Another Cup Of Coffee

Album: Beggar On A Beach Of Gold (1995)
Charted: 51
Play Video

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.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Supertramp founder Roger Hodgson

Supertramp founder Roger HodgsonSongwriter Interviews

Roger tells the stories behind some of his biggest hits, including "Give a Little Bit," "Take the Long Way Home" and "The Logical Song."

Hardy

HardySongwriter Interviews

The country hitmaker talks about his debut album, A Rock, and how a nursery rhyme inspired his hit single "One Beer."

Arrested For Your Art - The Story Of 2 Live Crew's "Obscene" Album

Arrested For Your Art - The Story Of 2 Live Crew's "Obscene" AlbumSong Writing

In the summer of 1990, you could get arrested for selling a 2 Live Crew album or performing their songs in Southern Florida. And that's exactly what happened.

Weird Al Yankovic

Weird Al YankovicFact or Fiction

Did Al play on a Beach Boys record? Did he have beef with George Lucas and Coolio? See if you can spot weird but true stories.

The Truth Is Out There: A History of Alien Songs

The Truth Is Out There: A History of Alien SongsSong Writing

The trail runs from flying saucer songs in the '50s, through Bowie, blink-182 and Katy Perry.

Michelle Branch

Michelle BranchSongwriter Interviews

Michelle Branch talks about "Everywhere," "The Game Of Love," and her run-in with a Christian broadcasting network.