Weddings are a time for celebration and the Mother Son Dance is no exception! This dance is more than a tradition; it’s a heartfelt moment, a shared experience that celebrates the bond between a mother and her son. It’s a part of the wedding that can evoke a spectrum of emotions, from joyous tears to laughter, encapsulating memories of the past while looking forward to the future. With the importance of this dance in mind, selecting the perfect song becomes paramount. It’s not just about finding a tune that’s danceable; it’s about finding a song that encapsulates the unique relationship between a mother and her son.
Crafting the ultimate playlist for this occasion, we’ve gathered a collection of 83 songs that span genres, eras, and moods, ensuring there’s a track that resonates with every kind of bond. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, these songs are chosen for their emotional depth, lyrical relevance, and melody that makes for an unforgettable dance. Whether you’re looking for something sweet and sentimental, upbeat and joyful, or a song that’s profoundly meaningful, our curated list promises to have something that will make your mother-son dance a highlight of your wedding day.
What is the Mother-Son 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. It will most likely be filmed and photographed, so be sure to choose a special song for the two of you.
Some wedding couples combine the father daughter dance with the mother son dance (for a parent dance) or maybe one of your parents is not able to attend or has passed. If that is the case, often a sibling, friend, or another parent can fill in as a replacement, so that is an option as well! For this one, both couples dance to the same song. A few songs we love for this include: “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts, “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack, “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole, “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, or “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders.
How do you choose a Mother-Son dance song?
If you don’t know where to start, pick a genre you both love and there’s bound to be a song in that genre that works for you both! And there are no rules that say it has to be a slow song! You do the two of you!! It should be your special moment, so choose a song that has personal meaning to you.
To help you choose the perfect song for your special moment with Mom, we’ve compiled 83 of the best Mother-Son dance songs out there – with big thanks to lots of input from past and current GWS couples! – and we organized them into genres.
And the best way to decide if you aren’t familiar with the songs? Check out our Spotify playlist – preferably with your Mom and a glass of wine!
Ready for the Best Mother-Son Dance Songs?
Slow Mother-Son Dance Songs
In the cherished moments of a wedding, the mother son dance stands as a poignant symbol of the enduring bond between a mother and her son. Opting for a slow song for this dance is like weaving a thread of timeless grace and emotional depth into the fabric of the celebration. It allows for a gentle, unhurried pace where every step and turn is a reflection of years of love, care, and shared memories. Such a song sets the perfect backdrop for an intimate moment, enabling both mother and son to express their feelings without words, in the language of music and movement. It’s a pause in the whirlwind of the day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future with warmth and affection.
Looking for a slow song to dance to? You can’t go wrong with any of these beautiful songs…
- “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton
- “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
- “Summer Wind” by Frank Sinatra
- “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole
- “You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor
- “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole
- “Do I make you proud” by Taylor Hicks
- “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
- “Hey, Ma” by Bon Iver
- “Time After Time” by Iron and Wine
- “A Mother’s Song” by Daniel Kirkley
- “Here Comes the Sun Again” by M. Ward
- “All My Tomorrows” by Frank Sinatra
- “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
- “Have I Told You Lately” by Van Morrison
- “All You Need Is Love” by The Beatles
- “Beautiful Boy” by John Lennon
- “Thank You For Loving Me” by Bon Jovi
Upbeat + Fun Mother-Son Dance Songs
Choosing a fast and upbeat song for the mother son dance at a wedding is a vibrant and joyous twist on tradition, embodying the spirit of celebration and the unique bond shared between a mother and her son. It’s an opportunity to showcase personality, energy, and the joyous journey that has led to this moment. We believe in celebrating love with a flair for the unique and memorable, and what could be more unforgettable than a dance floor filled with laughter, coordinated dance moves, or even spontaneous joy?
This choice of music invites not just the mother and son but also the guests into a moment of pure happiness and festivity, turning the dance into a lively highlight of the wedding. It breaks away from the expected to create a fun, inclusive atmosphere where the love, fun, and individuality of the family shine brightly.
- “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen
- “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys
- “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” by Marvin Gaye
- “Home” by Phillip Phillips
- “I Say a Little Prayer” by Aretha Franklin
- “One Love / People Get Ready” by Bob Marley
- “Rainbow Connection” by The Muppets
- “I’ll Always Love My Mama” by The Intruders
- “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars
- “We are Family” by Sister Sledge
- “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
- “Mother” by Pink Floyd
- “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Martin Gaye, Tammi Terrell
Pop + Indie Mother Son Dance Songs
Opting for a Pop or Indie song for the mother-son dance is a modern and heartfelt nod to the individuality and shared experiences that define the unique bond between mother and son. These genres offer a wide spectrum of lyrical themes and musical styles, from upbeat anthems to introspective ballads, ensuring that you can find a song that mirrors the distinct narrative of your relationship. Whether it’s the catchy melody of a Pop hit that brings back memories of car rides and singalongs, or the emotional depth of an Indie track that speaks to the soul of your bond, choosing a song from these genres adds a personal touch that resonates with your story.
- “Sweetest Devotion” by Adele
- “Mom” by Meghan Trainor
- “Hey Mama” by Kanye West
- “I’ll Be There” by Mac Miller ft. Phonte
- “Letter to My Mother” by Edwin McCain
- “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
- “Beautiful Boy” by Ben Harper
- “Have I Told You Lately” by Rod Stewart
- “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel
- “Love Of My Life” by Carly Simon
- “Love is a Verb” by John Mayer
- “Loves Me Like a Rock” by Paul Simon
- “The One Thing” by Shakira
- “Thank You Mom” by Good Charlotte
- “93 Million Miles” by Jason Mraz
- “Everything” by Matthew John
- “Go On” by Jack Johnson
- “She’s Got a Way” by Billy Joel
- “House of Gold” by 21 Pilots
- “Old Pine” by Ben Howard
- “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
- “Sweet Pea” by Amos Lee
- “Your Song” by Elton John
- “Wildflowers” by Tom Petty
R&B Mother-Son Dance Songs
Incorporating an R&B song into the mother-son dance at a wedding is a soul-stirring choice that intertwines rhythm, blues, and heartfelt emotion into a moment that transcends the ordinary. R&B, with its smooth melodies and deep, emotive lyrics, captures the complexity and beauty of relationships, making it an exquisite backdrop for a dance that symbolizes the enduring bond between a mother and her son.
- “You are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
- “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men
- “Mama Hold My Hand” by Aloe Blacc
- “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
- “Hero” by Mariah Carey
- “I Got You” by Ciara
- “River,” by Leon Bridges
- “I’ll Be There” by Mac Miller ft. Phonte
- “Just the Two of Us” by Will Smith
- “Wind Beneath My Wings” Gerald Levert and Eddie Levert
Country Mother-Son Dance Songs
Choosing a country song for the mother-son dance at a wedding weaves a tapestry of heartfelt emotion and storytelling that beautifully complements the rustic charm and warmth of such a significant moment. At Green Wedding Shoes, we treasure how country music, with its soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, has the unique ability to capture the essence of life’s journey, making it a perfect backdrop for celebrating the bond between a mother and her son. The genre’s rich narratives often speak to themes of love, gratitude, and the passing of time, mirroring the deep connection and shared history in this dance.
A country song can transform the dance floor into a space of shared stories and emotions, allowing the couple, along with their guests, to step into a world where every lyric resonates with the love and legacy of family. It’s a choice that not only sets the tone for a tender, memorable moment but also honors the roots and values that have shaped their lives.
- “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry
- “Like My Mother Does” by Lauren Alaina
- “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
- “Mama Said” by Lukas Graham
- “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack
- “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood
- “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
- “Sweet Child of Mine” by Sheryl Crow
- “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw
- “He Gets That From Me” by Reba McEntire
- “Mother” by Sugarland
- “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift
- “Landslide” by The Chicks
- “Don’t Blink” by Kenny Chesney
- “Never Alone” by Lady A and Jim Brickman
- “Then They Do” by Trace Adkins
- “Thought You Should Know” by Morgan Wallen
- “Without You” by Luke Combs
If you prefer to listen to songs (that’s our favorite way to choose songs!), take a listen to all the best Mother of the Groom dance songs at the Spotify list below…
Need More Wedding Song Inspo?
Crafting the perfect playlist for your wedding day is akin to painting a masterpiece where each stroke of music adds color, emotion, and depth to your celebration. These are the songs that you’ll listen to again and again over the years to reminisce on that amazing “just married” feeling — and we’re here to help you choose the right tracks!
The processional song guides you down the aisle in a moment of pure magic. The reception needs a dynamic mix, from the romantic first dance songs to upbeat tracks that invite everyone onto the dance floor, celebrating joy and unity. And let’s not forget the importance of the best father-daughter dance songs as well as a sweet song to play while you cut the cake!
In choosing your music, you’re not just selecting songs; you’re weaving a tapestry of memories that will echo in the hearts of all who share in your day. What song did you choose for the Mother-Son dance? We’d love to hear in the comments below!