Another Cup Of Coffee

Album: Beggar On A Beach Of Gold (1995)
Charted: 51
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Songfacts®:

  • Chief Mechanic Mike Rutherford wrote and produced this song with his frequent collaborator Christopher Neil. It tells the story of a woman whose husband has left her, leaving her alone in the house where she raised her family. All she can do is pour herself another cup of coffee.
  • In a Songfacts interview with Mike Rutherford, he said of this song: "It started with that phrase. I just sang that line, 'She pours herself another cup of coffee' and on those chords. And once again that sums up the whole song really - the sadness of married life and the frustrations of a married life.

    I like using everyday words like coffee. Squeeze are great at using very everyday words and I find it very attractive that way: 'another cup of coffee,' 'stare across the wall,' 'suitcases.' Everyday things give you a nice imagery."
  • Mike + The Mechanics had two vocalists, Paul Carrack and Paul Young. Carrack, who typically sang their more emotive tracks, took the lead on this one.
  • Directed by Gregg Masuak, the video uses a style similar to the R.E.M. clip for "Losing My Religion," with shifting focus and white flashes. The jilted wife plays out her frustrations in a surreal setting, ending on a slightly upbeat note as she smiles while holding her cup.

Comments: 2

  • Nïk from FroglandWhen I first heard this song (back in the days ;-) I felt it an instant classic.
    Moderate success here, but huge one in my heart.

    It's only now, many years later, that I can relate first-hand with the lyrics...
  • Mitchell from Liverpool, UkI have to say I'm surprised this wasn't a bigger hit; it's a nice emotive ballad and the lyrics help you picture the story in your head.
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