It’s that time of the year again where family and friends come together and an abundance of food is prepared. Like all gatherings, deciding on what music to play is an important factor to help set the mood or to liven up the atmosphere. In terms of music selection, it may seem that Thanksgiving doesn’t have as many songs as Christmas does. However, when thinking about the meaning of the holiday, there’s indeed a plethora of songs relating to being thankful, family and friends, and (of course) food! Here are some songs to add to your next Turkey Day playlist.
- “Thanksgiving Day” by Ray Davis
-
This song highlights the importance that through times of suffering and loneliness, Thanksgiving offers the opportunity to be surrounded by loved ones and to reminisce about the past. It further provides an open invitation for others to come over and celebrate together.
- “Thanksgiving Theme” by Vince Guaraldi Trio
-
A popular animated film to watch during the holiday is A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. This movie follows the iconic Peanuts characters and what they do leading up to a Thanksgiving feast. This instrumental track is featured in the film, and is perfect to play when having conversations with others without the issue of talking over lyrics.
- “Thanksgiving Prayer” by Johnny Cash
-
Also known as “I’m Thanking the Lord He Made You,” Johnny Cash sings about being grateful for the blessings in his life. He’s thankful about the things that make life worth living and says, “Thanksgiving day for the rest of my life,” indicating that everyday one should remember why they’re thankful.
- “Be Thankful For What You’ve Got” by William DeVaughn
-
This soulful track, originally titled “A Cadillac Don’t Come Easy,” talks about being pleased with what one already owns. It’s important to remember the belongings one has because there are people who don’t have the same privilege. Even though an individual may not have luxurious assets, self-worth and value is the most important possession of all. Having expensive items doesn’t (and shouldn’t) define a person.
- “Thankful” by Kelly Clarkson
-
Kelly Clarkson sings about being thankful for her loved ones and the lessons she has learned from them. She highlights how being surrounded by those who support and understand her bring out the best in her. This laid-back track is perfect for any playlist since it conveys positivity and provides a feel good sensation.
- “Kind & Generous” by Natalie Merchant
-
This song is a thank you to those who have been “Kind & Generous.” While it is a superb song for Thanksgiving, it’s also great to send to someone who needs an occasional pick-me-up. Consider it a musical thank you card.
- “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge
-
What better song about family than “We Are Family?” This iconic track is a must-play to get the party going and, with its memorable chorus, will surely develop into an earworm.
- “Daughters” by John Mayer
-
This song is about how parents should have a positive relationship with their daughters to avoid future complications. However, the same could be said about other family members too. In this scenario, parents have the strongest impact on their children since their actions will affect their children’s behavior and life choices. During Thanksgiving, while everyone is celebrating together, people should maintain a healthy atmosphere so as to avoid conflict. By having problems air out during this holiday, it can negatively affect future events by discouraging some to not attend.
- “We’re Going To Be Friends” by The White Stripes
-
This simplistic track tells the story of becoming friends with someone from school. Depending on the listener’s age, the lyrics evoke memories of meeting a new person and becoming well acquainted with them. Having this song played during a Friendsgiving feast will hearten the atmosphere and make it seem like a scene in a feel-good movie.
- “Biscuits” by Kacey Musgraves
-
In “Biscuits,” Kacey Musgraves tells people to mind their own business so that, “life will be gravy.” This message is a great anthem for college students who return home for Thanksgiving and receive pesky questions about their life from nosy relatives.
- “Apple Pie” by Destiny (Princess Nokia)
-
In this song, Destiny, one of Princess Nokia’s alter egos and her real name, describes her love life as, “warm and fun like apple pie,” portraying how a relationship can feel homey and sweet. The track includes a nursery rhyme melody, furthering sweet and innocent themes.
- “Vegetables” by The Beach Boys
-
“Vegetables” is an anthem for vegetable lovers everywhere. The song encourages everyone to eat their veggies and provides a positive connotation to them.
Hopefully, these songs helped in creating a Thanksgiving playlist. Whether these songs play in the background of awkward family conversations or while dining on holiday classics, it’s sure to bring in good vibes. Happy holidays!