56 Great Mother’s Day Songs to Help You Say 'Thank You, Mom'
From R&B to country, these tunes will show her how much you care.
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The bond between a mother and her daughter or a mom and son is so special that it’s no wonder that musicians for generations have made it a point to honor their mothers in songs. From the Beatles’ melodic tune “In My Life” from the 1960s to rapper Tupac Shakur’s “Dear Mama” tribute in the 90s to present day hits like Meghan Trainor’s “Mom,” which was released in 2021, the most important ladies in our lives have been honored with sentimental lyrics in nearly every genre. Needless to say, when it comes to selecting the best Mother’s Day songs for this year’s playlist, you have plenty of options.
As you scroll through our collection of grooves, jingles and bops, you’re sure to find just the right track to dedicate to your mom, stepmom, grandma, aunt or other mother figure in your life. Some of these numbers, like “The Mother’s Day Song” are upbeat and great for elementary students and young kids, while other ballads like Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart” and "Mother" by Kacey Musgraves will tug at the heartstrings of all age groups.
With R&B, gospel, country, pop and rock songs all finding their way onto this list, it’s safe to say that you can find the best “thank you, mom” tunes right here. Plus, these songs are the perfect inspiration to help you fill a Mother’s Day card with loving words or to help you select a heartfelt Instagram caption to go with your mommy-and-me selfies.
"Somebody's Hero" by Jamie O'Neal
All moms truly are heroes. Jamie O'Neal illustrates that fact perfectly with this song dedicated to all the everyday tasks that mothers make look so easy.
"In My Life" by The Beatles
If you happen to be remembering the life of a mother, grandmother, aunt or maternal figure, The Beatles have just the song to make you feel closer to them this Mother's Day. The iconic group sings with the fondness of someone close to them with the chorus: "Though I know I'll never lose affection, for people and things that went before, I know I'll often stop and think about them, in my life, I love you more."
"The Mother's Day Song" by Bryant Oden
This silly song speaks from the perspective of a young child trying to take on the demands of his mother's life for Mother's Day. Not only will it give you a greater appreciation for all that she does daily, but you'll get a good laugh too.
"Always Love You" by Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly perfectly captures the unconditional love of a mother in this sweet tune. She also speaks to how she has been inspired by her mother's love with the lyrics, "when I'm ready to leave,
start a family, I'll love them like you loved me."
"Like My Mother Does" by Lauren Alaina
Anyone who's ever been told "you're just like your mother" will resonate with this song. Lauren Alaina details all of the ways she lives our her life "like [her] mother does."
"In My Daughter's Eyes" by Martina McBride
There is nothing quite like the relationship between a mother and daughter, and this song is proof. Martina McBride effortlessly croons emotional lyrics about the strength she draws from their bond.
"You Can’t Hurry Love" By The Supremes
Moms always find a way to give the best advice. The Supremes said it best when they detailed a mother's advice about waiting on love. If your mom is into the classics this sweet tune will be right up her alley.
"Because You Love Me" by Céline Dion
The truth is, many of us wouldn't be where we are now without our mom. Celine Dion's iconic song will bring tears to her eyes thanks to lyrics like, "You were my strength when I was weak. You were my voice when I couldn't speak."
"Coat of Many Colors" by Dolly Parton
There is nothing quite like receiving a handmade or sentimental gift from your mom. Dolly Parton perfectly encompasses that feeling with this warm ballad speaking to the "coat of many colors
that my momma made for me."
"Forever My Lady" by Jodeci
Celebrate the woman who brought your child into the world with this R&B tribute. Jodeci delivers on this soulful tune that will have you belting out "now our baby is born healthy and strong, now our dreams are reality."
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder's upbeat 1973 single will be the perfect reminder to the special woman in your life that she always brings you the sunshine.
“Mom” by Earth, Wind & Fire
For a jazzy melodic song that will transport Mom back to the 70s, you'll want to keep this Earth, Wind & Fire hit in rotation throughout all of your Mother's Day festivities. Not only is it pleasing to hear, but lyrics like "She gave me words of love" and
"She gave me peace and love" will keep all the various lessons your mom has taught you at the forefront of the day.
"Sweetest Devotion" by Adele
New moms will be able to relate to this 2015 hit songstress Adele wrote about her devotion to her son. With lines like "You will only be eternally, The one that I belong to" and "Just remember, that come whatever, I'll be yours all along," you can't help but to catch all the feels.
"To Zion" by Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill describes her journey to becoming a mother in this emotional ballad. Play this for your mom to remind her of the "joy" of her world.
"You'll Be In My Heart" by Phil Collins
This Phil Collins song made its debut in 1999 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film Tarzan. It's played as Tarzan's adoptive mother attempts to console the infant. Though Collins reportedly wrote the song for his daughter Lily, the sentiments of the song are still enough to bring a tear to any mother's eye.
"Look What You've Done" by Drake
Drake's tribute to his mother and grandmother reflects on the times before he rose to fame when they took care of him. The touching song is featured on his 2011 Take Care album and will resonate with any mom who has ever made sacrifices to see their child reach their dreams.
"Blue" by Beyoncé
Beyoncé's dedication to her first child Blue Ivy Carter is a lovely encapsulation of the unique bond between a mother and her child. Baby Blue Ivy's voice at the end of this song is just the adorable icing on the cake.
"Mama's Song" by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood takes listeners on a journey through the many lessons her mother taught her that she now plans to impart to her own children. Take a listen with your mom and she'll know for sure that you were listening to all of her advice when you were growing up.
"I'll Always Love My Mama" by The Intruders
If there was ever a time to list all of the reason's why your mom is "favorite girl" Mother's Day is one of them. The Intruders put it perfectly in this melodic R&B number that showcases the special love between a child and their mother.
"My Mother and I" by Lucy Dacus
All kids compare themselves to their mothers, and this Boygenius member has penned a sweet song about figuring out the ways you and your mother are similar.
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