It’s the season to reflect on gratitude – but even at Thanksgiving, putting words to how we feel can be a challenge. This year, when it’s your turn to share what you’re thankful for, why not turn up a classic tune to help you find those elusive words? Here are six timeless songs on gratitude that will do all the talking for you.
Kind and Generous by Natalie Merchant
Among the few songs in music history to immortalize a chorus with the phrase “thank you” right in it, Natalie Merchant’s Kind and Generous is the perfect place to start our list. Merchant delivers several beautiful lines in the verses, where she lists a range of positive attributes displayed by the object of her song: “For your kindness, I’m in debt to you \ For your selflessness, my admiration.” This strikingly positive and sweetly consistent tune offers a simple sentiment of gratitude – and it’s catchy too!
Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) by Sly & The Family Stone
When you find a place that feels like home, and people who love you for who you are, that’s reason to celebrate. For a funky thank-you tune, you won’t find anything better than Sly & The Family Stone’s Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). It’s a song that reminds us – in very groovy terms – to enjoy life and each other: “Dance to the music \ All night long \ Everyday people \ Sing a simple song.”
Thank You by Dido
If reflecting on thankfulness naturally turns your thoughts to that one person in your life, jamming to Dido’s big hit Thank You will feel all too right. Sure, it might be a little sentimental for some, but we can all appreciate the heartfelt message that another person’s presence in our life – whether through a picture on the wall, a phone call, or a visit – makes our days brighter.
Thank You for Being a Friend by Andrew Gold
Not only does Andrew Gold’s Thank You for Being a Friend feature almost impossibly positive and uplifting lyrics, but it delivers them with energetic ‘70s flavor. Who wouldn’t want to hear praises like “Your heart is true / You’re a pal and a confidante,” or “My hat is off / Won’t you stand up and take a bow?” It’ll be smiles all around when you break out this classic track that oozes thankfulness.
Thank God I Found You by Mariah Carey, Joe & 98 Degrees
For those of us with a special someone, there’s no way we can overstate how thankful we are to have them – and that means even an over-the-top pop classic like Thank God I Found You is in play. You can slow dance together to Mariah’s powerful vocals and do your best Nick Lachey impressions while staring into each other’s eyes. It’s not cheesy if there’s no one else there to say so!
In My Life by The Beatles
If you’re more of an understated type, The Beatles’ In My Life could be the perfect tune to channel your gratitude. Sweet in sentiment and always pleasant to listen to, this tune from their 1965 album Rubber Soul offers broader reflections on thankfulness and then brings it home: “In my life / I love you more.” It’s the perfect song to enjoy with the person who’s been by your side the longest.
However you say it, make sure to share your gratitude with the people you love this year! For more articles on holiday fun and entertainment, check out the Oceanside Lantana blog.