Happy Mother’s Day! Motherhood, with its unparalleled highs and poignant moments, has long served as inspiration for many of music’s most emotive songs. If you happen to need a musical hug or a melodious celebration of maternal love, this playlist I carefully crafted should do the trick. Each song resonates with the unique joys and challenges of being a mom. I hope these tunes stir your soul like they’ve stirred mine.
- “In My Daughter’s Eyes” by Martina McBride – Martina McBride’s tender ballad beautifully captures the way a mother sees herself reflected in her daughter’s eyes, full of hope and possibility.
- “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift – Taylor Swift’s touching tribute to her own mother, this song recounts special moments and the comforting presence of a mother’s support throughout her life.
- “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood – Carrie Underwood’s heartfelt lyrics reassure her mother that she’s found true love and will be cared for, echoing the protective love a mother feels.
- “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina – Celebrating the traits she hopes to inherit from her mother, Lauren Alaina’s song is a powerful homage to maternal influence.
- “Somebody’s Hero” by Jamie O’Neal – This song narrates the everyday heroism of mothers, from childhood through adulthood, highlighting the enduring strength and love of a mom.
- “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry – Here’s a whimsical and warm song that imagines a better world led by the kindness and wisdom of one’s own mother.
- “Mom” by Meghan Trainor featuring Kelli Trainor – Here’s a lively and affectionate pop tune that appreciates all the little and big ways a mom supports her kids. You know exactly what I’m talking about.
- “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion – Celine Dion’s powerful dedication to a supportive mother figure fits beautifully in this lineup, celebrating the empowering foundation a mother provides.
- “Two Black Cadillacs” by Carrie Underwood – While not a direct ode to motherhood, this song touches on themes of female strength and resilience, echoing the often untold stories of many mothers.
- “Sweetest Devotion” by Adele – Adele delivers a powerful message of the fierce, unconditional love a mother feels, wrapped in a soul-stirring melody that resonates with many. Hits a nerve, doesn’t it?
Each song on this playlist offers a heartfelt tribute to moms everywhere. Whether through lyrics that speak directly of a mother’s love or through themes of strength and perseverance, I believe these tracks are perfect for anyone looking to celebrate the essence of motherhood through music.
Every now and then, I discover a fellow music mom whose music and story are equally captivating. Recently, I was thrilled to find Laura Brino, a powerhouse indie folk-pop songstress whose new album Cactus Moon offers memorable melodies that tell a vivid narrative of her life’s trials and triumphs.
This collection of tunes is steeped in the essence of what Laura coins as #mompop, a genre that blends the rich, complex tales of womanhood and motherhood with catchy pop nuances. Here’s how Laura describes Cactus Moon:
“This album captures my own personal journey over the last five years; beginning as inspired and thought-provoking, then taking a deep dive into some heavy subjects and experiences. It ends feeling very empowered. It’s wild to be able to see how spot-on my own emotional rollercoaster is portrayed in this album.”
On that note, I am thrilled to shine a spotlight on Laura, her inspiring story, and her soul-stirring new album.
The Resonance of Resilience: Understanding the Stories Behind Cactus Moon
Laura’s path to creating Cactus Moon is evidence of her strength. The album emerged from a period marked by personal turmoil, including the traumatic birth of her daughter, grappling with PTSD, a loss to suicide, and the solitude brought on by a global crisis. In these moments of profound darkness, Laura found solace and light in music. Crafting this album became her sanctuary, a place to transform her pain into something beautiful. Something healing. Something we all can relate to. Listen to her soon-to-be hit single “Tether” and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.
Cactus Moon thus embodies a spectrum of deep emotions, from love and loss to recovery and rebirth, all while championing the new #mompop genre that elevates the voices and stories of mature women and mothers.
Intimacy in Innovation: The Creative Process
What strikes me most about Laura’s approach to Cactus Moon is her intimate method of music production. By choosing to record beside her sleeping children with nothing more than her iPhone and headphones, Laura blurred the lines between her roles as an artist and a mother. This tender proximity to her children not only influenced the technical aspects of her music but also deepened the emotional gravitas of each song. The result is a collection that resonates with the authenticity and tenderness of motherhood itself.
Harmonies of Healing and Discovery
At its core, Cactus Moon explores the deep seas of personal relationships and self-discovery. Tracks like “Without Me” and “Foreign Bodies” reflect on past loves and the complex evolution of relationships over time. Laura’s lyrics bridge the gap between personal experience and universal truths, offering listeners a powerful means of catharsis and connection through her exploration of love, the aging process, and the complicated process of reshaping identity.
Collaborative Chords: A Family Affair
The creation of Cactus Moon was a family affair, featuring contributions from Laura’s stepdaughter, husband, nieces, and daughter. This collaborative endeavor not only enriched the musical composition but also deepened familial bonds, emphasizing that art can be a collective healing process. The involvement of her family underscores the album’s theme of connection and support through shared creative expression.
A Symphony of Emotions: Empowerment Meets Introspection
Navigating through a wide range of emotions, Cactus Moon balances empowering anthems with introspective ballads, musically mirroring the ebb and flow of life’s journey. Laura’s ability to articulate the complexities of emotional landscapes provides a musical refuge for those facing similar challenges, making her songs a comforting companion along the path of personal exploration and resilience. I must admit: More than a few times I felt chills while listening to Laura pour her heart out. Prepare to be moved.
Motherhood and Music: Making an Enticing Rhythm All Its Own
Motherhood has profoundly transformed Laura as an artist, infusing her music with new perspectives and depth. This evolution speaks to me and likely to many other mothers, highlighting how our identities are continually reshaped by our experiences and our children. Laura’s journey encourages us to embrace these changes, finding new ways to express and understand ourselves through our creative outputs.
Cactus Moon: Echoing Hope and Unity
Looking ahead, Laura hopes that Cactus Moon will resonate as a source of comfort and joy, providing a space where listeners feel understood and less alone. Her ongoing projects and dedication to expanding the visual aspects of her music promise exciting developments for her audience.
Laura’s Cactus Moon is not just an album; it’s a shared experience worth immersing yourself in. A harmonious blend of vulnerability and strength, the album is a testament to the enduring power of music to heal, unite, and inspire.
As a music-making mom myself, I feel deeply connected to Laura Brino, her story, and her message. To me, she is the epitome of a passionate and devoted music mom—and I am honored to sing her praises.
We’ve all been there. We encounter some form of rejection or disappointment, and we start to think things will never get better. The reality? We can actually end up in a better life situation if we learn how to deal with our inevitable setbacks. For all you wonderful women juggling the demands of careers, motherhood, and personal goals, handling these moments with grace can be truly transformative.
On that note, I’ve put together 10 inspiring tips that’ll help you turn all the bad news and negative vibes into stepping stones that lead to success, growth, and empowerment.
1. Embrace Your Emotions
Allow yourself to fully feel your emotions, and remember: It’s okay to be upset or disappointed. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment and give yourself permission to process them. Recognizing and confronting your emotions is actually a sign of strength, so embrace all of them.
2. Practice Self-Compassion
Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a dear friend or family member. Speak to yourself with care and understanding. Self-compassion reinforces your resilience and helps you recover more quickly.
3. Seek Support
Don’t isolate yourself. Reach out to friends, family, or a support group that understands your aspirations and can offer genuine advice and comfort. Sometimes, the mere act of talking about disappointment can lighten your emotional load.
4. Reflect Objectively
Once you’ve allowed yourself to feel, take a step back and assess the situation from an objective standpoint. What can you learn from this experience? Are there areas for improvement, or was it simply a matter of circumstance?
5. Reframe the Experience
Instead of viewing rejection or disappointment as a failure, reframe it as a necessary step on the path to success. Each setback is an opportunity to grow and refine your approach. This positive mindset has fostered incredible success stories within the music industry and beyond.
6. Focus on Your Strengths
Redirect your focus towards your strengths and achievements. Building on your capabilities will boost your confidence and help you maintain perspective about one single event in the larger scheme of your journey.
7. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Break down your main objectives into smaller, more manageable tasks. Achieving these can help rebuild your confidence and motivate you to keep moving forward.
8. Stay True to Your Passion
Reconnect with the passion that drives you. Whether it’s music, art, teaching, or another field, remember why you started and let this passion fuel your resilience.
9. Maintain a Positive Outlook
Keep a positive attitude. This isn’t about ignoring the negatives, but about envisioning a future where this setback is merely a footnote in your larger story of success. Remember: Your story is still being written, and now is the time to determine its overall plot.
10. Prepare for the Next Opportunity
Use what you’ve learned to prepare for future opportunities. Improve your skills, expand your network, or tweak your strategies. Be proactive and ready when the next opportunity arises. It’s coming.
Rejection and disappointment are never pleasant, but they are universal experiences that we all endure. The key isn’t to avoid these moments; instead, it’s all about embracing them and growing from them.
When it comes to being a music mom, it’s not about how many times you stumble, but how many times you rise to face the music once more. Here’s to turning every frustrating setback into an invigorating comeback!
Ah, spring—a time when the earth awakens from its slumber, bursting forth with vibrant colors, sweet fragrances, and the promise of new beginnings. As music moms, we’re attuned to the rhythm of life, just like the melodies we orchestrate for our families. So, let’s tune into the harmonious lessons that spring graciously offers us, filling our hearts with warmth, optimism, and boundless inspiration.
1. Resilience in Renewal
Like the blossoming flowers pushing through the thawing ground, spring teaches us the power of resilience. Despite the harshness of winter, nature perseveres, reminding us that every ending carries the seed of a new beginning. Embrace change, as it is the melody of growth.
2. Celebrate Diversity
In spring, we witness a kaleidoscope of colors as flowers bloom in various shapes and sizes. Similarly, our families are a tapestry of diversity, with each member contributing their own unique hue to the symphony of life. Celebrate the differences that enrich our melodies with harmony.
3. Savor the Present Moment
Spring is a fleeting season, urging us to seize the moment and bask in its beauty. The same goes for our moments as music moms, from the laughter-filled playtimes to the quiet lullabies at bedtime. Embrace the present, for it’s where life’s sweetest melodies reside.
4. Nurture Growth
As tender buds unfurl into lush foliage, spring reminds us of the importance of nurturing growth—in our gardens and in our families. Water your dreams, cultivate your passions, and then watch them flourish alongside your kids.
5. Find Joy in Simplicity
The chirping of birds, the gentle breeze, the soft kiss of sunlight—spring revels in life’s simple pleasures. Amidst the hustle and bustle of motherhood, pause to find joy in the little moments, for they are the sweetest notes in life’s symphony.
6. Embrace Change with Grace
Spring is a season of transition, as winter yields to warmer days and longer nights. Embrace change with grace, knowing that each season of motherhood brings its own melody. Adapt, grow, and find beauty in the ever-changing rhythm of life.
7. Cultivate Gratitude
As nature blooms around us, spring reminds us to cultivate gratitude for the abundance in our lives. From the love of our families to the magical melodies that fill our hearts, cherish each note with gratitude and let it resonate throughout your soul.
As we welcome spring’s sacred symphony, it’s time to open our hearts to the season’s timeless lessons. May its melody inspire us to embrace resilience, celebrate diversity, and savor the beauty of every waking moment. Remember: In the concert of life, every season brings its own harmony; now it’s time to dance to the rhythm of spring! 🌷🎶💕
Black History Month is not just a time for reflection; it’s a celebration of the vibrancy, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of the African American community. From Aretha to Beyoncé, this music has always been a crucial element of this celebration, offering a medium to express joy, pride, and hope.
On that note, I’ve put together a playlist of 10 uplifting songs that perfectly capture all the joy and pride of Black History Month. I hope you enjoy this collection of tunes as much as I enjoyed putting it together.
1. Stevie Wonder – “Sir Duke”
A tribute to Duke Ellington, this joyful track celebrates the influence of Black musicians. Stevie Wonder’s energetic homage is a testament to the lasting impact of African American music.
2. Beyoncé – “Formation”
An empowering anthem that celebrates Black culture, heritage, and female strength. Beyoncé’s call to “get in formation” is a rallying cry for pride and solidarity.
3. Kirk Franklin – “Love Theory”
Kirk Franklin’s gospel hit is a joyful celebration of love and faith. Its uplifting message and vibrant energy make it a perfect addition to any Black History Month playlist.
4. Bob Marley & The Wailers – “One Love/People Get Ready”
This song’s message of unity and love is universal. Bob Marley’s fusion of reggae with Curtis Mayfield’s soul classic is a celebration of togetherness in the face of adversity.
5. Pharrell Williams – “Happy”
An infectious melody and joyful lyrics make “Happy” a global anthem for feeling good. Pharrell Williams’ hit is a reminder of the universal power of happiness and positivity.
6. Alicia Keys – “Superwoman”
This ballad is a tribute to the strength and resilience of women, especially Black women. Alicia Keys’s empowering lyrics and soulful voice celebrate the superwoman in every woman.
7. John Legend & The Roots – “Wake Up Everybody”
A cover of the Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes classic, this track is a call to action and awakening. John Legend’s smooth vocals urge listeners towards positive change and awareness.
8. Aretha Franklin – “Amazing Grace”
Aretha Franklin’s rendition of this timeless hymn is nothing short of spiritual. Her powerful voice brings a new depth to the song, celebrating faith and resilience.
9. Common & John Legend – “Glory”
From the soundtrack of Selma, this Oscar-winning song is a stirring tribute to the civil rights movement. Its hopeful message is a reminder of how far we’ve come and the glory that lies ahead.
10. Solange – “Almeda”
Solange’s “Almeda” is a powerful celebration of Black culture and identity, highlighting the beauty and resilience within the Black community.
Hello, friends. Whether you’re a painter with a passion for colors, a writer who weaves words, or a musician who speaks in melodies, finding your creative voice is like uncovering a hidden treasure within you. It’s your signature, your soul’s fingerprint in the world of art. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery with seven tried-and-true tips for finding your creative voice.
1. Listen to Your Heartbeat
Your voice is the echo of your inner self. Spend time in quiet contemplation. What moves you? What stirs your passion? It could be the laughter of kids, the rustling of leaves, or the rhythm of city life. These heartbeats are the first notes of your creative symphony.
2. Embrace Your Unique Story
Every one of us has a story that’s uniquely ours. Your experiences, dreams, and struggles are the colors of your palette. Don’t be afraid to paint boldly with them. Remember: No one else can narrate your story the way you can. Your life is your most authentic script, so follow it closely.
3. Be Curiously Playful
Creativity thrives in relaxed playfulness. Experiment with new styles, mediums, or genres. Write a poem if you’re a dancer. Draw if you’re a singer. This cross-pollination of arts can unearth aspects of your voice you never knew existed. Think of it as a creative sandbox—the more you play, the more you discover!
4. Connect and Reflect
Engage with other creative souls. Share your work, listen to their stories, and soak in their feedback. Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes or ears can help you see or hear what you might have missed. Reflect on this feedback, but remember, the final brushstroke should always be yours.
5. Celebrate Your Evolution
Your voice isn’t static; it evolves as you grow. What resonated with you a year ago might not connect with you today—and that’s perfectly fine. Embrace this evolution as part of your journey. Your voice today is just a chapter in your ongoing story.
6. Silence the Critics (Especially the Inner Ones)
Ah, the critics. Sometimes, they’re around us; other times, they’re within us. While constructive criticism can be valuable, don’t let it drown out your voice. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to break the norms. The world doesn’t need another echo; it needs you and your unique sound.
7. Live Your Art
Finally, let your creativity seep into your daily life. Let it influence how you dress, how you decorate your space, and how you express yourself. When your life becomes a canvas, your voice naturally strengthens and becomes more distinct.
Remember, finding your voice is a journey, not a destination. It’s a song that keeps composing itself, a canvas that continuously evolves. So, keep exploring, keep creating, and most importantly, keep being you. Your voice is not just what you create; it’s the essence of your creative spirit. Let it sing. Let it paint. Let it dance.
Winter, with its frosty charm and cozy evenings, isn’t just a season; it’s a masterclass in life. As moms, we juggle the symphony of our families’ lives, much like a maestro conducts an orchestra. Here are six winter-inspired lessons that resonate with the distinct rhythm of motherhood.
- Embrace the Silence
Winter teaches us the beauty of stillness. In those quiet moments, when the world seems to pause under a blanket of snow, we find clarity. It’s in the silent gaps between our busy schedules, the pauses between the notes, where the magic happens. Cherish the quiet—it’s where we often hear the most important things, like the soft giggle of a child or the whisper of our own thoughts. - Rhythms Change
Just as winter gives way to spring, our lives follow changing rhythms. The lullabies of the infant years transform into the rock anthems of the teenage era. Embrace each season of motherhood, knowing that each brings its own melody and memories. And remember, no matter how long the winter, spring always follows. - Gather Around the Fire
Winter is synonymous with gathering around the warmth of a fire. This is a reminder to cherish our community: family, friends, fellow music moms. Share stories, sing songs, and bask in the warmth of each other’s company. The bonds we forge are the embers that keep the cold at bay. - Layer Up
Winter teaches us the art of layering up to combat the cold. In life, it’s about building layers of experience, resilience, and love. Each layer, from the thin cardigans of daily challenges to the thick parkas of life’s major hurdles, prepares us for whatever the weather of life throws at us. - Appreciate the Contrast
Winter’s stark landscape, with its bare trees against the snow, shows us beauty in contrast. In our lives, it’s the contrast between hectic days and calm evenings, between solo rehearsals and ensemble performances, that creates a beautiful tapestry. Celebrate the contrasts; they make the picture complete. - The Promise of Renewal
Finally, winter carries the promise of renewal. Each snowflake, unique and fleeting, reminds us of the preciousness of each moment. It’s a time to reflect, to rest, and to prepare for the burst of energy that comes with spring. As moms, it’s a chance to renew our commitment to our families and to the music that moves us.
As the winter season unfolds, let’s tune our hearts to these lessons. They’re more than just survival tips for the colder months; they’re melodic words of wisdom for the soul, harmonizing perfectly with the symphony we call motherhood.
So stay warm, stay cheerful, and keep the music playing all winter long! 🎵❄️🔥
As the aroma of turkey and pumpkin pie fills the air, it’s time to set the stage for a Thanksgiving celebration filled with gratitude, joy, and, of course, the perfect musical backdrop. In this blog post, I’m excited to share with you a handpicked list of 15 country and pop songs that perfectly capture the spirit of Thanksgiving.
So, gather your loved ones, cue the tunes, and let the sweet sounds of thanks fill your home!
- “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” – Sly and the Family Stone
- Let’s kick things off with a funky classic. Sly and the Family Stone’s upbeat “Thank You” is a groovy reminder to be thankful for the good times and the music that brings us together.
- Listen Here
- “Grateful” – Rita Ora
- Rita Ora’s soulful “Grateful” is a beautiful expression of gratitude and reflection. Its powerful lyrics remind us to appreciate the journey and the people who make it special.
- Listen Here
- “Simple Things” – Miguel
- Thanksgiving is about appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Miguel’s “Simple Things” is a smooth and soulful ode to finding joy in the uncomplicated moments we often overlook.
- Listen Here
- “Thanksgiving Theme” – Vince Guaraldi Trio
- You can’t go wrong with a classic. The Vince Guaraldi Trio’s jazzy “Thanksgiving Theme” from “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” is a nostalgic tune that adds a touch of whimsy to your holiday ambiance.
- Listen Here
- “Thanksgiving Song” – Mary Chapin Carpenter
- Mary Chapin Carpenter’s heartfelt “Thanksgiving Song” is a folksy gem that paints a picture of a warm and inviting holiday gathering. Its acoustic charm and genuine lyrics make it a Thanksgiving must-have.
- Listen Here
- “Blessings” – Chance the Rapper
- Chance the Rapper’s “Blessings” is a rap anthem that reflects on gratitude and the blessings we often take for granted. Its uplifting message and soulful beats make it an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
- Listen Here
- “Over the River and Through the Woods” – The O’Neill Brothers Group
- Taking a nod from the traditional Thanksgiving song, The O’Neill Brothers Group’s piano rendition of “Over the River and Through the Woods” brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your holiday atmosphere.
- Listen Here
- “Give Thanks and Praises” – Bob Marley
- Bob Marley’s reggae-infused “Give Thanks and Praises” is a soul-stirring call to appreciate life’s blessings and express gratitude. Its laid-back rhythm and positive vibes make it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
- Listen Here
- “Thanksgiving Day” – Ray Davies
- Ray Davies, the legendary voice of The Kinks, brings us “Thanksgiving Day,” a reflective song that captures the essence of the holiday. Its melodic charm and Davies’ distinctive vocals make it a unique and enjoyable Thanksgiving tune.
- Listen Here
- “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong
- Closing our musical Thanksgiving journey is the timeless “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. This classic celebrates the beauty of life, love, and the simple joys that surround us—a perfect note to end your Thanksgiving celebration on.
- Listen Here
- “Thankful” – Kelly Clarkson
- Kelly Clarkson’s “Thankful” is a pop anthem that echoes the sentiment of gratitude. Its upbeat tempo and powerful vocals make it a spirited addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
- Listen Here
- “Forever Country” – Artists of Then, Now & Forever
- A country tribute featuring multiple artists, “Forever Country” is a harmonious blend of classic country tunes. It’s a heartwarming addition to your Thanksgiving playlist, celebrating the rich heritage of country music.
- Listen Here
- “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” – John Denver
- John Denver’s upbeat and folksy “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a lively addition to your Thanksgiving playlist. Its cheerful melody and spirited lyrics will have everyone tapping their toes.
- Listen Here
- “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep” – Bing Crosby
- Bing Crosby’s timeless voice in “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep” is a classic choice for a Thanksgiving playlist. Its soothing melody encourages reflection on the blessings in our lives.
- Listen Here
- “My Front Porch Looking In” – Lonestar
- Lonestar’s country hit “My Front Porch Looking In” is a heartfelt song about appreciating life’s simple joys. Its warm and sincere tone makes it a fitting choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.
- Listen Here
As you gather around the table with loved ones and give thanks for the blessings in your life, I hope these songs will create a mood that enhances the warmth and joy of the occasion.
Wishing you and your family a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and the sweet melodies of gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Halloween, my fellow moms and music lovers! It’s time to brew up some musical magic for our little ones. Halloween isn’t just about costumes and candy—it’s also a fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to the fun side of music with a specially curated playlist.
On that note, I’m sharing a “Spooktacular Tunes for Tiny Ghouls” playlist—a collection of 13 kid-appropriate Halloween songs that will have your youngsters grooving and giggling in no time. From playful monsters to dancing skeletons, we’ve got all the ingredients to make your Halloween celebration a memorable and melodic one.
So, grab your broomsticks, and let’s dive into this burning musical cauldron!
- “Monster Mash” – Let’s kick things off with a classic. The Monster Mash is a graveyard smash that’s perfect for a Halloween dance party. Get ready to do the monster mash, folks!
https://youtu.be/vNuVifA7DSU - “Purple People Eater” – Ever wondered what a one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple people eater does? This catchy tune will answer that question with a playful twist.
https://youtu.be/5jV-E09efRE - “Ghostbusters” – Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! This theme song is iconic, and your kids will love joining the ghost-hunting fun.
https://youtu.be/Fe93CLbHjxQ - “Thriller” – A Halloween playlist without “Thriller”? Unthinkable! Let your little ones practice their best zombie dance moves.
https://youtu.be/sOnqjkJTMaA - “The Addams Family Theme” – Snap, snap! The Addams Family theme is quirky and catchy, making it a must-have for your Halloween soundtrack.
https://youtu.be/X6QzbvH-ZNo - “This Is Halloween” – From the movie “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” this song is delightfully spooky and utterly captivating.
https://youtu.be/ZVuToMilP0A - “Witch Doctor” – Oo-ee-oo-ah-ah, ting, tang, walla-walla-bing-bang! This song’s infectious rhythm is guaranteed to get the kids moving.
https://youtu.be/L95bykOhsVw - “I Want Candy” – Halloween and candy are practically synonymous. This song adds a sweet and catchy twist to the celebration.
https://youtu.be/JoXVYSV4Xcs - “Ghost Riders in the Sky” – A little bit of country with a ghostly twist. Johnny Cash’s deep voice tells a captivating Halloween tale.
https://youtu.be/3LtmZM0OWO8 - “The Skeleton Dance” – Get ready to dance with skeletons in this playful and educational song that teaches kids the names of different bones.
https://youtu.be/Pbl4BNkAq_U - “Purple People Eater Meets the Witch Doctor” – What happens when the purple people eater meets the witch doctor? A toe-tapping, hilarious song your kids will adore.
https://youtu.be/ieW-VsXt9qs - “Halloween at Freddy’s” – If your kids are into Five Nights at Freddy’s, they’ll love this catchy and slightly spooky tune.
https://youtu.be/L8V9YJ0mQ4I - “The Witch Is in the House” – This quirky song is like a musical storybook, and it’s perfect for setting a Halloween mood.
https://youtu.be/hQ6iq1a1_oU
Now that you have your Halloween playlist ready, it’s time to set the stage for a fantastic Halloween celebration. Whether you’re hosting a costume party, decorating pumpkins, or just enjoying some spooky treats, these songs will add a bewitching soundtrack to your festivities. Let your kids dance and sing—all while their imaginations run wild with these kid-friendly Halloween tunes.
Wishing you and your favorite folks a spooky (and splendid) Halloween!
As moms, we are always on the lookout for creative and meaningful ways to teach our kids important life lessons. With its captivating blend of melody and rhythm, music offers a unique platform for imparting wisdom that extends far beyond the confines of musical notes. In this post, I’m sharing seven essential lessons that kids can learn through the enriching experiences of playing, writing, and performing music.
1. Discipline and Practice
Lesson: Success requires dedication and consistent effort.
Learning to play a musical instrument demands discipline and practice. Kids quickly realize that to master a piece, they must invest time and effort. This lesson transcends the practice room, instilling the value of perseverance and hard work in all aspects of life.
2. Creativity and Expression
Lesson: Embrace your uniqueness and express yourself authentically.
Music serves as a canvas for creativity. When kids write their own songs or experiment with musical improvisation, they learn to embrace their unique ideas and express themselves authentically. This lesson encourages them to think outside the box and trust in their creative instincts. One of our goals as moms should be to pull all that bottled up creativity out of our children so they can shine.
3. Collaboration and Teamwork
Lesson: Success often involves working together.
Ensemble playing, whether in a band, orchestra, or choir, teaches kids the importance of collaboration. They must listen, adapt, and harmonize with others to create beautiful music – or, if they’re just beginning, something resembling a cohesive sound. This experience fosters teamwork skills that are invaluable in school, relationships, and future careers.
4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Lesson: Mistakes are opportunities for growth.
In the world of music, mistakes are an integral part of the learning process. And we all know they’re going to happen. Kids discover that setbacks are not failures but stepping stones toward improvement. This resilience serves them well in facing challenges with a positive attitude.
5. Confidence and Performance Skills
Lesson: Self-assurance and effective communication are keys to success.
Taking the stage to perform music can be a transformative experience for kids. It nurtures self-confidence and hones their ability to communicate effectively, not just through words but also through their music. These skills empower them to face audiences and life’s challenges with poise.
6. Patience and Attention to Detail
Lesson: Excellence is achieved through careful attention to detail.
When practicing music, children learn the value of patience and meticulous attention to detail. They discover that the smallest nuances can significantly impact the overall performance. This lesson translates into a keen eye for detail in academics and everyday tasks.
7. Time Management and Organization
Lesson: Balancing commitments is key to success.
Maintaining a practice schedule alongside school and other activities requires effective time management. Kids learn to prioritize tasks, set goals, and manage their time efficiently, skills that prove invaluable in juggling responsibilities later in life.
Final Thoughts
The world of music offers a rich tapestry of life lessons for our kids. Whether they’re mastering an instrument, composing their own melodies, or performing on stage, these experiences teach them discipline, creativity, collaboration, resilience, confidence, patience, and effective time management.
So, let’s encourage our young musicians to continue playing, writing, and performing, for in the process, they are not only creating beautiful (mostly!) melodies but also shaping themselves into well-rounded, resilient, and confident individuals.
With the lazy days of summer now in our rearview mirror, the whirlwind of back-to-school preparations is in full swing. But fear not: With a sprinkle of organization and a dash of cheerful tunes, you can transform this bustling time of year into a smooth and enjoyable transition for the whole family.
In this blog post, I’m sharing five back-to-school tips perfectly paired with fitting songs to keep your sanity intact and those school mornings as harmonious as a well-orchestrated melody. Have a wonderful school year!
1. Rise and Shine With a Routine
- Set a consistent wake-up time to establish a healthy routine.
- Create a morning checklist for your kids to keep them on track.
- Play “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles to infuse positivity into your mornings.
2. Prep Like a Pro
- Plan outfits the night before to avoid early morning chaos.
- Pack lunches and backpacks in advance.
- Groove to “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves while prepping.
3. Create a Homework Haven
- Designate a quiet and organized space for homework.
- Keep supplies within reach to minimize distractions.
- Accompany study sessions with the soothing melody of “Imagine” by John Lennon.
4. Triumph Over Time Management
- Use a family calendar to keep track of activities and events.
- Teach kids the importance of managing their time effectively.
- “Clocks” by Coldplay is a fitting reminder of the value of time.
5. Celebrate and Unwind
- Acknowledge achievements, both big and small.
- Set aside quality family time for relaxation and fun.
- Wind down to the soothing sounds of “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the back-to-school season doesn’t have to be a cacophony of stress. With these five tips and accompanying tunes, you can orchestrate a symphony of harmony and joy in your household. From waking up with a positive melody to celebrating accomplishments, this time of year can be a melodious adventure for the whole family.
So, remember to hit play on these tunes and let the music of organization and celebration guide you through the back-to-school transition.
Summer and music go hand in hand, as they create the perfect soundtrack for all of our fun-filled adventures and magical memories. On that note, I’m excited to share with you some of my favorite country and pop classics that’ll transport you back to the carefree summers of years gone by. From ABBA to Weezer, these timeless tunes will have you singing along and dancing like nobody’s watching (they’re not – are they?).
So, grab your shades, crank the volume way up, and let’s dive into the ultimate summer jams.
- “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and The Waves (1985
- “Island in the Sun” – Weezer (2001)
- “Dancing Queen” – ABBA (1976)
- “Margaritaville” – Jimmy Buffett (1977)
- “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show (2004)
- “California Girls” – The Beach Boys (1965)
- “Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams (1984)
- “Hot Fun in the Summertime” – Sly & The Family Stone (1969)
- “Kokomo” – The Beach Boys (1988)
- “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor (1978)
Now that you have some songs to keep you and your favorite folks moving and grooving, I hope you have a great rest of your summer!
The Music Mom: Eileen Carey 