Updated March 26, 2024 | Author: Matthew Campbell
Know popular songs that celebrate a relationship between a Mom and Daughter.
Mother-daughter songs are special songs between a daughter and her mother – this includes a bride and her mother. Brides can celebrate their mothers on their wedding day in the form of a dedication or dance during the wedding reception.
Quick Tips
When picking out the song to dance the mother-daughter wedding dance, you must consider the following 3 factors:
1. Does the song have a special meaning to both of you?
2. Does the song’s meaning describe your relationship?
3. What is the tempo of the song (fast or slow) to determine the style of dance that fits best?
As an experienced wedding DJ, I’ve assembled a list of songs for the mother-daughter dance. Songs are selected by the meaning of the song and popular hits by today’s brides. Besides the relationship type between the mother and bride, additional lists are grouped by genre to match your taste in music.
Trending Mother And Daughter Dance Songs
This list highlights some of the hottest trends in mother-daughter wedding songs, offering a mix of music genres. Get ready to find the perfect song that celebrates your one-of-a-kind relationship and makes your special dance or dedication truly unforgettable.
“When God Made You My Mother” by Riley Roth
(Country – 2021)
The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotional resonance beautifully sum up the special bond between a mother and daughter. The song’s message expresses gratitude and appreciation for the love, support, and guidance that your mother has provided throughout your life.
“Mom” by Meghan Trainor feat. Kelli Trainor
(Pop – 2016)
An upbeat track that celebrates the unique bond between a mother and daughter. The song’s joyful and uplifting tone captures the essence of your relationship, highlighting moments of love, support, and shared memories. By dancing to this song with your mother, you can express your appreciation and gratitude for all the sacrifices and love your mother has shown throughout her life.
“Slow Down” by Nichole Nordeman
(Christian – 2015)
The lyrics express a mother’s bittersweet joy in watching her child grow up. You might choose it to celebrate the special bond you share and acknowledge your mother’s feelings of both pride and sadness as you move on.
“Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina
(Country – 2011)
The song celebrates a strong female role model and expresses your desire to emulate your mother’s strength, love, and approach to life. It’s a sweet way to thank your mom and show how much you admire her.
“Mama” by Spice Girls
(Pop – 1996)
The song emphasizes the deep emotional connection between mothers and daughters, with lyrics about a mother’s unwavering support through thick and thin. “Mama” is a ballad with a positive and energetic vibe. You might choose it for a more lighthearted and fun dance with your mom.
“A Mother’s Prayer” by Celine Dion
(Pop – 2004)
The lyrics express a mother’s love and desire for her daughter’s safety and happiness. It can be a touching way for you to acknowledge your mother’s unwavering support and well wishes. If the song holds special meaning for your relationship, it can create a very intimate moment for a dance.
“Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift
(Country – 2010)
The song reflects on childhood memories and cherishing simpler times. It creates a sentimental atmosphere for the dance, allowing you to reminisce about your younger years. While originally written from a child’s viewpoint, you can interpret it from your mother’s perspective. It becomes a way to thank your mom for nurturing your childhood and acknowledge the bittersweet emotions of letting go.
“Mama’s Hand” by Queen Naija
(R&B – 2018)
The song celebrates a mother’s unwavering support and guidance. You might choose it to express gratitude for your mother’s role in shaping you into the woman you are today. It offers a more contemporary R&B vibe compared to traditional ballads too.
“A Mother Like You” by JJ Heller
(Singer-Songwriter – 2019)
The song is sung from the daughter’s perspective, directly expressing gratitude and appreciation for the unique qualities that make her mother special. This heartfelt song creates a warm and intimate atmosphere for a dance or dedication, allowing you to celebrate your special bond.
“Shiny” by Sara Bareilles
(Folk – 2019)
The lyrics celebrate finding your own light and potential but also acknowledge your mother’s influence. It allows you to express gratitude for your mother’s support while embracing her own journey.
New Mother-Daughter Songs
“On Purpose (For My Future Daughter) ” by Bellah Mae
(Pop – 2023)
The song is written from a mother’s perspective to her future daughter. However, you could interpret it to be about your mother’s hopes and dreams as a reflection of her own upbringing. It becomes a way to thank your mom for raising you with love and purpose.
“Mama’s Do ” by The Dryes
(Country – 2023)
The song’s lighthearted tone and quirky lyrics about a mother’s quirks and habits could resonate with you who has a fun and playful relationship with your mom. Despite the lightheartedness, the song acknowledges the love and support a mother provides.
“Mama’s Eyes” by Tenille Arts
(Country – 2023)
The song explores wanting to see your accomplishments through your mother’s love. The lyrics touch on the idea of a mother’s influence being passed down. You might choose it to acknowledge the bond you share and how your mother has shaped who you are.
“Girls” by Rachel Platten
(Pop – 2023)
The song celebrates the strength and resilience of women. You might choose it to highlight the special bond with your mother, seeing her not just as a parent but as a fellow woman embarking on new chapters. “Girls” is a catchy and energetic anthem too.
“Everything Was For Love” by Carla Morrison
(Soundtrack – 2023)
The song reflects on the bittersweet passage of time and the sacrifices a mother makes for her child. You might choose it to express gratitude for your mother’s love and acknowledge the changing dynamic of your relationship.
“She’s Superman” by Taylor Austin Dye
(Country – 2023)
Its touching lyrics celebrate the strength, love, and resilience of your bond. The song’s message portrays your mother as a hero figure, embodying unwavering support and guidance through life’s challenges.
“Light On In The Kitchen” by Ashley McBryde
(Country – 2023)
The song celebrates the wisdom and strength passed down from your mother to you. The lyrics focus on the little pieces of advice and everyday moments that shape who you are, making it a sweet tribute to your mother’s influence.
“superhuman” by Bishop Briggs
(Pop – 2022)
While the song is about strength and perseverance, it leans more towards overcoming personal challenges than a specific relationship. For a mother-daughter dance, you might focus on the bond between you.
“Hey Ma I Made It” by Ella Langley
(Country – 2022)
The song’s uplifting lyrics and celebratory tone perfectly capture the sense of accomplishment and gratitude that comes with reaching significant milestones. By dancing to this song with your mother, you can express your appreciation for the unwavering love and guidance that has helped you succeed.
“Mamas” by Anne Wilson, Hillary Scott
(Country – 2022)
The song celebrates your mother’s unwavering love and support, a perfect sentiment for you to express gratitude on your wedding day. It resonates especially if you share a close bond with your mom.
“Child of Mine” by Michaela Anne
(Folk – 2022)
The lyrics express a mother’s pride in her daughter’s independence and growth, while still offering unwavering support. This symbolizes a bride’s transition into a new chapter while cherishing the mother-daughter bond.
“My Mother’s Hand” by Jill Barber
(American – 2022)
The song reflects on a mother’s constant presence and influence, even as the daughter builds her own life. This could be a beautiful way for you to acknowledge your mother’s role and express gratitude as you start your own family.
“Cover Me In Sunshine” by P!nk, Willow Sage Hart
(Pop – 2021)
The lyrics express a desire for warmth, love, and positivity. The song’s melody and heartfelt message convey a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the supportive and nurturing relationship between a mother and daughter. By dancing to this song together, you can symbolize the enduring bond and connection you share with your mother, while also celebrating the joy and happiness that your relationship brings into your life.
“Morning” by Sarah Jarosz
(Pop – 2021)
The song’s vibe is tender and celebrates growth and new beginnings. It could represent your mother watching you blossom and enter a new chapter in life, while still cherishing the memories you’ve shared.
“You Will Always Be (My Baby Girl)” by Angel Sessions
(R&B – 2021)
The lyrics beautifully capture the enduring love and affection between a mother and her daughter. The song’s emotional resonance and tender melody evoke a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the special bond you share. By dancing to this song together, you can express your gratitude for your mother’s unwavering support, guidance, and unconditional love.
Popular Mom and Daughter Hits
Pop
- superhuman – Bishop Briggs
- You’ll Be in My Heart – Brent Morgan
- My Hero – Westlife
- Cover Me In Sunshine – P!nk, Willow Sage Hart
- Morning – Sarah Jarosz
- Her – Anne-Marie
- Shiny – Sara Bareilles
- Little Girl – Christina Grimmie
- Mom – Meghan Trainor feat. Kelli Trainor
- Sweetest Devotion – Adele
- Blue – Beyoncé
- In My Life – Chantal Kreviazuk
- Little Things – One Direction
- Every Mother’s Dream – Teresa James
- Count on Me – Bruno Mars
- Always There – Canadian Tenors
- Oh Mother – Christina Aguilera
- A Mother’s Prayer – Celine Dion
- Mama – Il Divo
- You Don’t Have To Let Go – Jessica Simpson
- Goodbye’s (The Saddest Word) – Celine Dion
- I’m Blessed to Call You Mother – Molly Pasutti
- My Baby You – Marc Anthony
- I Turn To You – Christina Aguilera
- My Mother’s Eyes – Bette Midler
- Mama – Spice Girls
- Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
- Hero – Mariah Carey
- Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
- Slipping Through My Fingers – ABBA
- You and Me Against the World – Helen Reddy
- What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
- God Only Knows – Beach Boys
- Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera) – Doris Day
Tip Another popular way to honor your mother is to have a mom-son dance for your wedding.
R&B
- You Will Always Be (My Baby Girl) – Angel Sessions
- Stand – Haley Smalls
- My Song – H.E.R.
- Mama’s Hand – Queen Naija
- Right By You (for Luna) – John Legend
- Promises – Jhene Aiko feat. NAMIKO & Miyagi
- Girl On Fire – Alicia Keys
- Mother’s Love – KEM
- Mother – Ashanti
- By Your Side – Sade
- I’ll Be There – Mariah Carey feat. Trey Lorenz
- Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder
- You Are the Sunshine of My Life – Stevie Wonder
- I’ll Be There – Jackson 5
- My Girl – Temptations
Tip If you have a stepmother, see our list of stepmom songs for a dance or dedication.
Country
- Hey Ma I Made It – Ella Langley
- Mamas – Anne Wilson, Hillary Scott
- When God Made You My Mother – Riley Roth
- Hey Mama – Britnee Kellogg
- Lady – Brett Young
- Mother – Sugarland
- If It Wasn’t for a Woman – Kellie Pickler
- Mother Like Mine – Band Perry
- Like My Mother Does – Lauren Alaina
- Teenage Daughters – Martina McBride
- Mama’s Song – Carrie Underwood
- Never Grow Up – Taylor Swift
- The Best Day – Taylor Swift
- My Wish – Rascal Flatts
- Somebody’s Hero – Jamie O’Neal
- You’re Gonna Be – Reba McEntire
- Baby Girl – Sugarland
- In My Daughter’s Eyes – Martina McBride
- There You’ll Be – Faith Hill
- I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
- I’ll Be – Reba McEntire
- 26 (Cents Sign) – Wilkinsons
- You Can’t Lose Me – Faith Hill
- Letting Go – Suzy Bogguss
- Love Can Build a Bridge – The Judds
- Mama He’s Crazy – The Judds
Tip If you want to dance with your mother-in-law, see our list of mother-in-law songs for a dance or dedication.
Christian
- Slow Down – Nichole Nordeman
- Barbie Bandaids – Isaacs
- How You Live (Turn Up the Music) – Point of Grace
- I Believe in You – Steven Curtis Chapman
- I Will Be Here – Steven Curtis Chapman
- Oh How The Years Go By – Amy Grant
Tip If you wish to save time and highlight your parents with a single dance, plan a wedding dance with both parents.
Rock
- utopia – Lykke Li
- Promise – Tori Amos
- I Love You Because – Elvis & Lisa Marie Presley
- Thank You Mom – Good Charlotte
- My Darling – Wilco
- Can You Feel The Love Tonight – Elton John
- Wildflowers – Tom Petty
- Have I Told You Lately – Rod Stewart
- Forever Young – Rod Stewart
- You’re My Best Friend – Queen
- Teach Your Children – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Tip Another special moment at receptions, if you have siblings, is to have a sister wedding songs and/or song for a sister to dedicate to a brother.
Indie
- I Get To Be The One – JJ Heller
- A Mother Like You – JJ Heller
- Where You Lead, I Will Follow – Carole King
- You’ve Got A Friend – Carole King
Misc
- My Mother’s Hand – Jill Barber
- Child of Mine – Michaela Anne
- Lay of the Heartland – Rose Rock Daughters
- You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
- Sunrise, Sunset – Cast from Fiddler On The Roof
My mother and daughter’s Spotify playlist has more than 5,000 likes!
Tip Just like mothers and daughters have a close relationship, so do fathers and sons. See a list of songs about a father son relationship.
FAQs
Of course, there are. First, select the style of music that you and your mom like the best. Then, listen to the lyrics that best describe your love for each other. Also, It is up to you if you want a song sung by a male or female to dedicate to your daughter or mother.
Some of the best country mother-daughter songs for dedication are sung by female artists. These songs include “Mamas” by Anne Wilson, and Hillary Scott, “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina, and “In My Daughter’s Eyes” by Martina McBride.
A good song for a mother to dedicate to her daughter is one in which the lyrics describe their relationship from the mother’s perspective. One great song to choose would be “Cover Me In Sunshine ” with both Pink and her daughter Willow Sage Hart singing on the track.
If the song is a dedication from a father to his daughter from the father’s perspective, a great song to choose would be “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw. This is also a very popular father-daughter dance song.
When selecting a song to dedicate to your mom, listen to the lyrics to find one that describes your relationship. Popular songs chosen to dedicate to their mothers from daughters include “Mom” by Meghan Trainor, Kelli Trainor, “A Mother Like You” by JJ Heller, and “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina.
In the past, this was uncommon because tradition favored the typical roles. With single parents and same-sex parents, the mother-daughter dance will only become more prominent. If you’d like to dance with the parent or parent figure of your choice, by all means, do so.
If the father of the bride passes away before the wedding date or had no relations with the bride, a special dance between the bride with her mother may replace the father-daughter dance.
The most important issue is that you discuss these options with your DJ or music entertainment. Some brides opt to dedicate a song to their mother during the reception instead. That can be an upbeat song to celebrate their friendship as well as their love. And, of course, keep the party going.
Sadly, sometimes the mother-of-the-bride passes away before the wedding. Though sad, it may be a good time to remember your times, even with a slide show. So many special women in our lives fill the mother role – aunts, grandmothers, friends, and mentors. It’s your special day. Honor the people that matter most to you. Two songs to consider are “Show Me Around” by Carly Pearce and “Visiting Hours” by Ed Sheeran.
Why trustMatthew Campbell?
DJ, Author, Music Lover
Matthew (Matt) Campbell is the founder/editor of My Wedding Songs from his experience as a wedding DJ. He is the author of two wedding planners: ‘Wedding Songs Planner’ and ‘The Wedding Music Toolkit’. Matt is the host of the ‘Wedding Songs Podcast’. He shares music inspiration in his weekly newsletter the ‘Wedding MusicLetter’. His articles have been published on Rolling Stone, DJ Life Magazine, and DJ Times. Matt resides in the wedding capital of the world – Las Vegas.
