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40 Best Mother’s Day Songs That Will Make Her Heart Sing

Some are wholesome while others are just groovy!

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best mothers day songs
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Moms are undeniably one of life’s greatest blessings, which is why they deserve to feel cherished every single day—not just on Mother's Day! But with the holiday fast approaching, now is the perfect time to find ways to make the celebration extra memorable. As you prepare a menu for Mother's Day brunch and organize all your other Mother's Day activities, you can keep the good vibes 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 dedicated to motherhood. 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:

1

"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 classic Stevie Wonder tune. Its soothing melody sets the ideal tone as background music for your Mother's Day celebrations.

2

"Sweetest Devotion" by Adele

"Just remember, that come whatever, I'll be yours all along," sings Adele in this adorable tribute to her son that she released in 2015. It's a tear-jerker! Send this to your mama so you can share in the sentiment.

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3

"In My Life" by The Beatles

This song is dedicated to those remembering mothers and grandmothers who are no longer with us. Honor their legacy with the heartfelt lyrics of this touching ballad by The Beatles.

4

"You'll Be In My Heart" by Phil Collins

Fun fact: This song was featured in the movie Tarzan during the sweet scene where Tarzan's adoptive mom goes out of her way to comfort him and help him feel at home—because that’s exactly what moms do!

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5

"PROTECTOR" by Beyoncé, Rumi Carter

Beyoncé featured her daughter Rumi Carter on her latest country album, and it's just about the darnedest thing you'll ever hear. Listen to this track by the mother-daughter duo when you want to hear some loving lyrics and beautiful harmonies.

6

"Oh, Mother of Mine" by The Temptations

If there's one big takeaway from this catchy hit by The Temptations, it's the importance of always listening to your mother. She says what she says for a reason, after all.

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7

"Mother and Child Reunion" by Paul Simon

For those who live far from their mommas, this one will hit close to home. Even if you’re celebrating from a distance, you can share this song with your mom to let her know you’re eagerly anticipating your sweet reunion.

8

"Oh Mother" by Christina Aguilera

No matter what challenges you and your mom may face, it's reassuring to know you’ll always have each other. This sentimental Christina Aguilera song perfectly captures that bond.

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9

"Growin’ Up Raising You" by Gabby Barrett

Written from a mother’s perspective to her newborn child, this song is the perfect choice for Mother’s Day. It will resonate deeply with your mom, taking her back to your early years and filling the moment with a heartwarming dose of nostalgia.

10

"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 highlights various scenarios, Brandi Carlile’s message is unmistakably a tribute to moms everywhere.

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11

"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?!)

12

"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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13

"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.

14

"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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15

"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!

16

"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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17

"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!

18

"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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19

"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.

20

"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.

Headshot of Kelly O'Sullivan
Kelly O'Sullivan
Senior Editor
Kelly O’Sullivan is the senior editor for The Pioneer Woman and manages the website’s social channels, in addition to overseeing content strategy and news.
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