List of songs containing overt references to real musicians

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Songwriters occasionally write songs that make overt references to real musicians and bands. This list excludes hip hop songs because overt references to real musicians are more common than not. Hip hop arose as an informal accompaniment to dance music, when performers spoke over percussion breaks. Over time, these performers began speaking more and more in sync with the beat, and thus was born rapping. Eschewing traditional song structure, most of these early rappers told simple stories, jokes and teased their friends and enemies. As a result, modern hip hop musicians traditionally mention performers that inspired them, performers who they consider untalented, or other simple references to real musicians.

One song that does not quite fit this category is American Pie by Don McLean. Although it is clearly about Buddy Holly and many other rockers from the 1950s and 1960s, the lyrics are composed largely of metaphors and plays on words. The only unambiguously identifiable performer in the song is actor James Dean.

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Entries are listed with the following syntax: "Song Title" by musical artist(s) most associated with song references musicians and/or bands referred to.

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[edit] Songs that mention Elvis Presley

main article: List of songs about or referencing Elvis Presley

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