"Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl" is a dirty blues song first recorded in 1931 by Bessie Smith and released by Columbia Records. It was written by Clarence Williams, J. Tim Brymn, and Dally Small. Owing to its sexually suggestive lyrics, it has been rated as one of the best double entendre songs of all time. Nina Simone released "I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl" on her 1967 album, Nina Simone Sings the Blues. While not a cover, it references some of the original lyrics,[9] and has been described as "a first-person representation of empowered female sexuality."

Lyrics

I want a little sugar - In my bowl
I want a little sweetness - Down in my soul
I could stand some lovin' - Oh so bad
Feel so lonely and I feel so sad

I want a little steam - On my clothes
Maybe I could fix things up - So they'll go
Whatsa matter Daddy - Come on, save my soul
I need some sugar in my bowl
I ain't foolin'
I want some sugar in my bowl

(Sax instrumental)

You been acting strangely - I've been told
Soothe me - I want some sugar in my bowl

I want some steam - On my clothes
Maybe I can fix things up so they'll go
Whatsa matter Daddy - Come on save my soul
I want a little sugar in my bowl
I ain't foolin'
Drop some sugar yeah in my bowl