Carpentry and music might seem like disparate worlds, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find they’re more intertwined than you think. Just like a catchy tune can get stuck in your head, a well-crafted piece of woodwork can stand the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker, a music lover, or just appreciate a good pun, this playlist of Carpentry Songs is sure to nail it. So, grab your hammer, put on your headphones, and let’s dive into some musical lumber.
1. Johnny Johnson & The Bandwagon – Breaking Down The Walls Of Heartbreak
Starting strong at number one, we have Johnny Johnson & The Bandwagon with “Breaking Down The Walls Of Heartbreak.” This soul classic isn’t literally about carpentry, but it masterfully uses the metaphor of a carpenter to describe love and affection. He’s not building houses, but he is a carpenter of the heart, breaking down emotional barriers. The upbeat rhythm makes it perfect for starting your workday with energy.
2. The Four Tops – If I Were A Carpenter
Originally written by Tim Hardin, “If I Were A Carpenter” gained immense popularity through The Four Tops’ soulful rendition. This song has been covered by a vast array of artists, from Johnny Cash to Robert Plant, highlighting its universal appeal. The lyrics explore themes of love and simple living, imagining a life where the singer could provide through honest, handcrafted work. It’s a thoughtful tune for when you’re taking a break from the sawdust.
3. Aberfeldy – If I Were A Joiner
Adding a touch of Scottish charm, Aberfeldy’s “If I Were A Joiner” playfully elevates the craft. As the original article mentions, joiners are arguably more skilled than carpenters, and this song embraces that distinction with humor. The charming lyrics about building a shelf “all about you” add a sweet and quirky dimension to the carpentry theme. It’s a lighthearted track perfect for a relaxed afternoon in the workshop.
4. Eddie Floyd – Knock On Wood
“Knock On Wood” by Eddie Floyd is an absolute classic soul anthem. While not explicitly about carpentry, the title itself is a well-known woodworking phrase associated with good luck and warding off misfortune. This energetic track is fantastic for keeping your spirits high and your movements rhythmic while you work. And yes, as the original post hints, while some might see other meanings, let’s appreciate it at face value for our carpentry songs list! Don’t forget to check out versions by David Bowie and Emma Stone too.
5. The Avett Brothers – The Once & Future Carpenter
The Avett Brothers bring their signature folk-rock sound to “The Once & Future Carpenter.” This song reflects on life changes and transitions, using the metaphor of a carpenter who has left his trade for a different path. The poignant lyrics about leaving “timbers rotting where they lay” evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection, perfect for a thoughtful moment during a long project.
6. Idlewild – These Wooden Ideas
From Scottish indie rock band Idlewild comes “These Wooden Ideas.” This track is more abstractly linked to carpentry, suggesting that all projects, even creative and intellectual ones, have to start somewhere, just like woodworking projects begin with an idea and raw materials. The song’s energetic and slightly chaotic vibe is great for when you’re brainstorming new designs in your workshop.
7. John Prine – Grandpa Was A Carpenter
John Prine’s “Grandpa Was A Carpenter” is a heartfelt tribute to the working man. This song paints a vivid picture of a grandfather who was a carpenter, detailing the realities of his trade with simple yet powerful lyrics. “He built houses, stores and banks / Chain-smoked Camel cigarettes / And hammered nails in planks” – these lines perfectly capture the essence of a hardworking carpenter. It’s a respectful and grounded song that resonates with the spirit of craftsmanship.
8. Robert Plant – Big Log
Admittedly, Robert Plant’s “Big Log” is a bit of a stretch for carpentry songs. However, the original author cleverly includes it, and we can appreciate the wordplay. Thinking of a “log” in woodworking terms, this powerful rock ballad can be reimagined as a song longing for transformation – just like a log waiting to be cut into planks. Its driving rhythm and Plant’s iconic vocals make it a powerful addition to any work playlist, even loosely connected to carpentry.
9. Bob Dylan – The House Carpenter
Taking a turn towards traditional folk, Bob Dylan’s version of “The House Carpenter” is a haunting ballad with roots in older folk traditions. This song tells a ghostly tale, and while the carpentry aspect is more narrative than thematic, it earns its place through the profession mentioned in the title. Dylan’s raw and evocative delivery makes this a compelling listen, perhaps for a more contemplative mood in the workshop.
10. Paul Weller – Woodcutter’s Son
Rounding out the list is Paul Weller’s “Woodcutter’s Son.” This song, with its strong and assertive lyrics, speaks to themes of heritage and determination. The “woodcutter” imagery aligns with the broader theme of working with wood. The powerful lines “And if it comes to the crunch / Then I’m the woodcutter’s son / And I’m cutting down the wood for the good of everyone!” resonate with a sense of purpose and craftsmanship.
Whether you’re actually breaking down walls, building shelves, or just enjoying the rhythmic sounds of sawing and hammering, these carpentry songs offer a diverse soundtrack to your woodworking endeavors. From literal interpretations to metaphorical connections, this playlist celebrates the craft in its own unique, musical way. So next time you’re in your workshop, give this playlist a spin and see if it inspires your next masterpiece!
