Choosing the Perfect Mom Son Wedding Dance Songs: A Heartfelt Guide

The mother-son dance at a wedding is a deeply touching tradition. It’s a moment where the groom can publicly honor his mother or a significant mother figure in his life. This dance, often filled with emotion, creates a lasting memory not just for the mother and son, but for everyone present at the wedding reception. While not mandatory, including a mother-son dance is a beautiful way for the groom to show appreciation to his mom on his special day, especially considering how much she has likely anticipated this moment. Selecting the right song is crucial as it sets the tone and sentiment for this meaningful dance.

Finding the perfect mother-son dance song can feel like a daunting task. The ideal song should resonate with both the groom and his mother, reflecting their unique bond. Think about shared musical tastes, favorite artists, or genres that hold significance for both of you. Perhaps she introduced him to classic rock, or maybe country music is a genre they both enjoy. Shared experiences can also inspire song choices. Did she take him to his first concert? Or are there lullabies she used to sing that could be reimagined for this special occasion? These personal touches can make the song selection even more meaningful and unique.

Traditionally, the mother-son dance takes place after the first dance of the married couple and the father-daughter dance. This sequence of dances usually serves as a transition into the wedding reception festivities, often following the cocktail hour and leading into dinner or the opening of the dance floor. However, wedding timelines are flexible, and the timing of the mother-son dance can be adjusted to fit the flow of the celebration. Some couples use these family dances to smoothly transition between different segments of the wedding day.

While slow, sentimental songs are commonly chosen for the mother-son dance, upbeat tunes are also fantastic options. An energetic, fun song can be a delightful surprise and get the party started, showcasing a different facet of the mother-son relationship. Ultimately, the choice of tempo and style should reflect the personalities of the groom and his mother and the overall mood they wish to create.

To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled a list of mother-son dance songs, encompassing various genres and eras. These songs are categorized to help you find the perfect fit, whether you are looking for a classic, country, or contemporary piece.

Classic Mother-Son Dance Songs

These timeless classics evoke warmth, love, and enduring bonds, making them perfect for a traditional and heartfelt mother-son dance.

• “O-o-h Child,” by Five Stairsteps: An optimistic and comforting song about hope and brighter days ahead, reflecting a mother’s unwavering support. Lyrics of Love: “Ooh child/Things are gonna get easier/Ooh child/Things’ll get brighter”

• “Through the Years,” by Kenny Rogers: A song celebrating enduring love and shared experiences over time, perfect for a mother who has been a constant presence. Lyrics of Love: “I can’t remember when you weren’t there/When I didn’t care for anyone but you/I swear, we’ve been through everything there is/Can’t imagine anything we’ve missed/Can’t imagine anything the two of us can’t do”

• “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” by James Taylor: A joyful and appreciative song expressing gratitude for love and support, ideal for conveying a son’s appreciation for his mother’s love. Lyrics of Love: “I needed the shelter of someone’s arms/And there you were/I needed someone to understand my ups and downs/And there you were”

• “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” by Simon & Garfunkel: A song about being a source of comfort and support during difficult times, reflecting the unwavering support a mother provides. Lyrics of Love: “When you’re weary, feeling small/When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all, all/I’m on your side, oh, when times get rough”

• “God Only Knows,” by The Beach Boys: A declaration of enduring love and devotion, expressing a deep and unconditional bond. Lyrics of Love: “I may not always love you/But long as there are stars above you/You never need to doubt it/I’ll make you so sure about it”

• “I Say A Little Prayer,” by Aretha Franklin: A song about constant thoughts and prayers for a loved one, highlighting a mother’s ever-present care and concern. Lyrics of Love: “I run for the bus, dear/While riding I think of us, dear/I say a little prayer for you”

• “Because You Loved Me,” by Celine Dion: A powerful ballad expressing gratitude for strength and support received from a loved one, perfectly capturing a son’s appreciation for his mother’s unwavering belief in him. Lyrics of Love: “You were my strength when I was weak/You were my voice when I couldn’t speak/You were my eyes when I couldn’t see”

• “Lean On Me,” by Bill Withers: A classic anthem about friendship and support, symbolizing the dependable nature of a mother’s love. Lyrics of Love: “Lean on me/When you’re not strong/And I’ll be your friend/I’ll help you carry on”

• “Days Like This,” by Van Morrison: A feel-good song about appreciating the good times in life, and acknowledging the wisdom passed down from a mother. *Lyrics of Love*: “When everything falls into place like the flick of a switch/Well my mama told me there’ll be days like this”

• “You’ll Be In My Heart,” by Phil Collins: From Disney’s Tarzan, this song speaks to an unbreakable bond and unconditional love, resonating with the lifelong connection between a mother and son. Lyrics of Love: “For one so small/You seem so strong/My arms will hold you/Keep you safe and warm/This bond between us/Can’t be broken/I will be here/Don’t you cry”

• “Beautiful Boy,” by John Lennon: A tender song about watching a son grow and cherishing the journey of parenthood, reflecting on the preciousness of the mother-son relationship. Lyrics of Love: “Out on the ocean sailing away/I can hardly wait/To see you to come of age/But I guess we’ll both/Just have to be patient/‘Cause it’s a long way to go”

• “I’ll Stand By You,” by The Pretenders: A promise of unwavering support and loyalty, mirroring a mother’s steadfast presence in her son’s life. Lyrics of Love: “I’ll stand by you/I’ll stand by you, won’t let nobody hurt you/I’ll stand by you/Baby, even to your darkest hour, and I’ll never desert you”

• “(They Long To Be) Close To You,” by The Carpenters: A sweet and gentle song expressing admiration and affection, ideal for conveying a son’s deep love and admiration for his mother. Lyrics of Love: “On the day that you were born the angels got together/And decided to create a dream come true/So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold and starlight in your eyes of blue”

• “Unforgettable,” by Nat King Cole: A song declaring someone as unforgettable, perfectly encapsulating the irreplaceable role of a mother. Lyrics of Love: “Unforgettable/That’s what you are/Unforgettable/Tho’ near or far”

• “Wind Beneath My Wings,” by Bette Midler: An ode to someone who has been a constant source of support and inspiration, celebrating a mother’s role in her son’s achievements. Lyrics of Love: “Did you ever know that you’re my hero/And everything I would like to be/I can fly higher than an eagle/For you are the wind beneath my wings”

• “My Love, My Life,” by ABBA: A declaration of enduring love that remains constant through life’s changes, reflecting the everlasting bond between mother and son. Lyrics of Love: “You are still my love and my life/Still my one and only”

• “Mama Said,” by The Shirelles: A comforting song acknowledging life’s challenges while recalling a mother’s words of wisdom and reassurance. Lyrics of Love: “Mama said there’ll be days like this/There’ll be days like this, my mama said”

• “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” by The Intruders: A straightforward and heartfelt declaration of love and appreciation for one’s mother. Lyrics of Love: “I’ll always love my mama/She’s my favorite girl/I’ll always love my mama/She brought me in this world”

• “Stand By Me,” by Ben E. King: A timeless song about unwavering support and companionship, mirroring the steadfast nature of a mother’s love. Lyrics of Love: “When the night has come/And the land is dark/And the moon is the only light we’ll see/No I won’t be afraid/Oh, I won’t be afraid/Just as long as you stand, stand by me”

• “What a Wonderful World,” by Louis Armstrong: A hopeful and optimistic song about appreciating the beauty of life and the world, reflecting the positive outlook a mother often instills. Lyrics of Love: “I hear babies cry/I watch them grow/They’ll learn much more/Than I’ll never know/And I think to myself/What a wonderful world”

Country Mother-Son Dance Songs

For those with a shared love for country music, these songs blend heartfelt lyrics with country melodies, perfect for a sentimental yet grounded mother-son dance.

• “The House That Built Me,” by Miranda Lambert: A nostalgic song about returning to childhood homes and memories, reflecting on the foundational role a mother plays in shaping her son. Lyrics of Love: “From sleepless nights and rocking chairs/Your smiling face was always there/From little trucks and building blocks/You held my hand while I learned to walk/You were my best friend, my inspiration/The one I looked up to/Hey Mom…the first lady in my life was you”

• “Thought You Should Know,” by Morgan Wallen: A son’s update to his mother about his life and growth, acknowledging her prayers and support. Lyrics of Love: “I thought you should know/That all those prayers you thought you wasted on me/Must’ve finally made their way on through/I thought you should know/I got me a new girl down in Jefferson City, and/She lets me fish whenever I want to”

• “Mother Like Mine,” by The Band Perry: A song celebrating the unique and cherished role of a mother in a family. Lyrics of Love: “She’s our father’s one great love/She’s the one he wanted most/She’s the light in the window of the house I grew up in”

• “Letter to My Mother,” by Edwin McCain: A heartfelt letter in song form, expressing deep love and gratitude to a mother for her unwavering support. Lyrics of Love: “Mama, how do I write the words to you/You were the only one who loved me true”

• “The Wish,” by Bruce Springsteen: A tender song reflecting on childhood memories and a son’s wish for his mother’s happiness. Lyrics of Love: “And if it’s a funny old world, mama, where a little boy’s wishes come true/Well I got a few in my pocket and a special one just for you”

• “93 Million Miles,” by Jason Mraz: While genre-bending, this song’s folksy, acoustic style resonates with country themes of home and guidance, offering a mother’s reassuring message to her son as he navigates life. Lyrics of Love: “Son in life you’re gonna go far/If you do it right/You’ll love where you are/Just know that wherever you go/You can always come home”

• “Thank You Mom,” by Good Charlotte: Although pop-punk, this song’s acoustic rendition carries a country-like sincerity, expressing heartfelt thanks to a mother for her unwavering support during tough times. Lyrics of Love: “I’m sitting here, I’m thinking back/To a time when I was young, my memory is clear as day/I’m listening to the dishes clink/You were downstairs, you would sing songs of praise”

• “Mother,” by Sugarland: A straightforward and emotional song simply titled “Mother,” emphasizing the irreplaceable bond and love. Lyrics of Love: “She’s your mother, you love her/There won’t be another/Place like her again that you call home/She stands here to help you/there’s nothing she won’t do”

• “The Best Day,” by Taylor Swift: A nostalgic and heartwarming song recounting cherished childhood memories with a mother, perfect for highlighting special moments shared. Lyrics of Love: “I’m five years old/It’s getting cold/I’ve got my big coat on/I hear your laugh/And look up smiling at you/I run and run”

• “My Mother’s Eyes,” by Frankie Valli: While originally pop, many country artists have covered this song, which beautifully describes the guiding and loving presence of a mother. Lyrics of Love: “I’ll walk the straight and narrow/To reach my goal/God’s gift sent from above/A real unselfish love/I found in my mother’s eyes”

• “The Baby,” by Blake Shelton: A song from the son’s perspective about being cherished and loved by his mother, always remaining her “baby.” Lyrics of Love: “I guess she was tired by the time I came along/She’d laugh until she cried, I could do no wrong/She would always save me because I was her baby”

• “The Man I Want to Be,” by Chris Young: A song about striving to be a better person, inspired by a mother’s values and upbringing, showing how a mother’s influence shapes a son’s character. Lyrics of Love: “I wanna be a good man/A ‘do like I should’ man/I wanna be the kind of man the mirror likes to see/I wanna be a strong man”

• “My Wish,” by Rascal Flatts: A song filled with heartfelt wishes for happiness and a good life, reflecting a mother’s hopes and dreams for her son. Lyrics of Love: “My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to/Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small/You never need to carry more than you can hold”

• “Humble and Kind,” by Tim McGraw: A song imparting valuable life lessons and virtues, embodying the wisdom a mother instills in her son. Lyrics of Love: “Go to church ’cause your mamma says to/Visit grandpa every chance that you can/It won’t be wasted time/Always stay humble and kind”

• “Do I Make You Proud,” by Taylor Hicks: A song asking for validation and expressing gratitude for guidance and support, reflecting a son’s desire to make his mother proud. Lyrics of Love: “My heart is full/Of endless gratitude/You were the one/The one to guide me through”

• “Handprints On The Wall,” by Kenny Rogers: A poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of time and the stages of a child’s growth, from a parent’s perspective, cherishing each moment. Lyrics of Love: “Days go by so quickly/Summer turns to fall/Seems like only yesterday/That you began to crawl/So don’t be afraid to take that step/I’ll catch you when you fall”

• “That’s What Mamas Do,” by Jason Matthews: A song celebrating the everyday acts of love and care that mothers provide, highlighting their constant nurturing presence. Lyrics of Love: “And when she bows her head to pray/You can bet she’s saying one for you/That’s what mamas do/They raise you/Ground you build their whole world around you”

• “He Gets That From Me,” by Reba McEntire: A sweet song from a mother’s perspective, noticing her son’s traits that remind her of herself, celebrating the unique connection. Lyrics of Love: “His curly hair and his knobby knees/The way the sun brings those freckles out/Talkin’ talk never miss a beat/Yeah he gets that from me/He gets that from me”

• “There You’ll Be,” by Faith Hill: A ballad about carrying a loved one in your heart always, perfect for expressing a son’s enduring love for his mother as he starts a new chapter. Lyrics of Love: “In my dreams, I’ll always see you soar above the sky/In my heart, there will always be a place for you, for all my life/I’ll keep a part of you with me”

• “Then They Do,” by Trace Adkins: A touching song about the bittersweet experience of watching children grow up and start their own lives, reflecting a mother’s perspective on this milestone. Lyrics of Love: “I look over at their pictures/Sittin’ in their frames/I see them as babies/I guess that’ll never change/You pray all their lives/That someday they will find happiness”

Modern & Unique Mother-Son Dance Songs

For a contemporary feel or a less traditional approach, these modern songs offer diverse styles and heartfelt messages, perfect for couples looking for something a bit different.

• “No Matter What,” by Callum Scott: A powerful ballad about unconditional love and acceptance, ideal for expressing a mother’s unwavering love and support for her son, regardless of life’s paths. Lyrics of Love: “She said, ‘I love you no matter what/I just want you to be happy and always be who you are’/She wrapped her arms around me/Said, ‘Don’t try to be what you’re not/’Cause I love you no matter what'”

• “I Hope You Dance,” by Lee Ann Womack: An inspirational song about embracing life and taking chances, reflecting a mother’s wishes for her son’s future happiness and fulfillment. Lyrics of Love: “I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean/Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens/Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance/And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance/Dance… I hope you dance”

• “You Are the Best Thing,” by Ray LaMontagne: A soulful and heartfelt declaration of love and appreciation, simply stating that someone is the “best thing,” perfect for expressing deep affection. *Lyrics of Love:* Oh, because/You are the best thing/(You’re the best thing)/You are the best thing/(You’re the best thing, baby)/You are the best thing/(You’re the best thing, ooh)/Ever happened to me”

• “Home” by Phillip Phillips: A song about finding home and belonging in a person, symbolizing the comforting and grounding presence of a mother. Lyrics of Love: “Hold on to me as we go/As we roll down this unfamiliar road/And although this wave (wave) is stringing us along/Just know you’re not alone/’Cause I’m gonna make this place your home”

• “Mama Hold My Hand,” by Aloe Blacc: A soulful and poignant song about seeking guidance and support, evoking the comforting image of a mother’s hand-holding reassurance throughout life. Lyrics of Love: “Momma, hold my hand/I don’t think I can cross this road by myself”

• “Home,” by Jack Johnson: A mellow and heartfelt song about the concept of home being wherever loved ones are, reflecting the emotional home a mother provides. Lyrics of Love: “So I, try, to understand, what I can’t hold in my hand, and where ever we are/Home is there too”

• “Forever Young,” by Rod Stewart: A classic with a modern resurgence, this song expresses the timeless wish for someone to stay young at heart and blessed with good fortune, a beautiful sentiment from a son to his mother. Lyrics of Love: “May good fortune be with you, may your guiding light be strong/Build a stairway to heaven with a prince or a vagabond”

• “Small Bump,” by Ed Sheeran: A tender and intimate song about the preciousness of new life and love, could be adapted to reflect the preciousness of the mother-son bond from birth onwards. *Lyrics of Love*: “You are my one, and only/You can wrap your fingers round my thumb and hold me tight”

• “Landslide,” by Fleetwood Mac: A reflective song about change and growth while seeking reassurance, symbolizing the evolving yet constant nature of the mother-son relationship. Lyrics of Love: “Oh, mirror in the sky/What is love?/Can the child within my heart rise above?”

• “Sweet Pea,” by Amos Lee: A sweet and affectionate song, a term of endearment, expressing simple and pure love. Lyrics of Love: “Hey, sweet pea/Apple of my eye/Don’t know when, and I don’t know why/But you’re the only reason I keep on coming home”

• “Wildflowers,” by Tom Petty: An empowering and appreciative song celebrating someone’s free spirit and unique beauty, reflecting a mother’s admiration for her son’s individuality. Lyrics of Love: “You belong among the wildflowers/You belong in a boat out at sea/You belong with your love on your arm/You belong somewhere you feel free”

• “Sweetest Devotion,” by Adele: A powerful and passionate song declaring the intensity of love and devotion, conveying a son’s profound love for his mother. Lyrics of Love: “The sweetest devotion/Hitting me like an explosion/All of my life, I’ve been frozen/The sweetest devotion I’ve ever known”

• “Take Your Mama,” by Scissor Sisters: A fun and upbeat song, though cheeky, it can be a playful and unconventional choice for a mother-son dance if the relationship is lighthearted and humorous. Lyrics of Love: “When you grow up, livin’ like a good boy oughta/And your mama, takes a shine to her best son/Something different, all the girls they seem to like you/Cause you’re handsome, like to talk and a whole lot of fun”

• “Teach Your Children,” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: A song about the importance of love and guidance in raising children, reflecting the values a mother imparts to her son. Lyrics of Love: “The one they picks, the one you’ll know by/Don’t you ever ask them why, if they told you, you will cry/So just look at them and sigh/And know they love you”

• “Your Song,” by Elton John: A classic love song that can be reinterpreted as a song of love and appreciation from a son to his mother, expressing heartfelt emotions simply and sincerely. Lyrics of Love: “And you, you’ll be blessed/You’ll have the best/I promise you that/I’ll pick a star from the sky”

• “In My Life,” by The Beatles: A reflective song about cherishing memories and loved ones throughout life, acknowledging the enduring impact of a mother’s presence. Lyrics of Love: “All these places had their moments/With lovers and friends, I still can recall/Some are dead, and some are living/In my life, I’ve loved them all”

• “I Look To You,” by Whitney Houston: A powerful ballad about finding strength and support in another person, conveying reliance and admiration for a mother’s strength. Lyrics of Love: “I look to you/I look to you/After all my strength is gone/In you I can be strong”

• “A Song for Mama,” by Boyz II Men: A direct and heartfelt R&B ballad dedicated to mothers, expressing love, gratitude, and admiration. Lyrics of Love: “Mama, Mama you know I love you/You know I love you/Mama, Mama you’re the queen of my heart”

• “Hero,” by Mariah Carey: An empowering song about inner strength and admiration for a hero, which can be dedicated to a mother as a son’s hero figure. Lyrics of Love: “And then a hero comes along/With the strength to carry on/And you cast your fears aside/And you know you can survive”

• “Mother,” by Overcoats: A modern indie-pop song expressing a desire for a mother’s love and guidance, even in adulthood, highlighting the enduring need for maternal comfort. Lyrics of Love: “Mama, don’t you love him so?/Just wanna light the way wherever he goes/And kiss his forehead when he needs to know/He’ll have a home with you/You won’t be alone”

• “Sweet Love of Mine,” by Joy Williams: A tender and folk-inspired song about a deep and cherished bond, perfect for expressing the preciousness of the mother-son relationship. Lyrics of Love: “Oh, my darling, sweet love of mine/I’ll hold you all through the night/I gave you your name; you gave me back my life/You’re the heart of me, oh, sweet love of mine”

• “Hey, Ma,” by Bon Iver: An indie folk song, more abstract, but can evoke feelings of returning home and seeking comfort from a mother’s love. Lyrics of Love: “Tall time to call your Ma/Hey Ma, hey Ma/Tall vote, you know you mope it up/Well, you wanted it your whole life/You’re back and forth with light”

• “Old Pine,” by Ben Howard: An acoustic and nostalgic song that can represent shared memories and steadfastness, reflecting on enduring moments in the mother-son relationship. Lyrics of Love: “We stood/Steady as the stars in the woods/So happy-hearted/And the warmth rang true inside these bones”

• “Step,” by Vampire Weekend: Indie rock with reflective lyrics on wisdom and aging, can be interpreted as appreciating a mother’s wisdom and guidance through life. Lyrics of Love: “Wisdom’s a gift, but you’d trade it for youth/Age is an honor, it’s still not the truth/We saw the stars when they hid from the world”

• “Home,” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes: An upbeat and joyful anthem about finding home in love and companionship, celebrating the warmth and comfort of a mother’s love. Lyrics of Love: “Oh, home, let me come home/Home is wherever I’m with you/Oh, home, let me come home/Home is wherever I’m with you”

• “Only One,” by Kanye West feat. Paul McCartney: A poignant and emotional song written from the perspective of Kanye’s late mother, but can be reinterpreted as a message of enduring love and spiritual connection from a mother to her son. Lyrics of Love: “And when you cry, I will cry/ And when you smile, I will smile/And next time when I look in your eyes/We’ll have wings and we’ll fly”

• “Montezuma,” by Fleet Foxes: Harmonious and introspective, this song can represent the selfless and true love experienced in a mother-son relationship. Lyrics of Love: “Oh, how could I dream of/Such a selfless and true love/Could I wash my hands of/Just looking out for me”

• “My Mother’s Eye,” by Etta Jones: A soulful jazz rendition about the guiding light and moral compass found in a mother’s eyes. Lyrics of Love: “One bright and guiding light/That taught me wrong from right/I found in my mother’s eyes”

• “Time After Time,” by Cyndi Lauper: A pop classic about unwavering support and presence, promising to always be there, mirroring a mother’s constant support. *Lyrics of Love*: “If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me/Time after time/If you fall, I will catch you, I’ll be waiting/Time after time”

• “I’ll Be There,” by the Jackson Five: An upbeat and soulful promise of unwavering support and presence, perfect for a more joyful and celebratory mother-son dance. Lyrics of Love: “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 (I’ll be there)”

• “Loves Me Like A Rock,” by Paul Simon: A gospel-infused and energetic song about the steadfast and unwavering love of a mother. Lyrics of Love: “Oh, my mama loves me, she loves me/She get down on her knees and hug me/Oh, she loves me like a rock/She rock me like the rock of ages”

• “Child of Mine,” by Carole King: A tender and heartfelt song celebrating the unique wonder and joy of a child, from a mother’s perspective. Lyrics of Love: “Although you see the world different than me/Sometimes I can touch upon the wonders that you see/And all the new colors and pictures you’ve designed/Oh yes, sweet darling, so glad you are a child of mine”

• “Blessed,” by Elton John: A song expressing blessings and wishes for a loved one’s happiness and future, a beautiful sentiment from a son to his mother. Lyrics of Love: “And you, you’ll be blessed/You’ll have the best, I promise you that/I’ll pick a star from the sky/Pull your name from a hat/I promise you that, I promise you that”

• “Have I Told You Lately,” by Rod Stewart: A tender and romantic song about expressing love, which can be adapted to express a son’s deep love and appreciation for his mother. Lyrics of Love: “Have I told you lately that I love you/Have I told you there’s no one else above you/You fill my heart with gladness/Take away all my sadness/Ease my troubles, that’s what you do”

• “Simple Man,” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: A classic rock ballad with simple yet profound advice from a mother to her son about life, love, and values. Lyrics of Love: “You’ll find a woman and you’ll find love/And don’t forget, son, there is someone up above”

• “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” by Guns N’ Roses: While rock anthemic, the core of the song is about cherishing a loved one who evokes childhood memories and pure joy, which can be dedicated to a mother. Lyrics of Love: “She’s got a smile that it seems to me/Reminds me of childhood memories/Where everything was as fresh as the bright blue sky”

• “Never Alone,” by Lady A: A country-pop song about enduring love and presence, promising to always be there, mirroring a mother’s unwavering support. Lyrics of Love: “Wherever you fly/This isn’t goodbye/My love will follow you, stay with you/Baby, you’re never alone”

• “Mama Said,” by Lukas Graham: A soulful pop song reflecting on a mother’s comforting words and guidance through life’s ups and downs. Lyrics of Love: “When mama said that it was okay/Mama said that it was quite alright/Our kind of people had a bed for the night/And it was okay”

• “River,” by Leon Bridges: A soulful and spiritual song about seeking cleansing and redemption, referencing a mother’s words of wisdom and faith. Lyrics of Love: “In my darkness I remember/Momma’s words reoccur to me/Surrender to the good Lord/And he’ll wipe your slate clean”

• “Hey Mama,” by Kanye West: A hip-hop tribute to his mother, filled with love and gratitude, offering a contemporary and personal expression of motherly appreciation. Lyrics of Love: “You know I love you so, I’ll never let you go/I wrote this song just so you know no matter where you go Imma love you”

• “A Mother’s Prayer,” by K. Michelle: A heartfelt R&B ballad expressing a mother’s prayers and wishes for her child’s well-being and happiness. Lyrics of Love: “Last night I prayed on a fallen star/That you never have a broken heart/Though the world is cold, just remember who you are/And I pray that you never have a rainy day”

• “Protector,” by Beyoncé and Rumi Carter: A powerful and protective song about a mother’s role as a protector and guide, showcasing fierce maternal love. Lyrics of Love: “And I will lead you down that road if you lose your way/Born to be your protector, mm/Even though I know someday you’re gonna shine on your own/I will be your projector, mm, mhm”

• “Close Your Eyes” by Michael Bublé: A smooth and jazzy song expressing deep admiration and appreciation for someone special, perfect for conveying a son’s heartfelt feelings for his mother. Lyrics of Love: “Close your eyes/Let me tell you all the reasons why/Think you’re one of a kind/Here’s to you/The one that always pulls us through”

• “Nobody’s Love,” by Maroon 5: While a romantic song, the core message of not wanting to let go of a loved one can be reinterpreted to express the irreplaceable bond with a mother. Lyrics of Love: “You can make a grown man cry/If you ever said, ‘Goodbye’/Never let you go, oh, why?”

• “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” by Stevie Wonder: A bright and joyful song declaring someone as the source of happiness and light, perfectly capturing the positive influence of a mother. Lyrics of Love: “You are the sunshine of my life/That’s why I’ll always stay around/You are the apple of my eye/Forever you’ll stay in my heart”

• “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” by Randy Newman: A classic song about enduring friendship and support, symbolizing the lifelong friendship between a mother and son. Lyrics of Love: “You got troubles, I’ve got ’em too/There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you/We stick together and see it through/’Cause you’ve got a friend in me”

• “The Wonder of You,” by Elvis Presley: A song expressing awe and admiration for someone who provides comfort and hope, reflecting a son’s admiration for his mother’s strength. Lyrics of Love: “Oh oh oh/When no one else can understand me/When everything I do is wrong/You give me hope and consolation”

• “Like My Mother Does,” by Lauren Alaina: A country song specifically about emulating a mother’s loving and caring ways, celebrating her positive influence. Lyrics of Love: “When I love I give it all I’ve got/Like my mother does/When I’m scared, I bow my head and pray/Like my mother does”

• “God’s Been Good to Me,” by Keith Urban: A country song expressing gratitude for blessings in life, which can be attributed to a mother’s love and upbringing. Lyrics of Love: “And everything I have, and everything I see/Is just another reminder that God’s been good to me”

• “If I Didn’t Have You,” by Thompson Square: A country duet about the importance of a loved one, expressing how essential they are to one’s life, which can be dedicated to a mother. Lyrics of Love: “You are my heart/Every breath I breathe/I’m safe in your arms/You rescue me”

• “Mom,” by Meghan Trainor: A pop song directly and playfully celebrating mothers and the unique bond with them. Lyrics of Love: “But ain’t nobody got a mom like mine/Her love’s ’til the end, she’s my best friend/Ain’t nobody got a mom like mine”

• “Remedy,” by Adele: A powerful ballad about being a source of comfort and support for a loved one, promising unwavering presence and help. Lyrics of Love: “No river is too wide or too deep for me to swim to you/Come whatever/I’ll be the shelter that won’t let the rain come through”

• “Dear Mom & Dad,” by Us the Duo: An acoustic and heartfelt song expressing gratitude to parents for their sacrifices and love, perfect for acknowledging a mother’s role. Lyrics of Love: “Gonna get you back one day and show you what you did for me/No, you won’t ever see it comin’/I never got what you were doing for me at the time/But now I see it, now I get it”

• “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” by Stevie Wonder: A simple and direct expression of love, perfect for a straightforward and heartfelt message to a mother. Lyrics of Love: “I just called to say I love you/I just called to say how much I care, I do/I just called to say I love you/And I mean it from the bottom of my heart”

• “I’ll Be There,” by Mac Miller (feat. Phonte): A hip-hop track with a sentimental core, reflecting on a mother’s early support and enduring presence throughout life. Lyrics of Love: “Hey, see, I was six years old with a dream/When my moms told me I can do anything/Said she’d be there forever, no matter what’s the weather”

• “Return to Pooh Corner,” Kenny Loggins: A nostalgic and sweet song about childhood and the transition to adulthood, reflecting on the enduring comfort and love associated with childhood and a mother’s care. Lyrics of Love: “After all’s said and done I was watching my son/Sleeping there with my bear by his side/So I tucked him in, I kissed him and as I was going/I swear that the old bear whispered “Boy welcome home”‘

FAQ About Mother-Son Wedding Dances

Do I have to include a mother-son dance at my wedding?

Absolutely not. The decision to include a mother-son dance is entirely personal. If you or your mother are not comfortable with it, or if it doesn’t align with your wedding vision, there are many other meaningful ways to honor her. Consider writing a heartfelt letter, including her in your thank-you speech, or inviting her to be part of the wedding party entrance. The most important thing is to choose what feels right for you and your mother.

When is the best time for the mother-son dance during the wedding reception?

Traditionally, the mother-son dance follows the couple’s first dance and the father-daughter dance. This sequence usually marks the beginning of the reception festivities, often after the bridal party entrance. However, there’s no strict rule. You can incorporate the mother-son dance at various points throughout the day. Some couples use it as a transition between cocktail hour and the reception, or between dinner and the dance floor opening. Flexibility is key to tailoring your wedding timeline to your preferences.

What makes a mother-son dance song truly special?

The most important factor in choosing a mother-son dance song is its personal significance to your relationship with your mother. A truly special song is one that evokes shared memories, resonates with your bond, and reflects your personalities. If you and your mother have a fun-loving dynamic, an upbeat song can be perfect. If you prefer sentimentality and nostalgia, a song that brings back cherished childhood memories would be ideal. Ultimately, the best song is one that feels authentic and meaningful to both of you.

Who should choose the mother-son dance song?

Traditionally, the groom takes the lead in selecting the mother-son dance song. This song is meant to reflect his relationship with his mother, so his input is paramount. However, it’s a collaborative decision. If your mother has a particular song in mind, or if you want to choose it together, that’s perfectly acceptable. Open communication and ensuring both of you are happy with the selection is the most important aspect of choosing the song.