All moms want to relate to their kids. They want to understand the world in which their children occupy—what drives them, what influences them, what moves them. And if that something is music, the best you can do is create a playlist for mom that helps her connect to her children's generation. It's one thing to make her a playlist of cliched mom-adjacent classics, but it's far more useful to introduce her to what's going on in music right now. So, here's a modern Mother's Day playlist to give mom on her special day. A little music education is an amazing gift. And if she's already heard all of these, you can bond over how cool she is.
Lucy Dacus — "My Mother & I"
Because once you play this, mom will be a Lucy Dacus fan.
The Dead Weather - "Treat Me Like Your Mother"
Because if everyone treated everyone else like their mother, the world would be a better place.
Florence + The Machine — "Mother"
Because "I belong to the ground now."
Courtney Barnett - "I'm Not Your Mother, I'm Not Your Bitch"
Because mom deserves a little cathartic release in the form of Courtney Barnett guitar solos.
Missy Elliott - "Mommy"
Because the definition of "mommy" isn't a chick with kids. "Mommy" means the boss.
Kendrick Lamar – "Momma"
Because it's never a bad time to introduce Mom to Kendrick Lamar.
Bhad Bhabie – "Mama Don't Worry (Still Ain't Dirty)"
Because Mom probably watches Dr. Phil, but needs to know that the Cash Me Outside girl has a music career that's not horrible.
Soccer Mommy – "Wildflowers"
Because if some of these other songs were a little difficult, Mom will absolutely think this song is the sweetest.
Childish Gambino – "Me and Your Mama"
Because she might remember Donald Glover from Community or the Emmys or Golden Globes, but now's the time to introduce her to his music (then get her to watch Atlanta).
Frank Ocean – "Moon River"
Because Mom has definitely heard "Moon River"—but never like this.
Kacey Musgraves – "Mother"
Because Mom always deserves to know how much you miss her.
Drake – "God's Plan"
Because you only love your bed and your mom.
Kali Uchis – "In My Dreams"
Because Mama's never on coke in your dreams (and hopefully IRL).
Janelle Monáe – "Django Jane"
Because Mom gave you life, she gave you birth.
Prince – "Nothing Compares 2 U"
Because Prince is always the greatest gift of all.
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com.
* Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.
