Matt talks about popular mother-son dance songs played during wedding receptions. Hear some song lyrics that go with the mother-son theme too!

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Podcast Transcript

Thank you for tuning into the 64th episode of the Wedding Songs Podcast. I am Matt Campbell and today I’m going to be giving you 90 songs that you could play for your mother-son dance. No, you don’t want to play them all at once, but these are great selections for the groom and his mother to dance to during the reception. If you prefer to read the list or listen to the songs, you can do so on our website, MyWeddingSongs.com. There’s a link to the page right from the homepage. And if you have any questions about any of the songs that I’m going to bring up today, you can ask away. So, let’s go ahead and get started. I’m going to be breaking these up by genre.

The first genre up is Indie songs that you could play for your mother-son dance. The first one, released in 2021, is “Sorry Mom” by The Band Camino with lyrics like…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. So that would be perfect for kids that may be a little bit disruptive during their younger years. Next up, released also in 2021, is Caleb Beachy with his song “I Love This Dance” with lyrics…you’re my biggest fan, that’s why I love this dance. 21 Pilots released “House Of Gold” in 2011, with a great message in there that goes…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. Released in 1975 is James Taylor’s “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)”. And also in 1971, his song “You’ve Got A Friend”. Now, these could be considered Folk songs, but I threw them in the Indie category.

So next up I have Pop mother-son dance songs, with the first one, released in 2021 by Westlife, called “My Hero”. With lyrics…And I want you to know that I feel like, you are my hero. And one of my favorite songs, also released in 2021, is by Lukas Graham and his song “Call My Name”. Don’t matter when or where, just know that I’ll be right there. Call my name. Another one of my favorite Pop current artists is Calum Scott with his song “No Matter What” released in 2018. She wrapped her arms around me. Said, don’t try to be what you’re not. ‘Cause I love you no matter what. And also released in 2018 is Matthew John’s song “Everything”. You taught me everything. How to tell what’s wrong from right. You gave me everything. Made me who I am inside.

If you have a mother that has passed, then Ed Sheeran’s song “Supermarket Flowers” released in 2017 is a great dedication. You were an angel in the shape of my mom. When I fell down, you’d be there holding me up. Spread your wings as you go. Another popular song, that could be also used as a mother-daughter song, is “Mom” by Megan Trainor released in 2016. Released in 2015 is Ciara’s song “I Got You”. Take the bullet, take the blows. I would take all the pain. Anything, anything that you gotta get through? Hey, Hey, I got you. Adele released a new album recently, and in 2015 she had her song “Sweetest Devotion” is one to check out. And if you’re looking for a little more upbeat, funny song that you could play then “Mama” by Lunchmoney Lewis, released in 2015. 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. That’s a pretty cool song. In 2014, Shakira released “The Only Thing” with…every time I see you smile. Every time I hear you laugh, baby, you bring new sunshine over my way. And Scott Keo released “All To You” in 2012. 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. Another personal favorite, released in 2009, is Beyonce’s “Halo”. But I never really had a doubt, standing in the light of your halo. I got my angel now. The song “The Man You’ve Become” by Molly released in 2008 was released on a wedding album. So it’s been a very popular mother-son dance.

Since its release in 2007, Jim Brickman, featuring Lady A, with” Never Alone”. And Taylor Hicks, if you remember this song from American Idol when he won, called Do I Make You Proud in 2006. This is what we dream about. But the only question with me now, is do I make you proud? And in 2000 Dido released “Thank You”. And I want to thank you for giving me the best day of my life. Another popular Boy Band song for a mother-son dance is Backstreet Boys’ song “Perfect Fan” released in 1999. You showed me just how to walk without your hands. Cuz mom, you always were the perfect fan. The next song was released in the Tarzan movie, but still a great song by Phil Collins, “You’ll Always Be In My Heart”. There’s actually a new cover of this song that you should check out, that was released this year by Brent Morgan. The always popular wedding artist, Celine Dion, released “Because You Loved Me” in 1996, and in 1995, Elton John’s song “Blessed” is a great mother-son dance song with…I need you before I’m too old to have to hold. To walk with you and watch you grow and know that you’re blessed.

Mikki Viereck released “A Song For My Son” in 1991. This was also released on a wedding album, so it became a popular wedding song. “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart, released in 1988. May your guiding light be strong, build a stairway to heaven, with a prince or a vagabond. If you’re a big Elvis fan, then he released “The Wonder Of You” in 1970. Also released in 1970 is Elton John’s song “Your Song” with…I know it’s not much, but it’s the best I can do. My gift is my song and this ones for you. Elvis also released “Memories” in 1968, and Louis Armstrong’s song “What A Wonderful World” in 1967. Very popular wedding song with…the bright blessed days, the dark sacred nights. And I think to myself, what a wonderful world. Released in 1966, the Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows” with…I may not always love you, but long as there are stars above you, you never need to doubt it. And finally, the last song, Frank, Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight”, released in 1964.

So next up is Christian mother-son dance songs. In 2019, Caleb and Kelsey released “Boy” with 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. Alan Jackson and his song “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” in 2006. And Mark Harris’ song “Find Your Wings” in 2005 with…I’m here for you, whatever this life brings. So let my love give you roots and help you find your wings. One of my favorites on the list is “I Will Be Here” by Steven Curtis Chapman, released in 2003 with 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.

Next up is Country mother-son dance songs. You know Country songs are really popular just because many of these songs tell a story. So the first one, released in 2021 is Dylan Carmichael’s song “Son Of A”. It’s not what you think with lyrics…I’m a son of a momma, a son of a dad, who will never stop loving me and being there. Released in 2021, Jordan Rowe and Lainey Wilson with their song “Mama Ain’t Jesus” with lyrics…And while the good Lord comes 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. Also, released in 2021 is “Mama’s Boy” by Ryan Griffin. Chris Lane’s song “That’s What Mamas Are For”. Lyrics…she put her blood, sweat, and tears into raising me and maybe a little more. Thank the Lord. That’s what mamas are for.

Check out the song “Mama Was Daddy Too” by Tainted Lyric in 2021. The Swon Brothers released “Mommas” in 2020, and “Man Made” by Granger Smit in 2020. The well-known Tim McGraw released “I Called Mama” in 2020 with…wrote a song just for me, and I sung it to the blue sky, and a couple live Oak trees, I thought of home, grabbed my phone in my pocket, and I called mama. “Mothers” by Thomas Finchum in 2019. Mothers let ’em go. You can let ’em fall, and if they will hit the ground. They’ll figure it out. Heidi Raye released “Mama’s Boy” in 2018, and Sugarland released “Mother” in 2018. As long as she’s alive, you’re not alone. You’ve got each other. That’s your mother. And the first song on the Country list was “Boy” by Caleb and Kelsey, and here’s the original, by Lee Bryce, released in 2017. He also released “The Best Part Of Me” in 2017. 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.

If you’re looking for a non-lovey-dovey song, then “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw in 2015. Garth Brooks released “Mom” in 2014, and Eric Church “Like Jesus Does” in 2013. I love these lyrics to this song…She forgives me when I can’t, and the devil man, no he don’t have a prayer, cuz she loves me like Jesus does. Lauren Alaina released “Like My Mother Does” in 2011, and “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood in 2010. One of my favorite older Country songs for mother-son dance is “That’s What Mamas Do” by Jason Matthews, in 2008. 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. “Don’t Blink” by Kenny Chesney in 2007, and the wildly popular “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts in 2006, which is still a huge mother-son dance song. Reba Mcentire with “You’re Gonna Be (Always Loved By Me)”, in 2005.

“The Baby” by Blake Shelton in 2003. “He Gets That From Me” by Reba again in 2003…the way the sun brings those freckles out, talkin’ talk never miss a beat. Yeah. He gets that from me. MotherLode Trio with “Farley’s Boy” in 2003, and “Then They Do” by Trace Akins in 2003. The Chicks with “Godspeed (Sweet Dreams)” in 2002, and the very popular “There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill in 2001…I’ll always keep a part of you with me, and everywhere I am there you’ll be. Another very popular song is “I Hope You Dance” by Lee AnnWomack in 2000, with…promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance. And when you get the choice to sit out or dance, I hope you dance. “The Dance” by Garth Brooks in 1990, and the final song B.J. Thomas’ “Mama” in 1966.

Now, not a part of the original 90, but some other great choices are “You Are My Sunshine” with Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton. “What I Never Knew I Always Wanted” by Carrie Underwood. “If I Didn’t Have You” by Thompson Square. “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry. “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift. “God’s Been Good To Me” by Keith Urban. “Angels” by Randy Travis. “In My Life” by Johnny Cash, and “Just To See You Smile” by Tim McGraw, are just a couple more country songs that you could play.

Now, let’s go ahead and go to Rock songs. The first one, released in 2020, is probably one of my favorites in the Rock genre. “Story Of Love” by Bon Jovi with lyrics…fathers love daughters like mothers love sons. They’ve been writing our story before there was one. “Days Like This” was first released by Van Morrison, but this is a cover by Dermot Kennedy, released in 1990. When you don’t get betrayed by the old Judas kiss. Oh, my mama told me, there’ll be days like this.

“93 Million Miles” by Jason Mraz was released in 2012…a beautiful light over the horizon into your eyes. Oh, my, my, how beautiful. Oh, my beautiful mother. She told me. “Simple Man” by Shinedown, released in 2003. Now, this was first released by Lynyrd Skynyrd, but it has great lyrics and I love this cover of it. 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. Sheryl Crow released a cover of Guns N’ Roses’ song, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” in 1998 if you’re looking for a slower version of that song. And “Days Like This” by Van Morrison, released in 1995. “Wildflowers” by Tom Petty in 1994. And “Mother” by Pink Floyd in 1979…mama’s gonna check out all your girlfriends for you. Mama won’t let anyone dirty get through. Mama’s gonna wait until you get in. Mama will always find out where you’ve been.

“Just The Way You Are” by Billy Joel, released in 1977, and “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton in 1977. I’d probably stay away from that one just because it’s a little bit more lovey-dovey between a couple and not a mother-son. “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen in 1976, and “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac in 1975. Another song that’s more lovey-dovey between a couple, but has been selected, is “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker in 1974. In 1973, like I said, “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. If you are Simon and Garfunkel fans, then you might like “Loves Me Like A Rock” by Paul Simon in 1973. My mama loves me, she loves me. She gets down on her knees and hug me like she loves me like a rock. She rocked me like the rock of ages and loves me.

If you’re looking for a more up-tempo song then “Your Mama Don’t Dance” by Loggins & Messina in 1972. ..your mama don’t dance and your daddy don’t rock and roll. I think that’s all I need to say and you’ll figure out what song that is. “Teach Your Children” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young in 1970. So just look at them and sigh, and know they love you. A great selection for Rock fans and acoustic Rock fans, “In My Life” by the Beatles in 1965, and “I’m Happy Just To Dance With You” by the Beatles in 1964.

Other Rock songs, that I kind of skipped over, are: “Letter To My Mother” by Edward McCain. “Thank You Mom” by Good Charlotte. “Thank You For Loving Me” by Bon Jovi. “With Arms Wide Open” by Creed. “When You Need Me” by Bruce Springsteen. “Forever Young” by the Pretenders. “I’ll Stand By You” by the Pretenders. “Mama I’m Coming Home” by Ozzy Osborne. “Nothing Else” by Metallica. “Your Mama Don’t Dance”, but this one is by Poison. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses. “Dog and Butterfly” by Heart. “Here Comes The Sun” by the Beatles. “Sweet Thing” by Van Morrison. “Your Mother Should Know” by the Beatles, and “With A Girl Like You” by the Troggs.

Next up are R & B mother-son dance songs. The first song on the R & B mother-son dance songs is “My Little Boy” by Chris Jasper featuring Margie Jasper in 2019. You may remember Chris as a member of the Eisley Brothers. In 2018 “Mama’s Hand” by Queen Naija, with lyrics…I want for you to shine so bright. Know you can do anything through Christ. I see there is a star inside you. I’m so glad you’re in my life.

“Mother’s Love” by KEM, released in 2010…in a mother’s love you can feel, when something hurts, you can heal. Yes. A mother’s love is real. You grow because she knows to let you go. “A Song For Mama”, probably my favorite R & B song, by Boyz II Men, released in 1997…Mama mama, you know I love you. Mama, mama you’re the queen of my heart. Another choice is “Hero” by Mariah Carey in 1993, and “Greatest Love Of All” by Whitney Houston in 1985. With…I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. “Three Times A Lady” by the Commodores in 1978, and “I’ll Always Love My Momma” by the Intruders in 1973. Stevie Wonder released “You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” in 1972, and “I’ll Be There” by the Jackson 5 in 1970…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.

Marvin Gay and Tammy Terrell released “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in 1967 as a mid-tempo dance song. A very popular wedding song “Stand By Me” by Ben E King in 1961. I won’t cry. I won’t cry. No, I won’t shed a tear, just as long as you stand, stand by me.

All right, the last song’s on our list are just a collection of different genres. Starting off with “Mom” by Daniyel, released in 2020…You gave me wings. You know my pain. You my mama. “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban in 2002. And, “My Son” by Frank Patterson in 1999, which is an Irish song. “My Baby You” by Mac Anthony in 1999, and a very popular wedding song “Over The Rainbow” by IS in 1990. And, just for the older generation, “Sunrise Sunset” from Fiddler on the Roof, sung by the cast, in 1964.

There you have it my favorite mother-son dance songs, or you could say groom-mother dance songs, for your wedding reception. If you want to listen to the list or read the list you can do so on our website, MyWeddingSongs.com. The link is right there on the homepage. If you wanna discuss any songs on the list please send me a message. Next up, in two Saturdays, I’m going to be talking about the popular First Dance songs for your wedding. This is the first dance as a married couple. Thanks for listening and have a great day.

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