Mother’s Day means something different depending on who you’re talking to. Collectively, it’s a special day held once a year, meant to celebrate motherhood and its positive influence around the world.
You really don’t have to pressure yourself into conforming with societal standards of how this annual event should be celebrated—every mom is unique and, heck, everyday should be their day.
If there’s one undeniable fact, it’s that good music brings family closer. Today, try picking up a record or two and simply listening together with that amazing woman in your life. Here are some albums worth checking out.
The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
Something about this makes it a perfect introduction for family looking to bond. It’s timeless, and it sounds good, too. That cover art alone is a conversation piece, filled with memories past, and those about to be made.
Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
A true soul masterpiece, with the track “Respect” reminding us of how moms are strong, capable individuals deserving of high regard and fair treatment.
Jon Brion – Lady Bird
The soundtrack to an award-winning film teaching us that although familial relationships are rarely perfect, there are moms out there who try their best in the ways they know how.
Blue October – Home
Written on a tiny keyboard whilst driving through the California desert, this one’s a positive record about history and how that can be shaped into a bright future. That art is a painting of two of the band members’ parents’ first kiss.
Paramore – After Laughter
An example of old meeting new with successful results. Generation gaps shouldn’t be an excuse for hindering meaningful relationships.
Elvis Depressedly – New Alhambra
Together with Delaney Mills, singer-songwriter Mat Cothran creates a record influenced by his upbringing—here, he samples the likes of professional wrestling and religious TV shows, elements essential to his growing up.
Bob Dylan – Bringing It All Back Home
When Bob Dylan first went electric, fans were outraged. Just look where that got him. Here’s a reminder that although you and your mother’s tastes might differ, that doesn’t make one better than the other. Try to learn, and allow that to deepen your understanding of each other. It’s alright, Ma.
John Coltrane – My Favorite Things
Arguably one of the best renditions of this song, taken from a musical about a woman who brings kindness, joy, and music into the lives of seven children and a widower.
Various Artists – The Bob’s Burgers Music Album
Comedy worth bonding over, not just for the music, but for the entire sitcom as well. Have some laughs reminiscing moments from the adventures of a family running a burger joint, all with a fun, cool mom named Linda.
Mothers – When You Walk a Long Distance You Are Tired
A band called Mothers couldn’t possibly be excluded from this list. Born out of a solo project of lead singer Kristine Leschper, this record is about honesty. Raw and vulnerable, here’s something to listen with your mother.
Words by Kurvine Chua.