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 (81–90)

Hot MamaTrace Adkins

Trace Adkins – Hot Mama (Official Music Video)

Hot MamaTrace Adkins

A 2003 single release by American country music singer Trace Adkins.

It reached No.

5 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles & Tracks.

The song was also used in an episode of the American animated TV series King of the Hill.

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Mummy’s BoyWretch 32

Wretch 32 – Mummy’s Boy (Official Video)

Mummy's BoyWretch 32

Mummy’s Boy is a track included on British rapper and singer-songwriter Wretch 32’s 2019 album Upon Reflection.

As the title suggests, it’s a song imbued with deep love for his mother.

I’m impressed by Wretch’s stance as he uses a powerful flow and lyrical writing to express the significance and influence of the important women in his life—especially his mother.

From pushing back against being mocked as a “mama’s boy” to praising his mother’s strength, it beautifully fuses hip-hop’s brand of masculinity with profound respect and affection for her.

It’s also a great song to play on Mother’s Day to express your appreciation.

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Thank You MomGood Charlotte

Thank You Mom

Thank You MomGood Charlotte

Good Charlotte is a band that’s gained popularity with easy-to-listen, catchy punk rock.

In Japan, they’re affectionately known as “Gusha.” Among their works, one I especially recommend is “Thank You Mom,” a song dedicated to mothers.

It portrays heartfelt gratitude toward a mother who always loved her son and kept teaching him what truly matters, no matter the circumstances.

The gentle, mellow-tinged punk rock sound pairs perfectly with the lyrics, so be sure to give it a listen.

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Always on the RunLenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz – Always On The Run (Official Music Video)

Always on the RunLenny Kravitz

Singer-songwriter Lenny Kravitz, whose genre-defying musicality has earned him high praise from hardcore music aficionados.

His style has elements reminiscent of Prince, and every track is crafted with a striking, distinctive character.

One of his classic songs about his mother is “Always on the Run.” It’s a unique piece featuring lyrics about a man who regrets not following his mother’s guidance, yet still feels deep gratitude toward her.

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I’ll Be ThereMac Miller

Mac Miller – I’ll Be There (feat. Phonte) (Official Audio)

I'll Be ThereMac Miller

This is a famous song by Mac Miller, an American rapper who passed away in 2018 at the young age of 26.

There are even rumors of an assassination since he died in the same way as Prince.

Maybe it was the work of Ariana Grande’s management, since she was supposedly two-timing him (just kidding)? “I’ll Be There” is an emotional track that expresses straightforward gratitude to his mother.

The track is a mellow, piano-centered piece, so even those who aren’t into hip-hop may find it easy to listen to.

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MamaThe Dream

Mama

MamaThe Dream

A song that mourns the passing of the artist’s mother and reflects on memories filled with love.

It is included on the 2007 debut album “Love Hate” by The-Dream, an American rapper and singer-songwriter.

The album also received positive reviews from music critics.

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“Thank you, always”: Western songs I want to give on Mother’s Day (91–100)

Thank you, momGood Charlotte

“Thank you, mom” – Good Charlotte

Thank you, momGood Charlotte

A track from the self-titled debut album by the American pop band Good Charlotte, released in 2000.

The song is dedicated by band members Joel and Benji Madden to their mother, who raised them on her own.

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In conclusion

I think many people find it embarrassing to express gratitude to their family.

For women, it might be easier to convey those feelings because they understand each other, but for men, telling their mothers “thank you” can feel a bit awkward.

In times like that, it might be nice to play one of the songs introduced in this article and subtly convey your appreciation.

At Rug Music, in addition to this article, we also feature songs themed around holidays like Father’s Day.

Be sure to check them out!