Every parenting experience is unique, and the best song about motherhood reflects this. It touches on specific moments while also addressing broader themes of joy and sacrifice that can resonate with everyone. That’s why you should have a unique song as your Mother’s Day title.
You can sing them to your mother, send them directly, or use them as inspiration to fill a Mother’s Day card with heartfelt words. From playful tunes to heartfelt ballads, we’ve gathered some classic Mother’s Day songs that will make your mom feel special.
63 Best Mother’s Day Songs To Play This Special Day
1. “Mama Said” by The Shirelles
This Motown classic praises mothers for their wisdom and comfort during tough times. Remember, it’s okay to turn to your mom for support, even if she warned you beforehand.
Most popular lyric: “Mama said there’ll be days like this, there’ll be days like this, my mama said.”
2. “Mother” by Sugarland
“Mother” by Sugarland is a straightforward and upbeat country song that celebrates mothers and their amazing strength and generosity. What a wonderful melody you can sing for your mother!
Most popular lyric: “When you fail her, when you’re afraid / And crying in the careless mess you’ve made / She’ll make you clean it up yourself / And offer you a little help / And dry your weary eyes when you let her / But she’ll look at you and know you can do better.”
3. “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle” by Glen Campbell and Steve Wariner
This country song is very emotional, but don’t hesitate to play it for your mom—trust us, she’ll love it.
Most popular lyric: “There ought to be a hall of fame for mamas / Creation’s most unique and precious pearls / And heaven help us always to remember / That the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.”
4. “Mother” by Kacey Musgraves
For those who are far from their moms or can’t be with them on the holiday, this Kacey Musgraves song about missing a parent will provide comfort.
Most popular lyric: “I’m just sitting here thinking ’bout the time that’s slipping / And missing my mother, mother/ And she’s probably sitting there / Thinking ’bout the time that’s slipping / And missing her mother, mother.”
5. “Hey Mama” by Kanye West
Kanye West shared a strong bond with his mother, Donda. In his song “Hey Mama,” he reflects on their past challenges and expresses his love and admiration for her through his rap lyrics.
Most popular lyric: “Hey mama, I want to scream so loud for you / ‘Cause I’m so proud of you, let me tell you what I’m about to do / You know I love you so, I’ll never let you go / I wrote this song just so you know no matter where you go I’m a love you.”
6. “I’ll Be There” by Mac Miller
Even the coolest rappers, like Mac Miller, aren’t afraid to get emotional about their moms. In this song, he pours out his feelings in a heartfelt tribute to the love and support his mom has given him.
Most popular lyric: “The reason I was 6 years old rocking some Jordans / The reason I had food / My own damn room / A TV and a living room to watch my cartoons / I just hope she knows I love her / The world’s best mother.”
7. “Somebody’s Hero” by Jamie O’Neal
All moms are really like heroes. Jamie O’Neal shows this perfectly in her song dedicated to all the everyday things that moms do, making them seem so easy.
Most popular lyric: “She’s never left her footprints on the moon. She’s never made a solo hot-air balloon ride around the world. No, she’s just your everyday average girl, but she’s somebody’s hero.”
8. “In My Life” by The Beatles
If you’re thinking about a special mom, grandma, aunt, or someone like a mom to you, The Beatles have the perfect song to help you feel connected to them this Mother’s Day.
Most popular lyric: “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.”
9. “The Mother’s Day Song” by Bryant Oden
This funny song is sung from the point of view of a young child who’s pretending to be their mom for Mother’s Day. It not only helps you understand all the things she does every day, but it’ll also give you a good chuckle.
Most popular lyric: “Remember no one’s perfect, every kid has faults/ Remember it’s the thought that counts more than the results/ My heart was in the right place even though I did it wrong/ It was all to say, on mother’s day, my love for you is strong!”
10. “Mom” by Earth, Wind & Fire
Want to groove to a smooth, catchy song that takes Mom back to the 70s? You might want to play this Earth, Wind & Fire hit during all your Mother’s Day celebrations.
Most popular lyric: “Mom, the words of love / She gave me peace and love/ She gave me thoughts of love”
11. “To Zion” by Lauryn Hill
In this soul-stirring ballad, Lauryn Hill paints a vivid picture of her transformation into motherhood. Treat your mom to this poignant melody to reignite the warmth and love she brings to your world.
Most popular lyric: “Now the joy of my world/ Is in Zion! (Zion, Zion!). Now the joy of my world. Is in Zion! (Zion, uhh, Zion!)”
12. “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins
This song by Phil Collins was introduced in the movie Tarzan’s soundtrack. It plays when Tarzan’s adoptive mom tries to soothe him as a baby. Although Collins wrote it for his daughter Lily, the song’s feelings can touch any mom’s heart.
Most popular lyric: “You′ll be in my heart (you′ll be here in my heart).No matter what they say. I’ll be with you be here in my heart, I’ll be there always.”
13. “Look What You’ve Done” by Drake
“Take Care” honors Drake’s mother and grandmother, recalling the times they cared for him before he became famous. This heartfelt tribute will connect with any mom who has made sacrifices to help her child pursue their dreams.
Most popular lyric: “Is this sh*t real? Should I pinch you? After all the things that we’ve been through, I got you. Look what you’ve done, look what you’ve done. Look what you’ve done for me now.”
14. “Blue” by Beyoncé
“Blue” by Beyoncé is a soulful anthem celebrating the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. With heartfelt lyrics and a captivating melody, this song beautifully captures the joys and challenges of motherhood.
Most popular lyric: “Each day I feel so blessed to be looking at you. ‘Cause when you open your eyes, I feel alive. My heart beats so damn quick when you say my name. When I’m holding you tight, I’m so alive.”
15. “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood
In her song, Carrie Underwood reflects on the valuable lessons her mother taught her, lessons she plans to pass on to her own kids. Listening to it with your mom is a great way to show her that you’ve taken her advice to heart over the years.
Most popular lyric: “Just one more thing before you leave: Don’t forget to remember me.”
16. “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle” by Glen Campbell and Steve Wariner
With its beautiful melody and touching lyrics, this song reminds us of the love and strength found in the hands of those who nurture and guide us. Listening to it is a moving experience that celebrates the unsung heroes in our lives and the profound impact they have.
Most popular lyric: “There ought to be a hall of fame for mamas. Creation’s most unique and precious pearls. And heaven help us always to remember that the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.”
17. “Mother” by Ashanti
“Mother” by Ashanti is a song dedicated to celebrating the unconditional love and support provided by mothers. It is a heartfelt tribute to the special bond between a mother and her child.
Most popular lyric: “You taught me strength, and you gave me guidance. Whenever faith was lost, you were there to find it.”
18. “Angels” by Randy Travis
The song “Angels” doesn’t seem to be about mothers at first. It begins with friends talking about the September 11 attacks and the world’s troubles. They wonder if angels are real until one friend admits he’s never seen one. Then, the narrator chimes in.
Most popular lyric: “Are you telling me that you’ve never seen an angel? Never felt the presence of one standing by? … Man, are you blind? Just look in your mother’s eyes.”
19. “Your Mother Should Know“ by The Beatles
Even though the words of this song from 1967 might sound simple, Paul McCartney explained what it’s really about. He said, “I was just trying to say that your mom might know more than you realize. Give her some credit.” And he’s right.
Most popular lyric: “Lift up your hearts and sing me a song. That was a hit before your mother was born. Though she was born a long, long time ago. Your mother should know.”
20. “Mom“ by Garth Brooks
This sweet song tells the story of a baby talking to God about coming down from Heaven to meet a special angel who will be his loving, caring, and strong mother.
Most popular lyric: “So, hush now, little baby, don’t you cry. ‘Cause there’s someone down there waiting whose only goal in life. Is making sure you’re always gonna be alright.”
21. “The Baby“ by Blake Shelton
This song is all about a mother who sees her son as her precious baby, no matter how old he gets. It shows the everlasting love and care she feels for him as he grows up.
Most popular lyric: “She’d laugh until she cried. I could do no wrong. She would always save me because I was her baby.”
22. “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry
This country band, made up of three siblings, sings a song celebrating their mom, whom they call the “lady of the house.” They believe her love is so strong that it could stop wars from happening.
Most popular lyric: “She’s the sky that holds the clouds. She’s the lady of our house
We all need her. But no one more than me.”
23. “Oh Mother“ by Christina Aguilera
It’s clear that moms go through a lot, and Christina wants her mom to know that they’ll always be there for each other in the end. Singing this song for your mother is not a bad idea. You can try it!
Most popular lyric: “Oh mother, we’re stronger. From all of the tears, you have shed. Oh mother, don’t look back. Cause he’ll never hurt us again.”
24. “The Perfect Fan” by The Backstreet Boys
When the boy band was at the height of their fame, they had millions of fans, but they never forgot about one special person: their mom. Adding the image of a mother to the song made it even more heartfelt and touching.
Most popular lyric: “You showed me when I was young just how to grow. You showed me everything that I should know. You showed me just how to walk without your hands ’cause mom, you always were the perfect fan.”
25. “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men
Even though this R&B song is over twenty years old, it’s still meaningful today because our moms are still so important to us that we can’t go a day without thinking about them.
Most popular lyric: “No one else can be what you have been to me. You will always be the girl in my life for all times.”
26. “Dear Mama” by 2Pac
In 2Pac’s heartfelt tribute to his mother, Afeni Shakur, who gave birth to him shortly after being released from jail, the late rap legend expresses words that every mother longs to hear: “You are appreciated.”
Most popular lyric: “There are no words that can express how I feel. You never kept a secret, always stayed real. And I appreciate how you raised me. And all the extra love that you gave me.”
27. Mama I’m Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne
This song from 1991 was actually written by Ozzy Osbourne for his wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, whom he affectionately calls “Mama.” Try immersing yourself in this music, and you will find lyrics that will melt every mother’s heart.
Most popular lyric: “I’ve seen your face a thousand times. Every day we’ve been apart. I don’t care about the sunshine, yeah. ‘Cause, mama, mama, I’m comin’ home.”
28. “Mama” by Crystal Bowersox
Known as “Mama Sox” by her fellow contestants on season 9 of American Idol, Bowersox recorded “Mama,” an acoustic ballad that says goodbye instead of expressing gratitude. As a young mother herself, Crystal sings with passion and sincerity.
Most popular lyric: “Mama can you hear me I’ve been calling for a while now/ mama can you feel me I’m so hungry for comfort and love and stability”
29. “Mother” by John Lennon
John Lennon’s song “Mother” is a tribute to both of his parents. His father left when Lennon was just a baby, and his mother tragically died in a car accident when he was 17 years old.
Most popular lyric: “Mother, you left me but I never left you. Oh-oh-oh, I needed you, you didn’t need me, oh no”
30. “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
This Stevie Wonder hit celebrates the people who make us happy and bring light into our lives. It’s hard not to smile when you listen to it. Press play and feel the warmth of your mother’s love as you reminisce.
Most popular lyric: You are the sunshine of my life. That’s why I’ll always be around. You are the apple of my eye. Forever you’ll stay in my heart”
31. “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack and Sons of the Desert
Sung with strong emotion by Lee Ann Womack, this uplifting song is fitting for many situations. On Mother’s Day, it highlights the hopes and dreams mothers have for their children and how they motivate us to strive for greatness.
Most popular lyric: “Living might mean taking chances, but they’re worth taking. Loving might be a mistake, but it’s worth making.”
32. “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5
Nobody supports you like Mom, who has been with you since the start. That’s why this timeless song by The Jackson 5 is so special for the holiday.
Most popular lyric: “If you should ever find someone new. I know he better be good to you. ‘Cause if he doesn’t. I’ll be there”
33. “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry
With touching words like “She’s the sky that holds the clouds” and “She’s the lady of the house,” this song by The Band Perry is as heartfelt as the best Mother’s Day cards.
Most popular lyric: “She’s the sky that holds the clouds. She’s the lady of the house, a blind believer in all I dare to be. There’s no safer place I’ve found than the shoulder of her white night gown.”
34. “Turn to You” by Justin Bieber
Just before Mother’s Day in 2012, Justin Bieber released a single dedicated to his mom and single mothers everywhere. Pattie Mallette, Bieber’s mother, tweeted that the song made her cry, and proceeds from it to support single mothers.
Most popular lyric: “So when you’re lost and you’re tired, when you’re broken in two let my love take you higher ’cause I still turn to you.”
35. “In My Daughter’s Eyes” by Martina McBride
Another emotional song by Martina McBride that might bring tears to your eyes is “In My Daughter’s Eyes.” It’s a lovely song about the strength and fulfillment that comes from doing what’s best for your children.
Most popular lyric: “In my daughter’s eyes I am a hero. I am strong and wise and I know no fear. But the truth is plain to see. She was sent to rescue me. I see who I want to be in my daughter’s eyes.”
36. “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
Celine Dion’s exceptional singing always delights audiences, and this song will be particularly popular on Mother’s Day.
Most popular lyric: “You were my strength when I was weak. You were my voice when I couldn’t speak. You were my eyes when I couldn’t see. You saw the best there was in me.”
37. “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s song is about the little moments that make ordinary days with Mom special. She sings about memories like tractor rides, painting, and window shopping.
Most popular lyric: “I love you for giving me your eyes, for staying back and watching me shine. And I didn’t know if you knew, so I’m taking this chance to say that I had the best day with you today.”
38. “Where You Lead” by Carole King
If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, this song will bring back memories of Lorelai and Rory’s mother-daughter bond and their adventures in Stars Hollow. Even if you haven’t seen the show, this beautiful song captures the essence of following the guidance of mother figures.
Most popular lyric: “Where you lead, I will follow anywhere that you tell me to. If you need, you need me to be with you, I will follow where you lead.”
39. “Mamma Mia” by ABBA
When it’s time to dance, ABBA’s music is perfect for getting everyone up and moving. “Mamma Mia” is a great choice for a day dedicated to Mom.
Most popular lyric: “Mamma mia, it’s a game we play. Bye-bye doesn’t mean forever.”
40. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s version of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” is amazing no matter when you listen to it, but on Mother’s Day, it holds an even stronger meaning about the forever love between parents and their children.
Most popular lyric: I hope life treats you kind. And I hope you have all you’ve dreamed of. And I wish you joy and happiness. But above all this, I wish you love”
41. “That’s How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding
Listening to the soothing voice of Otis Redding is like receiving a warm hug from Mom. Enjoying this classic from 1965 will bring together people from different generations.
Most popular lyric: “I’ll be the ocean so deep and wide. And catch the tears whenever you cry. I’ll be the breeze after the storm is gone. To dry your eyes and love you warm”
42. “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton
Even though Dolly Parton doesn’t have kids, she lovingly sees herself as a mother figure to everyone. She’s a maternal icon you should listen to on Mother’s Day. Start with “Coat of Many Colors,” a touching song she wrote about her own mom, which shares similarities with the story of Joseph’s colorful coat in the Bible.
Most popular lyric: “Momma sewed the rags together, sewin’ every piece with love. She made my coat of many colors that I was so proud of.”
43. “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
Adele is adored by everyone for her unique voice and heartfelt lyrics, making her a great choice for a playlist that the whole family can enjoy.
Most popular lyric: “When the rain is blowing in your face. And the whole world is on your case. I could offer you a warm embrace. To make you feel my love.”
44. “You Can’t Lose Me” by Faith Hill
When you’re searching for the perfect music to celebrate Mother’s Day, consider listening to Faith Hill’s rendition. This song beautifully captures the idea of a mother’s unwavering love and support for her children, no matter what challenges they may face.
Most popular lyric: “You can’t lose me. Bet your life I am here, and I will always be. Just a wish away. Wherever you go, no matter how far, my love is where you are.”
45. “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
This song’s tear-jerking lyrics can repay your mom for all the years she was there for you. From the carpool days to college move-ins, his music captures the depth of gratitude and love you feel toward your mom, making it a perfect tribute to her on Mother’s Day.
Most popular lyric: “You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains. You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas. I am strong, when I am on your shoulders.”
46. “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina
In her song “Like My Mother Does,” Lauren Alaina beautifully captures the special bond between mothers and daughters. You can also enjoy the heartwarming music video, filled with touching home videos that will tug at your heartstrings.
Most popular lyric: “She’s a rock. She is grace. She’s an angel. She’s my heart and soul. She does it all.”
47. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Middler
Your mom has always been there to guide you, lift you up when you fell, and cheer you on as you soared. She’s truly the one who supports and inspires you, like the wind beneath your wings.
Most popular lyric: “Did you ever know that you’re my hero. And everything I would like to be?. I can fly higher than an eagle. For you are the wind beneath my wings.”
48. “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
Even though Rod Stewart sings this song (originally by Bob Dylan) about a father and son, mothers can also relate to its message. It’s a lively but emotional choice that might bring a tear to your eye.
Most popular lyric: “May good fortune be with you. May your guiding light be strong.”
49. “Mama Liked the Roses” by Elvis Presley
Elvis’s touching ballad, where he honors his late mother Gladys, reminds us that mothers express their love in countless small ways. It would be great if you sang it for your mother, right?
Most popular lyric: “Oh, mama liked the roses. But most of all she cared, about the way we learned to live and if we said our prayers.”
50. “(God Must Have Spent) A Little More Time on You” by *NSYNC
A classic 90’s ballad like this one from *NSYNC has a special charm that many people love. Even though it’s not directly about mothers, the band dedicated it to their moms as a way of saying thank you. It’s still a touching song that warms the heart.
Most popular lyric: “Your love is like a river. Peaceful and deep. Your soul is like a secret. That I never could keep”
51. “There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill
Your mother has been there for you in both happy and challenging times, and she’s bound to appreciate the compassionate and steadfast message conveyed in Faith Hill’s song “There You’ll Be.”
Most popular lyric: “In my dreams, I’ll always see you soar above the sky. In my heart, there’ll always be a place for you for all my life.”
52. “Dear Mama” by Tupac
Sometimes, the most important thing for mom to hear is a simple “You are appreciated,” just like Tupac says at the start of this song. The legendary rapper wrote these lyrics to honor all the things his mother did for him and the challenges she faced.
Most popular lyric: “And there’s no way I can pay you back, but my plan is to show you that I understand: you are appreciated.”
53. “Sweetest Devotion” by Adele
It’s a well-known fact that all moms adore Adele. So, there’s no surprise that your mom will love this Adele song about motherhood. The pop superstar, who became a mom to her son Angelo in 2012, recorded this beautiful track for her 2016 album.
Most popular lyric: “The sweetest devotion. Hitting me like an explosion. All of my life, I’ve been frozen. The sweetest devotion I’ve known.”
54. “Mama Tried” by Merle Haggard
If you know you caused your mom some trouble while growing up (and maybe even now), let Merle Haggard’s song tell her she did everything right.
Most popular lyric: “No one could steer me right but Mama tried, Mama tried. Mama tried to raise me better, but her pleading, I denied.”
55. “I Prefer Your Love” By St. Vincent
This touching song is inspired by St. Vincent’s own mother’s journey to recovery from an illness. St. Vincent beautifully captures the special bond and influence of a mother’s love, showing how her own mom shaped her into the person she is today.
Most popular lyric: “As a careless sun set it’s on the West. Sure as mother licking a finger.”
56. “Mother and Child Reunion” By Paul Simon
Apologize to your mom and promise to do better with this upbeat song. It’s inspired by a dish called “mother and child reunion” from a Chinese restaurant, but keep that to yourself when you add it to her Mother’s Day playlist.
Most popular lyric: “It’s a mother’s intuition to make a little space. It’s her quiet mission to tidy up her place. A mother’s intuition is like a kangaroo’s. She hops around, she mops the ground, she fusses over you.”
57. “The Wish” By Bruce Springsteen
This ballad starts off quietly, giving a glimpse into the Boss’s childhood, from ordinary to heartfelt moments, before bursting into a joyful celebration. It’s all inspired by his mom. In Springsteen’s tribute to her, he promises a night free of sad songs, and he delivers.
Most popular lyric: “And if it’s a funny old world, mama, where a little boy’s wishes come true, well I got a few in my pocket and a special one just for you.”
58. “December 4” By Jay-z
In this song, Jay-Z raps about his upbringing and journey to success, thanking his mom for always being there for him. The song is named after his birthdate and even includes his mom sharing her experiences of giving birth to him and her thoughts on his childhood.
Most popular lyric: “I was conceived by Gloria Carter and Adnis Reeves, who made love under the sycamore tree. Which makes me a more sicker emcee.”
59. “I’ll Always Love My Mama” By The Intruders
This catchy hit by The Intruders is all about showing love for mom. With its upbeat rhythm and soulful Philly sound, it’s guaranteed to lift your mom’s spirits (or anyone’s, really) and take them to a joyful place. Groovy indeed!
Most popular lyric: “She taught me little things like ‘Say Hello and Thank you, please’. While scrubbing those floors on her bended knees.”
60. “The Sweetest Gift” By Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris
In this touching 70s ballad, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt praise a mother’s unconditional love, even for her imprisoned son. The sweetest gift she gives is a warm smile, reminding us that we’re always our mama’s baby, no matter what.
Most popular lyric: “She left a smile you can remember. She’s gone to heaven from heartaches free. Those walls around you could never change her. You were her baby and e’er will be.”
61. “No Charge” By Shirley Caesar
The song’s idea of a son giving his mom a bill for the housework he’s done might seem a little strange at first. But when Shirley Caesar, also known as the First Lady of Gospel, sings the mother’s response, her powerful delivery will probably move you deeply.
Most popular lyric: “Paid in full. When you add it all up. The real cost of my love is no charge”
62. “Ring Off” By Beyoncé
Beyoncé offers strong emotional support for her mom in this song, which she wrote shortly after her parents’ divorce. The lyrics praise and empower her mom, showing how much she admires her mother.
Most popular lyric: “Always know that you’ve got a daughter that’s so, so proud you took the high road.”
63. “Mama” By Spice Girls
This pop group was all about celebrating girl power, so it’s no surprise they released this tribute to mothers. In the upbeat and heartfelt song, the group members reminisce about all the times their mothers supported them, even when they were misbehaving.
Most popular lyric: “Back then I didn’t know why you were misunderstood, Mama. So now I see through your eyes all that you did was love.”
Last Words from Loveable,
Mother’s Day songs are like musical hugs for moms, showing how much we love and appreciate them. Whether it’s an old favorite or a new tune, these songs remind us of the amazing bond between moms and their kids. So, as we celebrate moms everywhere, let’s use the power of music to say thank you for all they do.
