100 Best Mother Son Dance Songs + Lyric Quotes

Updated on January 31, 2023 | Written by Matthew Campbell (Editor of My Wedding Songs and wedding DJ)

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Every mother dreams of the day when she can dance with her son at his wedding.

The mother-son dance is a memorable moment during the reception with the groom and the groom’s mom — just like the father-daughter dance (aka parent dances).

It’s a beautiful thing to watch on the dance floor and a great way to celebrate your love for each other.

It can be quite a tear-jerker, in fact, or a memorable uplifting moment.

You will enjoy a list of the most popular and unique mother-son dance songs for your reception so that you can select the best song.

Every couple’s music tastes are different. You just have to find the right song for you.

Thus, we selected mother-son dance songs that include many different eras and genres.

It’s a good idea to listen to the lyrics and select a love song or a special song that tells your story.

 

My Top 10 Best Mother Son Dance Songs

1. “Days Like This” by Dermot Kennedy
2. “That’s What Mamas Are For” by Chris Lane
3. “I Love You Mom” by Jackson Nance
4. “I Called Mama” by Tim McGraw
5. “Mama Ain’t Jesus” by Jordan Rowe, Lainey Wilson
6. “Boy” by Caleb and Kelsey
7. “My Little Boy” by Chris Jasper feat. Margie Jasper
8. “No Matter What” by Calum Scott
9. “Everything” by Matthew John
10. “Mother” by Michael Bublé

Play Mother and Son Playlist

What are the popular mother and son dance songs by genre?

Indie

Sorry Mom – The Band CAMINO

Released in 2021 on the album The Band CAMINO, Genre: Indie
Lovable Lyrics: “I don’t know if there’s a God / Sometimes I try to act like I don’t know right from wrong / I’m sorry Mom”
Why Play: An introspective look at the life led and the person becomes. A hope I can make you proud of me in your mom’s eyes.

I Love This Dance – Caleb Beachy

Released in 2021 on the album Wedding Songs, Genre: Indie
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re my biggest fan that’s why / I love this dance”
Why Play: A song written specifically for a mother and son dance.

House of Gold – 21 Pilots

Released in 2011 on the album Regional at Best, Genre: Indie
Lovable Lyrics: “She asked me, Son when I grow old / Will you buy me a house of gold? / And when your father turns to stone / Will you take care of me? / I will make you / Queen of everything you see”
Why Play: A fun song for a mother and son and talks about the son taking care of his mother when she gets old.

You’ve Got A Friend – James Taylor

Released in 1971 on the album Tapestry, Genre: Indie
Lovable Lyrics: “Winter, spring, summer or fall / All you have to do is call / And I’ll be there”
Why Play: A mid-tempo song talking about how lucky you are to be loved by the other.

If you have selected a mother-son dance, don’t forget about the bride! Plan a father-daughter dance with a special song.

Pop

superhuman – Bishop Briggs

Released in 2022 on the album superhuman
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re superhuman / Bulletproof as can be / I know the truth is / You can do anything”
Why Play: A song dedication from a mom to her son that he can be whomever he wants to be and she believes in him.

You Will Always Be My Son – Caleb and Kelsey

Released in 2022 on the album Sing over Me: Songs for Parents and Their Little Ones, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “And no matter what this life might bring / I want you to know that you will always be / You will always be my son”
Why Play: A song about raising a son and wanting the best for him and loving him unconditionally.

Mother – Michael Bublé

Released in 2022 on the album Higher, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “Mother, a fighter and a lover / Everything I’ll ever have and all I am is because of you / And there’s no other, the place where we take cover / And I know everybody’s saying they got the best one / But that ain’t true / ‘Cause I do”
Why Play: A song from a son’s view of how proud he is to have the type of mother he has.

You’ll Be in My Heart – Brent Morgan

Released in 2021 on the album You’ll Be in My Heart, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “No matter what they say / Yes, you’ll be in my heart / Always”
Why Play: Originally released by Phil Collins. A song about loving someone and wanting to protect them.

My Hero – Westlife

Released in 2021 on the album Wild Dreams, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “And I want you to know that I feel like / You are my hero”
Why Play: A song giving tribute to a loved one that they are thankful for what they have done.

Call My Name – Lukas Graham

Released in 2021 on the album Call My Name, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “Don’t matter when or where / Just know that I’ll be right there / Call my name”
Why Play: A song offering support and being there no matter what.

No Matter What – Calum Scott

Released in 2018 on the album Only Human, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “She wrapped her arms around me / Said, “Don’t try to be what you’re not / ‘Cause I love you no matter what”
Why Play: A song speaking about a mom loving her son no matter who they are.

Everything – Matthew John

Released in 2018 on the album Everything, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “You taught me everything / How to tell what’s wrong from right / You gave me everything / Made me who I am inside”
Why Play: A very personal song written for a Mom and son relationship and her loving him for who he is.

Sweetest Devotion – Adele

Released in 2015 on the album 25, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re my light, you’re my darkness / You’re the right kind of madness / And you’re my hope, you’re my despair”
Why Play: A song from the mom’s view and how her child is her shining star.

Mama – Lunchmoney Lewis

Released in 2015 on the album Bills – EP, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “This song is dedicated to my mama / Taught me how to put on my pajamas / Always let me have a couple dollars / And told me that my dreams I better follow”
Why Play: A fun party song to dance with your mom that talks about how much her son loves her.

The One Thing – Shakira

Released in 2014 on the album Shakira, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “Every time I see your smile / Every time I hear your laugh / Baby, you bring a new sunshine over my way”
Why Play: A song about how someone makes you happy and is the joy of your life.

All To You – Scott Keo

Released in 2012 on the album All To You, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “I may not say I love you as much as I could / But you’ve got to know this one thing is true / The person I’ve become and all I am I owe it all to you”
Why Play: A song giving thanks to the one who raised him and saying how much he loves her.

Halo – Beyonce

Released in 2009 on the album I Am… Sasha Fierce, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “But I never really had a doubt / Standing in the light of your halo / I got my angel now”
Why Play: Even though the song was talking about a partner love relationship, it could describe a parent-child love and how angelic they are to each other.

The Man You’ve Become – Molly Pasutti

Released in 2008 on the album Yours, Mine & Ours, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “For the great things you will do / I’ll be blessed cause you’re my son / But I’ll always see the boy”
Why Play: A song from the mom’s viewpoint about how proud she is of the man her son has become.

Never Alone – Jim Brickman feat. Lady A

Released in 2007 on the album Escape, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “I’ll be in every beat of your heart / When you face the unknown / Wherever you fly / This isn’t goodbye”
Why Play: A song about always being there for each other even though the son is starting a new life.

Do I Make You Proud – Taylor Hicks

Released in 2006 on the album Do I Make You Proud, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “This is what we dream about / But the only question with me now / Is do I make you proud”
Why Play: From the American Idol winner, a song from a child to a parent asking if they make them proud.

Thank You – Dido

Released in 2000 from the Sliding Doors Soundtrack, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “And I want to thank you / For giving me the best day of my life”
Why Play: A song giving thanks for the best day of your life being the day you met.

Perfect Fan – Backstreet Boys

Released in 1999 on the album Millennium, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “You showed me / Just how to walk without your hands / ‘Cause Mom you always were / The perfect fan”
Why Play: A song about a parent being there supporting their child through life.

You’ll Be In My Heart – Phil Collins

Released in 1999 on the Tarzan Soundtrack, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “Yes, you’ll be in my heart / From this day on / Now and forever more”
Why Play: A song about being there for each other through thick and thin.

Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion

Released in 1996 from the album Falling Into You, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “You gave me faith ’cause you believed / I’m everything I am / Because you loved me”
Why Play: A song about being thankful for who you are because of who loved you (mom).

Blessed – Elton John

Released in 1995 on the album Made In England, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “I need you before I’m too old / To have and to hold / To walk with you and watch you grow / And know that you’re blessed”
Why Play: A song about a parent being blessed by having a wonderful child.

A Song For My Son – Mikki Viereck

Released in 1991 on the album New Wedding Traditions, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “You filled my life / With so much joy / As I watched you grow / From that little boy”
Why Play: A song made specifically for a mother-son dance and their relationship.

Forever Young – Rod Stewart

Released in 1988 on the album Out of Order, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “May your guiding light be strong / Build a stairway to Heaven / With a prince or a vagabond”
Why Play: The song was written as a dedication from Stewart to his kids.

The Wonder Of You – Elvis Presley

Released in 1970 on the album The Wonder of You, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “And you’re always there to lend a hand / In everything I do / That’s the wonder / The wonder of you”
Why Play: A song about love and adoration for another and how they make life better by just smiling.

Your Song – Elton John

Released in 1970 on the album Elton John, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “I know it’s not much, but it’s the best I can do / My gift is my song and this one’s for you”
Why Play: A song about how this song is “our song” made just for you.

What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

Released in 1967 on the album What a Wonderful World, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “The bright blessed days, the dark sacred nights / And I think to myself / What a wonderful world”
Why Play: An airy song about how happy you are with your life.

God Only Knows – Beach Boys

Released in 1966 on the album Pet Sounds, Genre: Pop
Lovable Lyrics: “I may not always love you / But long as there are stars above you / You never need to doubt it”
Why Play: The song is actually a break-up song but it could be about a son starting his new life and breaking away from his home to be on his own.

Not every wedding is standard. If your father “re-married”, take a look at our list of stepmom and stepson songs.

Christian

Boy – Caleb and Kelsey

Released in 2019 on the album Sing over Me: Songs for Parents and Their Little Ones, Genre: Christian
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re gonna drop the ball / Hit the wall / And break some hearts like glass / I know you will, ’cause you’re a part of me / And a part of you will always be a boy”
Why Play: A song first released by Lee Brice. A song about how the son will always be mama’s little boy no matter their age.

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus – Alan Jackson

Released in 2006 on the album Precious Memories, Genre: Christian
Lovable Lyrics: “His word shall not fail you, He promised / Believe Him and all will be well”
Why Play: An inspirational hymn – you can believe that Jesus is there to take away all of your pain.

Find Your Wings – Mark Harris

Released in 2005 on the album The Line Between the Two, Genre: Christian
Lovable Lyrics: “I’m here for you whatever this life brings / So let my love give you roots / And help you find your wings”
Why Play: A song from a parent to a child hoping they find their way in life.

I Will Be Here – Steven Curtis Chapman

Released in 2003 on the album More to This Life, Genre: Christian
Lovable Lyrics: “When you need to speak your mind / I will listen / And I will be here / When the laughter turns to crying / Through the winning, losing and trying / We’ll be together / Cause I will be here”
Why Play: A song sharing how your mom will be there to support you as her son.

If you would like to have a special dance with your mother-in-law, see our list of in-law songs for a mother-in-law and groom dance.

Country

What country song is about a mother and son?

Country music is known for telling great stories. Many county songs describe a mother and son relationship including “Mama’s Boy” by Ryan Griffin, “I Called Mama” by Tim McGraw, “Boy” by Lee Brice, and “That’s What Mamas Are For” by Chris Lane.

He’s Her Life – Waylon Nihipali

Released in 2022 on the album He’s Her Life, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “He’s the sunshine in her life / He’s the moonshine at night / He’s her life”
Why Play: A song about a mom and how her song is her everything.

I Love You Mom – Jackson Nance

Released in 2022 on the album I Love You Mom, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Don’t think for a single second I forgot / That you’re the best gift that I’ve ever got from god / I love you mom”
Why Play: A song about a song and how lucky he feels to have the mom he has.

She’s Magic – Mike Parker

Released in 2022 on the album She’s Magic, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “She’s one of a kind / She’s magic”
Why Play: A song from a song about being happy for the mother he has and what she means to him.

Tell Me Twice – Chayce Beckham

Released in 2022 on the album Doin’ It Right, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Say you know how it goes / After every low comes a high that’s life / You better hold on and hold on tight / But you don’t have to tell me twice”
Why Play: A song that Beckham wrote as a dedication to his mom and learning from her.

Son Of A – Dillon Carmichael

Released in 2021 on the album Son Of A, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “I’m a son of a momma / A son of a dad / Who will never stop loving me and being there”
Why Play: A song talking about what it’s like being a son with parents who cares about you.

Mama Ain’t Jesus – Jordan Rowe, Lainey Wilson

Released in 2021 on the album Bad Case Of Good Ole Boy, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “And while the good Lord comes back down to get us, she’ll fill in / I ain’t been yet, but I’ve got a glimpse of Heaven / ‘Cause Mama ain’t Jesus, but she’s a close second”
Why Play: A song about how special your mama is.

Mama’s Boy – Ryan Griffin

Released in 2021 on the album Mama’s Boy, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “I know you wanna be just like me / But thank God your heart’s like your mama’s, boy / Oh, like your mama’s, boy”
Why Play: A song interestingly from the perspective of your dad thankful you do not take on your father’s traits but rather your mom’s.

That’s What Mamas Are For – Chris Lane

Released in 2021 on the album That’s What Mamas Are For, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “And she put her blood, sweat, and tears into raisin’ me / And maybe a little more / Thank the Lord, that’s what mamas are for”
Why Play: A song about a mom that will do anything for her son.

Mama Was Daddy Too – Tainted Lyric

Released in 2021 on the album Mama Was Daddy Too, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “There was never no doubt / That she loved me through and through / Mama was daddy too”
Why Play: A song about a single mom who did it all and everything for her kids.

Mommas – Swon Brothers

Released in 2020 on the album Nashlahoma, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “They’ll pick you up and dust you off / And catch the tears if they start falling / You better love ’em while you got ’em / Thank God for mommas”
Why Play: A song about how grateful we should be for our mamas, particularly when we got them.

I Called Mama – Tim McGraw

Released in 2020 on the album Here On Earth, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Wrote a song just for me / And I sung it for the blue sky / And a couple live oak trees / I thought of home, grabbed my phone from my pocket / And I called mama”
Why Play: A song about things happening in your life and thinking of home and how you must call your mama.

Mothers & Sons – Paul Bogart

Released in 2019 on the album Won’t Have Far To Go, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “And that he can always find his way home / She’ll worry like she does cause there’s no kind of love / Like the one between mothers and sons”
Why Play: A song about a mother doing everything for her son and about a mom loving her son.

Mothers – Thomas Finchum

Released in 2019 on the album Thomas Finchum, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Mothers Let ’em go / You can let ’em fall / And if they hit the ground / They’ll figure it out”
Why Play: A song about mothers raising their sons and doing their best.

Her Little Man – Jami Grooms

Released in 2018 on the album Just a Drunken Vessel, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Those first steps together they filled up her heart / As he heads off to his senior prom / She says, how about a dance with mom?”
Why Play: A song about a mom and her son growing up and the special moments a mom experiences.

Mama’s Boy – Heidi Raye

Released in 2018 on the album Blame It on the Radio, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Little things let me know he loves me, prays I don’t ever let him go / He’s been waiting on a girl like me he can take back home”
Why Play: A song about a boy who’s considered a mama’s boy who’s a good man and meeting a girl to meet his mama.

Mother – Sugarland

Released in 2018 on the album Bigger, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “As long as she’s alive / you’re not alone / you’ve got each other / That’s your mother”
Why Play: A song about a mom who will always be there for you.

Boy – Lee Brice

Released in 2017 on the album Lee Brice, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re gonna drop the ball / Hit the wall / And break some hearts like glass / I know you will, ’cause you’re a part of me / And a part of you will always be my boy”
Why Play: A song about how the song will always be mama’s little boy no matter how old they get.

The Best Part Of Me – Lee Brice

Released in 2017 on the album Lee Brice, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Though my head’s been known to give me hell / This heart of mine is just something else, yeah / But the best part of me, part of me is you”
Why Play: A song about how a son takes after his parents and does what they do.

Humble And Kind – Tim Mcgraw

Released in 2015 on the album Damn Country Music, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “When the work you put in is realized / Let yourself feel the pride but / Always stay humble and kind”
Why Play: A song wishing the best for your children as a parent and being good people.

Mom – Garth Brooks

Released in 2014 on the album Man Against Machine, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Cause there’s someone down there waiting whose only goal in life / Is making sure you’re always gonna be alright / A loving angel tender, tough and strong / It’s almost time to go and meet your mom”
Why Play: A song about a baby boy about to be born and will be loved.

That’s What Mamas Do – Jason Matthews

Released in 2008 on the album Hicotine, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “They raise you / Ground you build their whole world around you / With no care for the hell, they’ll go through / That’s what mamas do”
Why Play: A song about everything a mom goes through raising their children.

Don’t Blink – Kenny Chesney

Released in 2007 on the album Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Don’t blink, just like that you’re six years old / And you take a nap / And you wake up and you’re twenty-five / And your high school sweetheart becomes your wife”
Why Play: A song from the parents’ viewpoint about how fast their kids grow up.

My Wish – Rascal Flatts

Released in 2006 on the album Me and My Gang, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “And while you’re out there getting where you’re getting to / I hope you know somebody loves you and wants the same things too / Yeah, this, is my wish”
wife”
Why Play: A song about wishing someone well and getting everything they dreamed of.

You’re Gonna Be (Always Loved by Me) – Reba Mcentire

Released in 2005 on the album Reba 1’s, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “We just have to believe things work out like they should / Life has no guarantees, but always loved by me / You’re gonna be”
Why Play: A song about a mom loving her child no matter what you go through.

He Gets That From Me – Reba McEntire

Released in 2003 on the album Room To Breathe, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “The way the sun brings those freckles out / Talkin’ talk never miss a beat / Yeah he gets that from me”
Why Play: A song about how a son takes on the traits of his mother.

Then They Do – Trace Adkins

Released in 2003 on the album Greatest Hits Collection, Vol. 1, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “I see them as babies / I guess that’ll never change / You pray all their lives / That someday they will find happiness / Then they do”
Why Play: A song about kids growing up and enjoying the moment as they will not be little for long.

Godspeed (Sweet Dreams) – The Chicks

Released in 2002 on the album Home, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Sweet dreams, little man / Oh, my love will fly to you each night on angels wings / Godspeed”
Why Play: A song about a mother putting her baby boy to sleep and hoping for the best for him.

There You’ll Be – Faith Hill

Released in 2001 on the album Pearl Harbor Soundtrack, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “I’ll keep a part of you with me / And everywhere I am there you’ll be”
Why Play: A song reminding each other that you will always be there for them.

I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack

Released in 2000 on the album I Hope You Dance, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance / And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance / I hope you dance
Why Play: A song about a parent hoping that their child lived out their dreams and reaches their goals.

The Dance – Garth Brooks

Released in 1990 on the album Garth Brooks, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “Our lives are better left to chance / I could have missed the pain / But I’d have had to miss the dance”
Why Play: The song can be interpreted to be about life or about the sacrifices your mother has made for you.

Mama – B. J. Thomas

Released in 1966 on the album I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry, Genre: Country
Lovable Lyrics: “And who’s the one who didn’t mean to cry / As you walked down the aisle, the tears you saw her smile / Mama”
Why Play: A song about your mama raising you and being there for you.

Other Top Country Mother-Son Dance Songs

• You Are My Sunshine by Morgane Stapleton with Chris Stapleton, 2016
• What I Never Knew I Always Wanted by Carrie Underwood, 2015
• If I Didn’t Have You by Thompson Square, 2013
• Mother Like Mine by The Band Perry, 2013
• The Best Day by Taylor Swift, 2008
• God’s Been Good to Me by Keith Urban, 2004
• Angels by Randy Travis, 2004
• The Baby by Blake Shelton, 2003
• In My Life by Johnny Cash, 2002
• Just to See You Smile by Tim McGraw, 1997

If you would like to have your sister step in for your mother, see our list of brother and sister songs for a special dance.

Rock

Story Of Love – Bon Jovi

Released in 2020 on the album 2020, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Fathers love daughters like mothers love sons / They’ve been writing our story before there was one”
Why Play: A song from the perspective of your mother being proud of her son.

Days Like This – Dermot Kennedy

Released in 2020 on the album Without Fear, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “When you don’t get betrayed by that old Judas kiss / Oh my mama told me, there’ll be days like this”
Why Play: A song about how every day will not be perfect but to focus on the good days. It was first released by Van Morrison.

93 Million Miles – Jason Mraz

Released in 2012 on the album Love Is a Four Letter Word, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “A beautiful light / Over the horizon into your eyes / Oh, my, my / How beautiful / Oh my beautiful mother / She told me”
Why Play: A song that tells you that home is where you are – Earth is 93 million miles from the sun and you can always come back home.

Simple Man – Shinedown

Released in 2003 on the album Leave A Whisper, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Oh, take your time, don’t live too fast / Troubles will come and they will pass / You’ll find a woman and you’ll find love / And don’t forget son, there is someone up above”
Why Play: A cover of the Lynyrd Skynrd song. A song about taking life as it comes and be who you are – a message from a mom to her son.

Sweet Child o’ Mine – Sheryl Crow

Released in 1998 on the Big Daddy Soundtrack, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “He’s got a smile / And it seems to me / Reminds me of childhood memories / Where everything was as fresh as a bright blue sky”
Why Play: A slower cover of the song made famous by Guns ‘N’ Roses.

Days Like This – Van Morrison

Released in 1995 on the album Days Like This, Genre: Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “When people understand what I mean there’ll be days like this / When you ring out the changes of how everything is / Well my mama told me there’ll be days like this”
Why Play: A song about how every day will not be perfect but to focus on the good days.

Mother – Pink Floyd

Released in 1979 on the album The Wall, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Mama’s gonna check out all your girlfriends for you / Mama won’t let anyone dirty get through / Mama’s gonna wait up until you get in / Mama will always find out
where you’ve been”
Why Play: The song is about an overprotective single mother and the song has a hard time fitting in.

Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton

Released in 1977 on the album Slowhand, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Because I see the love light in your eyes / And the wonder of it all / Is that you just don’t realize how much I love you”
Why Play: Typically a love song between a couple. However, this song could be interpreted as a special dedication to your mom and how beautiful she is.

You’re My Best Friend – Queen

Released in 1976 on the album A Night at the Opera, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re my sunshine and I want you to know / That my feelings are true / I really love you / Oh, you’re my best friend”
Why Play: A special song between a mom and her son that have a special love and friendship.

Landslide – Fleetwood Mac

Released in 1975 on the album Fleetwood Mac, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Cause I’ve built my life around you / But time makes you bolder / Even children get older / And I’m getting older too”
Why Play: Even though the song was written about Stevie Nick’s relationship with her father, it could also be your relationship with your mother.

Simple Man – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Released in 1973 from the album (Pronounced ‘L?h-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd), Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Mama told me when I was young / Come sit beside me my only son / And listen closely to what I say / And if you do this it’ll help you / Some sunny day”
Why Play: A song about taking life as it comes and being who you are – a message from a mom to her son.

Loves Me Like A Rock – Paul Simon

Released in 1973 on the album There Goes Rhymin’ Simon, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “My mama loves me, she loves me / She gets down on her knees and hugs me / Like she loves me like a rock / She rock me like the rock of ages and loves me”
Why Play: A fun mid-tempo song about a mother’s love and loving her son.

Your Mama Don’t Dance – Loggins & Messina

Released in 1972 on the album Loggins and Messina, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Your mama don’t dance / And your daddy don’t rock and roll / When evening rolls around / And it’s time to go to town / Where do you go / To rock and roll”
Why Play: A fun song to dance with your mom talking about how you were a rebellious child and your parents are a bit more conservative.

Teach Your Children – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

Released in 1970 on the album Déjà Vu, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “So just look at them and sigh / And know they love you”
Why Play: The song describes being happy and loving letting both parent and child be who they are without trying to fix what is not broken.

In My Life – Beatles

Released in 1965 on the album Rubber Soul, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “For people and things that went before / I know I’ll often stop and think about them / In my life, I love you more”
Why Play: A song about family and friends that were in your life and helped mold you.

I’m Happy Just To Dance With You – Beatles

Released in 1974 on the album A Hard Day’s Night, Genre: Classic Rock
Lovable Lyrics: “Just to dance with you / Is everything I need”
Why Play: If you are looking for a mid-tempo non-lovey song to dance to with your mother, then this fits.

Other Top Rock Mother-Son Dance Songs

• Letter To My Mother by Edwin McCain, 2001
• Thank You, Mom by Good Charlotte, 2000
• Thank You for Loving Me by Bon Jovi, 2000
• With Arms Wide Open by Creed, 1999
• When You Need Me by Bruce Springsteen, 1998
• Forever Young by The Pretenders, 1994
• I’ll Stand By You by The Pretenders, 1994
• Mama, I’m Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne, 1991
• Nothing Else Matters by Metallica, 1991
• Your Mama Don’t Dance by Poison, 1988
• Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses, 1987
• Dog and Butterfly by Heart, 1978
• Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles, 1969
• Sweet Thing by Van Morrison, 1968
• Your Mother Should Know by The Beatles, 1967
• With A Girl Like You by The Troggs, 1966

You are already thinking about the parent dances for your wedding. Have you picked a song for your first dance as a married couple yet?

R&B

My Little Boy – Chris Jasper feat. Margie Jasper

Released in 2019 on the album My Little Boy, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “You know we love you, so proud of you / Can’t you see, you will always be / My little boy”
Why Play: A song about parents being proud of their son and the man that he has become.

Mama’s Hand – Queen Naija

Released in 2018 on the album Queen Naija, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “I want for you to shine so bright / Know you can do anything through Christ / I see that there is a star inside you / I’m so glad you’re in my life”
Why Play: A special song about a mother and son bond.

Mother’s Love – KEM

Released in 2010 on the album Intimacy: Album III, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “In a mother’s love, you can feel / When something hurts you can heel / Yes, a mother’s love is real, you grow / Because she knows to let you go”
Why Play: A song about the love a mother experiences and to love without judgment.

A Song For Mama – Boyz II Men

Released in 1997 on the album Evolution, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “Mama, Mama you know I love you / Mama, Mama you’re the queen of my heart”
Why Play: A special dedication from a son to his mother and how special she is to him.

Hero – Mariah Carey

Released in 1993 on the album Music Box, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “So when you feel like hope is gone / Look inside you and be strong / And you’ll finally see the truth / That a hero lies in you”
Why Play: The song puts someone on a pedestal and shows how dear they are to you – so much so they are your hero.

Greatest Love Of All – Whitney Houston

Released in 1985 on the album Whitney Houston, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “I believe the children are our future / Teach them well and let them lead the way / Show them all the beauty they possess inside”
Why Play: A song dedicated to children and that they should learn to believe in themselves and love themselves no matter what.

Three Times A Lady – Commodores

Released in 1978 on the album Natural High, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re once, twice, three times a lady / And I love you”
Why Play: A song Richie dedicated to his wife and mother because they do so many things without being thanked.

I’ll Always Love My Mama – Intruders

Released in 1973 on the album Save the Children, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “You’ve got your yours, and I’ve got mine / Talking ’bout mama / Oh, hey mama, hey mama, my heart belongs to you”
Why Play: A fun mid-tempo song celebrating a mama’s love for her child.

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life – Stevie Wonder

Released in 1972 on the album Talking Book, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “You are the sunshine of my life / That’s why I’ll always be around / You are the apple of my eye / Forever you’ll stay in my heart”
Why Play: A song that lets the world know that he loves you and will always be there for you.

I’ll Be There – Jackson 5

Released in 1970 on the album Third Album, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “I’ll reach out my hand to you / I’ll have faith in all you do / Just call my name and I’ll be there”
Why Play: A song about being there for you no matter the circumstances.

Stand By Me – Ben E. King

Released in 1961 on the album Don’t Play That Song!, Genre: R&B
Lovable Lyrics: “I won’t cry, I won’t cry / No, I won’t shed a tear / Just as long as you stand, stand by me”
Why Play: A song about supporting someone and letting them know that everything will be OK as long as they are there.

Other parent dances to consider not at every wedding would be a father-son dedication song and also a mother and daughter dance song. Do what makes you happy!

Other

Momma’s Love – Morray

Released in 2022 on the album Momma’s Love, Genre: Hip Hop
Lovable Lyrics: “Hey Ma, it’s your baby / You prayed it, I made it”
Why Play: The song was released on Mother’s Day as a tribute to his momma.

MOM – Daniyel

Released in 2020 on the album MOM, Genre: Hip Hop
Lovable Lyrics: “You gave me wings / You know my pain / You my momma”
Why Play: Another tribute to your momma and everything you put her through and she still loves you.

You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban

Released in 2002 on the album Closer, Genre: Inspirational
Lovable Lyrics: “You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains / You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas / I am strong when I am on your shoulders / You raise me up to more than I can be”
Why Play: A song about a parent showing a child how to survive the world and be there.

My Son – Frank Patterson

Released in 1999 on the album God Bless America!, Genre: Irish
Lovable Lyrics: “You build up my life with your sweet music / It’s written in the song, this melody belongs / To you and me my son”
Why Play: A song dedicated to parents who have a son.

My Baby You – Marc Anthony

Released in 1999 on the album Marc Anthony, Genre: Latin
Lovable Lyrics: “My baby you / Are the reason I could fly / And ’cause of you / I don’t have to wonder why”
Why Play: A song that Anthony dedicated to his daughter.

Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Released in 1990 on the album Facing Future, Genre: World
Lovable Lyrics: “High above the chimney top that’s where you’ll find me / Oh, somewhere over the rainbow way up high / And the dream that you dare to”
Why Play: A song about hope and believing that all of your dreams will come true.

Sunrise, Sunset – Cast from Fiddler on the Roof

Released in 1964 on the album Fiddler on the Roof Soundtrack, Genre: Broadway
Lovable Lyrics: “Sunrise, sunset / Swiftly fly the years / One season following another”
Why Play: The song reminds parents how fast their children grow up and how they don’t feel old enough to have kids of marrying age.

Enjoy our podcast episode talking about Mother-Son Dance songs!

What is a good mother son dance song?

The best mother-son dance song is typically a song for a special dance during your wedding reception.

A good choice should represent the commonality and unique relationship between the groom and his mother.

The song can also be a slow song or an upbeat song too.

The mother-son songs can also be awesome to celebrate a special moment like a birth.

The songs can also be used as a dedication song from a son to his mother on Mother’s Day.

It would be impossible to name all the great mother-son wedding songs to make a perfect choice on your big day.

Just be sure your wedding band or DJ has your requested playlist beforehand of your song choice.

What is the mother son wedding dance?

Traditionally, the Mother-Son Dance is the dance between the mother of the groom and her son. It comes after the Father-Daughter Dance in the wedding reception timeline.

It is a heartfelt moment during the wedding reception. Most likely, it will be filmed and photographed, so be sure to choose a great song to celebrate your special relationship.

Some wedding couples combine the father-daughter dance with the mother-groom dance. Both couples dance to the same song.

If you decide to do this, talk to your wedding planner and DJ; they should be able to give great suggestions that will help you choose the song.

Are there mother son dances at weddings?

Traditionally at weddings, the groom will dance with his mother (or mother figure) during the wedding reception immediately following the father-daughter dance.

If his mother has passed, the groom can choose to dance with his mother-in-law or sister as a replacement. The mother-son dance signifies the love between a mother and her son.

What song can I dedicate to my son?

The song you choose to dedicate to your son as a mother can be many of the songs listed here.

First, select the music style and from there listen to each song on the list to determine if the song tells the same relationship you have with your son.

Who picks out the mother son song?

Typically the groom or the mother of the groom will select the song for the mother-son dance.

Does the groom dance with the bride’s mother (mother-in-law)?

At a typical wedding, there is no formal dance for the groom to dance with his new mother-in-law.

However, the groom can dance with her during the dancing part of the reception to signify their new family bond.

If the dance is important to the wedding couple, you could choose to have an in-law dance where the bride dances with her new father-in-law and the groom dances with his new mother-in-law.

See our list of in-law dance songs.

What if my family isn’t traditional?

Families have complex relationships these days. That’s okay. Same-sex couples can choose to dance with the family member of their choice: mother, or mentor.

A better way for stepmothers can have a second song. Estranged family members can have stand-ins. You can even dance with your in-laws if you wish for a sweet moment on your special day.

Grooms, if you have more than one mother in your life, there are options.

One can tap the other on the shoulder in the middle of the dance so you can dance with both of your moms. You may even want a sweet song for each.

Talk about it with your professional wedding planner or DJ.

What mother son song to play for a single Mom?

Just for single moms, I would recommend the song “He’s Her Life” by Waylon Nihipali.

What if the bride is the mother of the mother-son dance?

No matter if the mom is the mother to one of the wedding couples or if she is the bride, many songs describe the love and bond between a mother and her son.

Just be sure to listen to the lyrics when selecting a song that describes your life journey with your son.

Can I do the mother-son wedding dance without my mom?

If one of the wedding couple’s parents is no longer living, you can adapt or skip the Mother-Son Dance.

This is an emotional decision, for sure. If your new spouse will dance with her father, then you’ll certainly want to have your time to shine.

Perhaps your mom passed away or you are estranged. If your mother isn’t alive, a common substitute is a mother figure.

Many of us have those people in our lives. Your sister or aunt would make a very nice gesture See our list of sister-brother songs.

If this dance is too painful because of a recent loss or estrangement, you can skip the Mother-Son Dance.

It’s your celebration. Talk to your wedding planner; they are experienced with this delicate relationship.

About Matthew Campbell

Wedding Music Expert

Matthew (Matt) Campbell is the founder & editor of My Wedding Songs. He is a veteran wedding DJ and knows the latest music trends to help you pick your wedding songs quickly. His articles will help you find the bangers and romance for your wedding day – or simply earbud happiness. He is an active member in wedding planning and DJ Facebook groups. Matthew lives in Las Vegas, NV, and loves traveling with his wife in his spare time. Read Full Bio.

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