Last week, I found myself at my girlfriend’s place. I was picking her up to head out for a birthday lunch to celebrate another friend.
But as I stepped into her home, chaos greeted me in the form of her 2 and 5-year-old kids, being as toddlery as ever. This was no special moment. Screaming, laughing, and running seemed to be the order of the day. It was a scene that had played out in my home many times when my kids were little. It was almost as if they sensed their mom’s impending departure and decided to do all in their tiny power to thwart it.
My girlfriend was having none of it. Turning her back to the living room that held them captive, she wore a look of quiet determination. Amidst the pandemonium, she calmly packed her purse, stole kisses from her little ones over the baby gate, and made her way to the front door with unwavering determination.
Her husband, bless him, recognized the antics for what they were and had secured the kids. But then, the 5-year-old pulled off a daring stunt worthy of an Olympic hurdler. Scaling the baby gate in record time, she made a beeline for her mom, clinging to her leg with a mischievous cackle, declaring, “You’re not going anywhere!”
Undeterred, my friend continued to wrestle her foot into her boot. By the time her husband arrived to apprehend the escapee, she had gingerly plucked those chubby little kindergartner’s hands from around her calf and marched onward toward freedom.
As we stepped outside, she paused, taking a deep breath, a reflective expression crossing her face.
“Every day I wake up as a toddler parent,” she mused, “I genuinely wonder how I’m not an alcoholic.”
I had to laugh in response, “Because you know you know regardless of the hangover you’d still have to get up with these kids!”
Sometimes moms need reminding of why exactly we Mom
Motherhood is a rollercoaster ride of the good, the amazing, and the downright exhausting.
Whether knee-deep in toddler-wrangling, chasing younger kids, or braving the storm of teenage teenagery-ness, mothers are always doing the most. Every phase and stage is different. We survive bad advice for Toddler Parents and sometimes as parents of teens we need a Love letter from someone in the trenches with us during those teen years.
Then there are those times when — after a day of whatever parenting throws at me — moms really need reminding of the reasons we keep mom-ming.
Even the most regal of Queens among us occasionally needs reminding to adjust our crown.
And whether you are a mother, grandmother, auntie, or any other mother figure, it’s a role we don’t take for granted.Thank goodness for the power of a good song.
You know the ones. The songs that are like little musical hugs, faithfully celebrating and lifting up moms everywhere. The songs you want front and center at every Mother’s Day brunch or whenever family members gather to honour their matriarch.
They’re the tunes that bring tears to your eyes and warmth to your heart, reminding you just how special and irreplaceable your particular mom-ing truly is.
And yeah, they remind us of the beautiful reasons we keep doing all the things we just keep doing as moms.
Even the most regal of Queens among us occasionally needs reminding to adjust our crown.
Anytime is the right time for a playlist of songs that celebrate Black moms
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic for that classic song that takes you back to your childhood, searching for an anthem that pumps you up and celebrates strong women, or are simply in need of the best Mother’s Day songs, we’ve got you.
Anytime is the right time to celebrate mom-ing. Whether you’re sinking into a well-deserved bubble bath, conquering the formidable Laundry Mountain, or finding your center during the daily commute, you’ll find what you need in these songs. Sing along in the car with your kids or let these songs play softly in the background while you enjoy a cozy family meal. While some might make the perfect song to have wedding guests tearing up during those mother-son dances, others offer just the right sentimental lyrics for Mother’s Day celebrations or to help honour the memory of our mothers.
Some of these simply offer a better soundtrack to our Sunday.
Whatever the reason, these songs make the perfect accompaniment to moments both mundane and monumental.
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, by Aretha Franklin
Now I’m no longer doubtful, of what I’m livin’ for. And if I make you happy, I don’t need to do more.
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Aretha Franklin
Greatest Love of All, by Whitney Houston
I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. Give them a sense of pride to make it easier. Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be.
Greatest Love of All, Whitney Houston
Mother, by Ashanti
You taught me strength and you gave me guidance Whenever faith was lost, you were there to find it. And all because a mother’s love is unconditional
Ashanti, Mother
Uniquely uplifting anthems for Black mothers
Some songs do more to celebrate the unique experience of Black motherhood, and for me, some of these songs mean even more. They’re like our personal anthems that echo the strength, resilience, and unwavering love that has defined generations of Black mothers.
These songs speak to me because they can be sweet songs about the connection we feel to our children while holding space for the struggles of raising children in our skin. Songs help celebrate our victories and serve as a reminder of the beauty found in everyday moments as well as the profound legacy of a Black mother’s love and empowerment.
Dear Mama, by Tupac shakur
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.
Dear Mama, Tupac Shakur
Protector, by Beyoncé & Rumi Carter
Even though I know someday you’re gonna shine on your own. I will be your projector… And even though I know someday you’re gonna shine on your own. I will be your protector, born to be your protector.
Protector, Beyoncé & Rumi Carter
Superwoman, by Alicia Keys
For all the mothers fighting for better days to come. And all my women, all my women sitting here trying to come home before the sun. And all my sisters coming together. Say yes I will. Yes I can. ‘Cause I am a Superwoman.
Superwoman, Alicia Keys
Songs that celebrate the Mother-daughter bonds
There is no better way to celebrate the special bond between mothers and daughters than through the power of music. These songs are like a magical mixtape of emotions, blending empowering lyrics with heartstring-tugging melodies. They capture the essence of the mother-daughter relationship in all its beauty and complexity. From anthems that inspire us to stand tall and embrace our strength to ballads that tug at our heartstrings and bring tears to our eyes, these songs have it all. So, get ready to turn up the volume and let the music speak to the unbreakable bond between you and your mom or daughter.
My girl, The Temptations
I’ve got so much honey, the bees envy me. I’ve got a sweeter song, than the birds in the trees. Well, I guess you’d say – What can make me feel this way? My girl…
My Girl, The Temptations
Isn’t She Lovely, Stevie Wonder
I can’t believe what God has done. Through us, he’s given life to one. But isn’t she lovely, made from love.
Isn’t She Lovely, Stevie Wonder
Songs that celebrate the joy of raising Black sons
Ever found yourself listening to a song and secretly wishing you could raise a “mama’s boy” just like the one in the lyrics? You’re not alone! These emotional lyrics of these tributes, have us all yearning for that special bond between a mother and her son.
Whether it’s a heartfelt dedication for Mother’s Day or simply a reflection on the unique relationship between a mom and her boy, these tunes have a way of hitting us right in the feels. So, whether you’re a proud mom raising a son or the son of a remarkable mom, get ready to be moved by the heartwarming melodies and meaningful lyrics of these songs.
A song for mama, by Boyz II Men
Mama, you’re the queen of my heart. Your love is like tears from the stars… Mama, I just want you to know, lovin’ you is like food to my soul.
A Song for Mama, Boyz II Men
To Zion, by Lauryn Hill
How beautiful if nothing more than to wait at Zion’s door. I’ve never been in love like this before. Now let me pray to keep you from the perils that will surely come, see life for you, my prince has just begun. And I thank you for choosing me, to come through unto life to be. A beautiful reflection of his grace. See I know that a gift so great, is only one God could create.
https://youtu.be/SWz-RU3OtmA?si=pAzCU7ikdDKiqSuHTo Zion, Lauryn Hill
Look What You’ve Done, by Drake
Look what You’ve done in me. You spoke your truth into the lies I let my heart believe.
Look What You’ve Done, Drake
Mom’s Anthems: Songs That Celebrate the Heart and Soul of Black Motherhood
From the chaotic yet beautiful scene at my girlfriend’s house to my own journey through teenagery-ness, I can’t help but marvel at the resilience of mothers everywhere. Amidst the chaos, we deserve to celebrate our love, strength, and unwavering dedication.
No matter the time or place, any day is the best day to replenish our reservoirs of unconditional love. From movies like the timeless “Soul Food” to musical masterpieces like Lauryn Hill’s iconic album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” and the lyrical prowess of Tupac Shakur, these anthems uniquely and powerfully uplift Black mothers.
Whenever you need to, sink into some of motherhood’s greatest songs. Let them be a beautiful reminder to nourish your motherly soul. These songs have powerful messages that may soothe even the most taxed moms. So, the next time you need a reminder that your children are indeed little blessings, just press play.
And whether you are a mother, grandmother, auntie – or any other mother figure – when the playlist is over and you’re still looking for a little pick me up, check out these Powerful Affirmations for Black Parents.
