These Mother's Day Songs Will Help You Honor Mom and Everything She Does
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Moms are truly the world's biggest blessing, which is why it's important to make them feel as such everyday—not just on Mother's Day! But since the holiday is coming up, it makes sense that you're looking for ways to make the day extra special. As you prepare a menu for Mother's Day brunch and plan all your other Mother's Day activities, you can also keep the energy going by creating a playlist of songs that honor mom and everything she does. (As well as songs you just know she'll love.) Such a playlist does exist, and it's curated for you below!
Whether your mom is a fan of old-school rock, contemporary country, or soulful R&B, there's a Mother's Day song for her. "Mama Said" by The Shirelles is a fun and catchy reminder that Mom really was right all along. Meanwhile, "Mother" by Kacey Musgraves comes straight from the heart with its meaningful lyrics. And it's impossible not to sing along to Carole King's duet with her own daughter, "Where You Lead."
Each of these mother-daughter songs and mother-son songs deserves a spot on your Mother's Day playlist to show your mom just how much you care. Some will make you dance, some will make you laugh, and a few might make you cry. In the end, all that matters is that you listen to them together!
Other creative things to do on Mother's Day:
"You Can't Hurry Love" by The Supremes
A mom's advice is the best advice! Especially when it comes to love and romance. If you're grateful for the lessons your mother has taught you on such topics, go ahead and throw this one onto your playlist.
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"You Are The Sunshine Of My Life" by Stevie Wonder
If your mom is the sunshine of your life, then you can't go wrong with this Stevie Wonder classic. It's the most soothing melody perfect for putting on in the background of your Mother's Day meals.
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"Sweetest Devotion" by Adele
"Just remember, that come whatever, I'll be yours all along." Adele wanted to make everyone cry with her adorable tribute to her son in 2015. Send this to your mama so you can shed some tears together.
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"In My Life" by The Beatles
This one goes out to those who are celebrating mothers and grandmothers who may no longer be here. Remember their legacy by listening to the sweet words that honor them in this ballad by The Beatles.
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"You'll Be In My Heart" by Phil Collins
Fun fact: this song played in the background of the movie Tarzan. It specifically played during the scene when Tarzan's adoptive mom went out of her way to comfort him and make him feel at home. You know, because that's what moms are for!
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"PROTECTOR" by Beyoncé, Rumi Carter
Beyoncé featured her daughter Rumi Carter in her latest country album, and it's just about the darnedest thing you'll ever hear. Listen to this one when you want to hear some heartfelt lyrics and beautiful harmonies.
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"Oh, Mother of Mine" by The Temptations
If there's one thing you get from this catchy hit from The Temptations, it's that you should always listen to your mother. She says what she says for a reason, after all.
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"Mother and Child Reunion" by Paul Simon
Those who live somewhat far from their moms can probably relate to this one. If you're doing a long distance family thing, then send this to your mama to let her know you're awaiting your sweet reunion.
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"Oh Mother" by Christina Aguilera
No matter what you and your mom may go through, it's sweet to know that you'll at least always have each other. This song by Christina Aguilera talks about just that.
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"Growin’ Up Raising You" by Gabby Barrett
This song is written in the perspective of a mother to her newborn child, so playing this on Mother's Day will have your mom relating like no other. It will bring her back to your younger years, causing for a dose of nostalgia.
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"The Mother" by Brandi Carlile
"You're nothing short of magical and beautiful to me, I'll never hit the big time without you." Okay, those lyrics about a mother's love for her child are enough to bring anyone to tears. While the music video focuses on a bunch of different scenarios, it's clear that Brandi Carlile's message is meant for moms everywhere.
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"Always Love You" by Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly wanted to channel the overwhelming love she felt by her mother growing up. She promises to love and treat her kids the way her mom did to her. (Ugh, isn't that the cutest thing you've ever heard?!)
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"Coat Of Many Colors" by Dolly Parton
If we're being honest, we can't help but add Dolly Parton to all our playlists! Her song, "Coat of many colors," is all about how she became the person she is today—all because of her mama.
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"The Wish" by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen's tribute to his mother, Adele Springsteen, is a bit emotional. He often credits her for sparking his love for music (and we thank her for that!), as well as shaping him into the man he is today. Adele passed away in February 2024, but this song (as well as her legacy) will live on! Listen to this one anytime you need a reminder of why moms are so great.
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"Your Mother Should Know" by The Beatles
Fun fact: Paul McCartney had to clarify the lyrics to this one, in which he said "I was basically trying to say your mother might know more than you think she does. Give her credit."
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"Mom" by Garth Brooks
Even Garth Brooks can get a little sentimental! He dedicates this song to all mothers and newborns. There's nothing like a mother's love, and he wants everyone to know that!
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"Mother Knows Best" by Donna Murphy
We're not saying Rapunzel's mom was a good person, we're just saying that this song from her character is one of the most iconic from the movie Tangled! Come on... you can't tell us you don't belt out these lyrics.
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"Mother" by Ashanti
Any, and we mean *any* mother-daughter duo will absolutely love this R&B hit. (Mother's Day karaoke, anyone?) Ashanti sings about how thankful she is to have had a caring mother growing up. Healing broken hearts and building confidence isn't an easy job... but it's what mothers are so good at!
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"Me & You Against The World" by Cissy and Whitney Houston
The ultimate mother-daughter duo! Cissy and Whitney Houston show just how strong a relationship between a mother and daughter can be with their live rendition of this song.
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"Mother Popcorn" by James Brown
A song about mothers, but make it a dance-hit! No, seriously, you're going to want to bust out some moves the minute this one comes on. Don't say that we didn't warn you!
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"I'll Always Love My Mama" by The Intruders
Kicking this list off with an upbeat tune that both you and your mama can get behind! Play this one in the background of your Mother's Day festivities.
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"In My Daughter's Eyes" by Martine McBride
Sung in the mom's perspective, this sweet ballad is for the moms who constantly think about their daughter's experience.
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"Somebody's Hero" by Jamie O'Neal
Your mom doesn't need to have "footprints on the moon" or have "half a million fans" to be great. She's still your hero no matter what, and this song reminds us of just that!
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"A Mother's Love" by Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin sings this poetic, soulful melody that truly highlights all that is a "mother's love."
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"The Hand That Rocks The Cradle" by Glenn Campbell
Glenn Campbell said it best: "There oughta be a Hall of Fame for mama"
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"Julia" by The Beatles
This one is an ode to those whose mothers may no longer be here —John Lennon wrote this song about his late mother as a remembrance of her name.
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"Turn To You" by Justin Bieber
Sometimes we don't realize in the moment the sacrifices our moms make. This song by Justin Bieber is all about reflection and feeling grateful!
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"Mother Like Mine" by The Band Perry
We're not saying that this should be your mother-daughter / mother-son dance at your wedding, but we're not *not* saying that either! 😉 (Just one listen to the lyrics, and you'll know exactly what we mean.)
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"Like My Mother Does" by Lauren Alaina
Like mother, like daughter! If you take a lot after your mama, then this song is for you.
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"The Perfect Fan" by Backstreet Boys
You'll never have a bigger fan than your own mom! The Backstreet Boys sing about how moms always seem to have your back, even when it gets rough!
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"Mama Said" by The Shirelles
When "Mama said that it was okay" as a kid, you just knew you could trust her. She's always right, after all!
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"Superwoman" by Alicia Keys
This powerful anthem is for all the mothers out there who are real-life superheroes!
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"Stacy's Mom" by Fountains of Wayne
Remind your mom that she's still got it (and always will!) with this cheeky track from the early 2000s. Bonus points if your name is Stacy!
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"Mother" by Kacey Musgraves
Have the tissues handy before you play this sweet country ballad for your own mother.
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"The Sweetest Gift" by Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris
This famous cover is all about a mother's unconditional love for her "erring but precious" grown-up child.
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"Mom" by Meghan Trainor
Ain't nobody got a mom like yours! Remind her of that fact by dancing to this fun and catchy tune together.
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"Mama's Song" by Carrie Underwood
Time goes too fast—and no one knows that quite like a mother. This touching song is about a mom learning to let go of her daughter as she grows up and gets married.
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"Because You Loved Me" by Céline Dion
Let your mom know how grateful you are for all the times she loved you throughout your life with this heartfelt song.
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"Mom" by Earth, Wind, & Fire
This '70s song points out what every child has always known to be true about their mom: "In my life I've always needed her."
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"Look What You've Done" by Drake
Rapper Drake thanks his mom and grandmother for everything they've done for him in this meaningful track. It even features a touching, real-life voicemail.
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"The Best Day" by Taylor Swift
The music video for this song Taylor Swift penned about her mother is worth a watch. It's filled with adorable home videos of the singer and the most important lady in her life.
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"You Can't Lose Me" by Faith Hill
Your mom will certainly relate to the sentiment expressed in this '90s country tune: Wherever you go, your mother's love will be there.
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"A Song For Mama" by Boyz II Men
It can be hard to find the words to describe just how much you appreciate your mother. Allow Boyz II Men to do the talking with the lyrics in this sweet song.
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"Mama Liked the Roses" by Elvis Presley
Elvis wrote this tune for his late mother Gladys, and it serves as an important reminder of all the small ways that moms show their love.
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"Mother" by Sugarland
Sugarland's song about motherhood will remind you both just how much Mom has done for you over the years. That's what Mother's Day is all about, after all!
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"Where You Lead" by Carole King and Louise Goffin
If your mom is a fan of Gilmore Girls, this memorable track is an obvious choice to play on Mother's Day. Originally written about a romantic relationship, it was reimagined for the show to reflect the relationship between a mother and daughter.
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"Promise to Try" by Madonna
Mother's Day can be difficult if your mom is no longer around. Pay tribute to her with this moving song that Madonna wrote after her own mother passed away at a young age.
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"Mama" by the Spice Girls
According to the Spice Girls' book, this song is "all about how you’re such a cow to your mum" at a young age, and then realize she was right all along. Relatable!
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"Thank You Mom" by Good Charlotte
Sometimes, all your mom wants to hear are two simple words: "thank you." Say it in song with this track by Good Charlotte!
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"Mama Tried" by Merle Haggard
It's not always easy trying to raise kids, and Merle Haggard acknowledges that after giving his own mom a tough a time. Play this song for the mama who tried her best!
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