Tea Blog

Is there anything more rock and roll than tea? Perhaps not traditionally. Tea has long carried an image of refinement—often associated with quiet gatherings, delicate sandwiches, and classic tea rooms. While those traditions are still alive and well, tea has also been undergoing something of a modern rebranding.

Part of that shift comes from unexpected places, including the music world. In recent years, several well-known musicians have embraced tea culture by opening tea shops and cafés, helping to bring a fresh and contemporary edge to the beverage’s image.

One of the earliest examples is musician Moby, who opened Teany in 2002 on New York City’s Lower East Side. Reflecting Moby’s vegan lifestyle, Teany initially combined a menu of teas with plant-based foods. Over time, the brand expanded to include bottled tea products, extending its reach beyond the café itself.

Another notable figure is Brian Ritchie of the band Violent Femmes. After moving to Hobart, Tasmania, Ritchie opened Chado: The Way of Tea, a tea house inspired by Japanese tea traditions. His interest in Japanese culture—including becoming a certified instructor of traditional flute—helped shape the concept behind this tea-focused venture. More details can be found in this feature on Brian Ritchie’s transition from rock musician to tea house owner.

Possibly the most high-profile example is Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins. As reported in this announcement of Billy Corgan’s planned tea house venture in Chicago, the musician partnered in opening a tea shop inspired by 1930s Chinese design. The concept emphasized a diverse tea menu featuring a wide range of styles and flavors from around the world.

These ventures highlight a broader shift in how tea is perceived. Once associated primarily with tradition, tea is increasingly being reimagined as a modern, creative, and even countercultural beverage.

So while tea may not have originally been synonymous with rock and roll, it’s certainly finding its place in new and unexpected circles—proving that even the most time-honored traditions can evolve.

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