertrude ‘Ma’ Rainey
Ma Rainey, hailed as the “Mother of the Blues,” delivers a powerful rendition in “Black Cat, Hoot Owl Blues.” It’s a song symbolizing the deep and soulful connection between human emotions and the mystical black cat.
8. “Black Cat” – Mayday Parade
It’s a passionate and energetic track, intertwining themes of desire and danger.
9. “Good Luck Black Cat” – Amalie
It’s a refreshing and uplifting composition, celebrating the black cat not as a symbol of superstition but as a charming and benevolent companion.
10. “Black Cat Fever” – Lil Red and the Rooster
“Black Cat Fever” by Lil Red and the Rooster is a delightful concoction of jazz and blues. It’s playful, it’s catchy, and it’s infused with a jivey rhythm that makes you want to dance.
11. “Old Black Cat” – Ian Anderson
Ian Anderson’s “Old Black Cat” is a tribute to the feline friend who’s seen it all. This song is like sitting down with a cat who’s got stories about the good old days.
12. “Lucky Black Cat” – The Deep River Boys
“Lucky Black Cat” by The Deep River Boys is here to flip the superstition on its head. With their harmonious vocals, they celebrate the ebony feline as a charm of good fortune.
13. “13 Black Cats” – Nan Wynn
Nan Wynn’s “13 Black Cats” is a big band bonanza that makes you feel like you’re in a 1940s dance hall, surrounded by 13 black cats.
14. “Bad Black Cat” – Dr. Elmo
“Bad Black Cat” by Dr. Elmo is the Halloween anthem you didn’t know you needed. It’s all about that black cat crossing your path and wreaking havoc.
15. “Black Cat Bone” – Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Johnny Copeland
This song is like a spellbinding potion brewed in a blues cauldron, guaranteed to bring back lost lovers or at least make you forget why they left.
16. This Black Cat Has 9 Lives” – Louis Armstrong
This song is a jazzy journey through the lives of a cat who’s seen it all and lived to tell the tale — nine times over.
17. “Black Cat Roun’ My Do'” – Jackie Payne Steve Edmonson Band
Jackie Payne and Steve Edmonson Band bring some soulful blues with “Black Cat Roun’ My Do’.”
18. “Gypsy Black Cat” – Hollis Brown
Hollis Brown’s “Gypsy Black Cat” is a rock-infused ode to the wandering, mystical feline that crosses paths and destinies.
19. “Black Cats Boogie” – Black Cats
What’s better than one black cat? A whole band of them, obviously. This song is catchy, funky, and it celebrates the black cat like no other.
20. “Black Cat” – Maurice Davis
Maurice Davis’s “Black Cat” is the smooth, soulful serenade. It’s got that vibe that makes you want to snap your fingers and sway.
21. “Black Cat” – Tommy Collins
Tommy Collins takes “Black Cat” down a country road. Tommy’s version is a reminder that even in the country, black cats are weaving tales and tunes worth crooning about.
22. “Black Cat” – Brian Auger
Brian Auger’s “Black Cat” is a jazzy, keyboard-driven trip. It’s sophisticated, it’s slick, and it’s got more layers than a cat has lives.
23. “The Black Cat Swing” – David Tanganelli
This track is all about turning bad omens into good times, with a beat that insists you swing out your worries and step into the night with a swing in your step.
24. “Black Cat Smile” – Nick Nolan
Nick Nolan’s “Black Cat Smile” has that gritty, blues-rock edge that makes you feel like this cat knows something you don’t.
25. “Since That Black Cat Crossed My Path” – Ernest Tubb
Ernest Tubb takes us back to classic country with “Since That Black Cat Crossed My Path,” where a run-in with a feline spells trouble. Ernest’s storytelling through twang and truth turns superstition into song, making you wonder if maybe, just maybe, that black cat was onto something.
26. “Black Cat (Cross My Path Today)” – Lonnie Donegan
Lonnie Donegan’s “Black Cat (Cross My Path Today)” is a folksy, upbeat take on the day a black cat decides to change your luck. With Lonnie’s lively banjo and spirited vocals, it’s a song that makes you want to skip, embracing whatever fate may come with a smile.
27. “Black Cat Cross My Trail” – Memphis Slim
Memphis Slim lays down the blues with “Black Cat Cross My Trail.” It’s the blues at its best, telling tales of woe and warning.
28. “Black Cat Moan” – Don Nix
Don Nix’s “Black Cat Moan” is raw, powerful blues, and it carries the weight of a moan.
29. “Black Cats and Crows” – Ward Davis
Ward Davis’s “Black Cats and Crows” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that intertwines fate, folklore, and feathered omens with our feline friends. This song is a journey through the darker side of superstition, with black cats and crows as the guides.
30. “BLACK CATS” – ZillaKami
“BLACK CATS” is a loud soundtrack for a midnight rendezvous with your neighborhood felines.
31. “Black Cat” – Bomba
Bomba’s “Black Cat” brings that reggae rhythm that even the most superstitious can’t resist grooving to. This tune is perfect for those days when you want to chill out and let the good luck roll in.
32. “Black Cat” – Lightnin’ Hopkins
Lightnin’ Hopkins’s “Black Cat” takes us back to the roots with gritty blues. It’s raw, it’s authentic, and it’s got that stomp-your-feet, clap-your-hands kind of rhythm. Lightnin‘ tells it like it is, making you believe he’s had more than a few run-ins with black cats — and lived to sing the tale.
33. “Black Cat” – Broadcast
Broadcast’s “Black Cat” is like stepping into an indie electronic dream. It’s ethereal, it’s enigmatic, and it’s got that otherworldly vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret the universe hasn’t quite figured out yet. This song is for wandering souls and nighttime prowlers.
34. “Black Cat” – Whitey
Whitey’s “Black Cat” is got a cool beat and a vibe. This track is the anthem for midnight adventures and mischief.
35. “Black Cat” – Ziggy Marley
This song is all about breaking down the myths and celebrating the mystery and magic of our feline friends. It’s for everyone who believes that luck is what you make it, especially with a black cat by your side.
36. “I Ain’t Superstitious” – Rod Stewart & Jeff Beck
With Rod’s raspy vocals and Jeff’s legendary guitar licks, this song is all about turning superstition on its head and dancing on the black cat’s path. It’s bold, it’s brash, and it’s the perfect tune for those who walk under ladders just for the fun of it.