A lovely family song

“Thank you always”: English-language songs to give on Mother’s Day

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Introducing timeless Western songs brimming with love and gratitude for Mom—perfect for Mother’s Day!

For many of us, it can feel a bit embarrassing to say “thank you” to our moms face to face, even though they’re always there for us.

These are all classics that fans of Western music will love, and they’re also great as driving BGM when you take your mom to places she wants to go.

The selection spans a variety of songs that imagine moms in all sorts of situations, so check the reviews and find the Mother’s Day song that suits you best!

“Thank you, always”: Western songs to give on Mother’s Day (71–80)

Message to my motherHank Williams

Hank Williams – Message To My Mother (c.1950).

Message to my motherHank Williams

Singer-songwriter Hank Williams is regarded as one of the most important and influential American musicians of the 20th century.

He died at the young age of 29 from heart failure caused by alcohol and drug abuse.

His songs, which had a major impact especially on country music, have been covered by many artists.

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Upward Over the MountainIron&Wine

Iron & Wine – Upward Over The Mountain (Live on KEXP)

Upward Over the MountainIron&Wine

Iron & Wine is the stage name of singer-songwriter Samuel Beam.

I like his whispery vocals and solid guitar sound.

This song is written as an address to his mother, singing about memories—including some not-so-good ones—with her, and asking her not to worry about what he’s done and to forgive him.

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Mama Got AssJuvenile

Juvenile – Mama Got Ass (She Get It From Her Mama)

Mama Got AssJuvenile

Juvenile is a hip-hop artist who began recording when he was 19, and in 2008 he went through the harrowing experience of losing his daughter and his wife.

In this song of his, the lyrics take a slightly cynical view of a girl who always does what her mom says.

It seems the grip of a mother’s influence is strong for anyone.

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Like My Mother DoesLauren Alaina

Lauren Alaina – Like My Mother Does (Official Music Video)

Like My Mother DoesLauren Alaina

Country musician Lauren Alaina.

Her song “Like My Mother Does” is perfect for Mother’s Day.

The lyrics pay respect to a mother’s strength, beauty, and kindness, and they also express gratitude for everything she’s done in raising her child.

It could be a great surprise to play on Mother’s Day—the powerful vocals will create a moving atmosphere.

By the way, her mother appears in the music video.

How about enjoying this parent-child duet as a parent and child yourselves?

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My Mother & ILucy Dacus

Lucy Dacus -“My Mother & I” (Lyric Video)

My Mother & ILucy Dacus

This song by American indie rock singer Lucy Dacus is about memories with her mother from childhood.

Its emotional guitar arpeggios, beautiful sonics, and gentle vocals are striking, and you’ll surely get drawn into its unique world.

Lucy studied film in college, but left to pursue music.

It’s perfect to play during an afternoon tea break or as background music while driving with your mom—you might find yourselves reminiscing about the past.

It’s an ideal song for expressing gratitude to your mother.

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(God Must Have Spent) A Little More Time On YouNSYNC

*NSYNC – (God Must Have Spent) A Little More Time On You (Official Video)

(God Must Have Spent) A Little More Time On YouNSYNC

It’s a pop ballad by NSYNC, released as a single in 1999.

It was their first song to reach the Top 10 on the Billboard charts.

The music video, which incorporates black-and-white footage of a mother and child, is themed around life from birth to old age, touching on childhood memories, war, and returning home.

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Mother and Child ReunionPaul Simon

Paul Simon – Mother and Child Reunion (Official Audio)

Mother and Child ReunionPaul Simon

Paul Simon, a singer-songwriter globally renowned as a member of Simon & Garfunkel.

His 1972 release “Mother and Child Reunion” is a warm song perfect for expressing gratitude on Mother’s Day.

It’s crafted as reggae music unfolding with a ska rhythm.

The melodic chorus in the refrain will resonate with you.

Its poignant message, filled with feelings for one’s mother, is deeply moving.

Why not play this song along with the thanks that you might usually feel too shy to express?

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