Top International Songs of Gratitude [2025]

Cat’s in the CradleHarry Chapin64rank/position

Cat’s in the Cradle

Though not widely known in Japan, Harry Chapin is highly regarded in his native United States not only for his talent as a musician but also for his energetic philanthropic work.

This is his biggest hit song.

Released in 1974, it reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

It’s also well known for being covered by the American rock band Ugly Kid Joe in 1993, becoming a revival hit.

From the title “Cat’s in the Cradle,” you might wonder, “Where’s the father element?” But through skillful turns of phrase and metaphors, it’s a folk-style piece that narratively portrays the relationship between father and son as if telling a story.

Give it a listen while thinking about the deeper meaning of the lyrics together with your dad.

Shooting StarOwl City65rank/position

Owl City – Shooting Star

The song by American artist Owl City is a heart-stirring anthem themed around the pursuit of hope and dreams.

Released in May 2012, it was included on the album The Midsummer Station and charted around the world.

It inspires listeners with courage and conveys the importance of believing in one’s own potential.

It was also featured in the 2013 animated film Escape from Planet Earth and the TV show Bella and the Bulldogs, gaining love from a wide audience.

It’s recommended for moments when you’re about to give up on your dreams or lose sight of yourself.

This is a track that gives you the strength to look forward.

I’m Already ThereLonestar66rank/position

Lonestar – I’m Already There (Message From Home)

A track released in 2001 by the American country music band Lonestar.

It’s about staying close in spirit even when you can’t be together physically.

The song is beloved by people who are apart from friends or family.

Letter 2 My Unborn2Pac67rank/position

2Pac – Letter 2 My Unborn

Tupac, a legendary hip-hop artist with overflowing talent who achieved brilliant success, met a tragic end in 1996 at the young age of 25.

Even after his death, he became known for the steady release of a vast trove of previously unreleased recordings.

This particular track is included on the 2001 album Until the End of Time.

Later released as a single, it’s a beloved classic whose mood captures Tupac’s melancholic, lyrical side.

Framed as a letter to a child yet to be born, the lyrics are deeply thoughtful and showcase his remarkable talent as a lyricist.

If you have a dad who loves hip-hop, it might be fun to put this song on and enjoy a drive together.

GoldBRITT NICOLE68rank/position

Britt Nicole – Gold

A powerful anthem of self-affirmation from American artist Britt Nicole.

Released in November 2012, the song reached No.

83 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Issued as a single from the album “Gold,” it served as a bridge between Christian pop and mainstream pop.

Its lyrics are appealing for the way they stay close to the listener’s heart and help you rediscover your worth.

It’s the perfect track for when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.

Britt Nicole’s warm voice is sure to encourage you.

MamaSpice Girls69rank/position

Spice Girls – Mama (Official Music Video)

The Spice Girls are a British female idol group that epitomized the 1990s.

As the title “Mama” suggests, it’s a song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of your beloved mother.

In the song, a somewhat strict image of a mother is portrayed at the beginning, but it then turns to the realization that it was all an expression of love, and the lyrics convey gratitude.

Set to a sound centered on acoustic guitar that symbolizes the ’90s British pop scene, the chorus features beautiful harmonies that are a must-hear.

Thank youIkimonogakari70rank/position

Arigatou – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

As the title “Arigatou” (“Thank You”) suggests, this song is all about expressing gratitude to one’s mother.

I think it would be wonderful if you could convey the appreciation that’s hard to say in everyday life while listening to this song.

Ikimono-gakari’s vocals are gentle and soothing, so if the two of you listen together and let the music heal you, it will make for a truly lovely time.