A Mother's Day Playlist: Stories behind the songs

This curated playlist delves into the stories and sentiments behind each track

This Mother's Day, celebrate the multifaceted essence of motherhood with a curated playlist that delves into the stories and sentiments behind each track. From heartfelt tributes to satirical takes, these songs offer a rich tapestry of maternal themes.

1. "Fiddler’s Green" – The Tragically Hip

   Gord Downie wrote this poignant ballad in memory of his nephew, Charles, who died at three and a half years old from a heart condition. The song opens with the line, "September seventeen / For a girl I know it's Mother's Day," referencing Charles's birthday and honoring his mother, Charlyn. The title refers to a mythical sailor's afterlife, offering solace in the idea that Charles wouldn't journey alone.

2. "Mother’s Little Helper" – The Rolling Stones

   A satirical take on the 1960s trend of prescribing tranquilizers to housewives, this song highlights the societal pressures faced by women and their coping mechanisms.

3. "Mama Told Me Not to Come" – Three Dog Night

   Originally penned by Randy Newman, this track humorously portrays a young man's overwhelming experience at a wild party, echoing his mother's warnings.

4. "Little Green" – Joni Mitchell

   An intimate reflection on Mitchell's decision to place her daughter for adoption, capturing the emotional complexity of that choice.

5. "Squeeze Box" – The Who

   A playful tune filled with double entendres, showcasing the band's cheeky side and penchant for innuendo-laden lyrics.

6. "Mother and Child Reunion" – Paul Simon

   Inspired by a chicken-and-egg dish named "Mother and Child Reunion," the song delves into themes of loss and longing, reflecting Simon's contemplation of mortality.

7. "Mama, I’m Coming Home" – Ozzy Osbourne

   A heartfelt ballad co-written with Lemmy Kilmister and Zakk Wylde, expressing Osbourne's yearning for home and reconciliation.

8. "Is Your Mama Gonna Miss You?" – Bryan Adams

   A track exploring the uncertainties of young love and the apprehensions of meeting a partner's family.

9. "Lady Madonna" – The Beatles

   Paul McCartney's tribute to hardworking mothers, inspired by images of motherhood and resilience.

10. "Shop Around" – The Miracles

    A mother advises her son to be discerning in love, emphasizing the importance of making wise choices in relationships.

11. "Harper Valley PTA" – Jeannie C. Riley

    A narrative about a mother confronting societal hypocrisy, challenging the judgments of her community.

12. "This Woman’s Work" – Kate Bush

   Written for the John Hughes film She’s Having a Baby, this haunting ballad is sung from a man’s point of view as he watches his partner in childbirth. Kate Bush’s soaring vocals underscore the pain, strength, and sacrifice of women becoming mothers.

13. "Sylvia’s Mother" – Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show

    A tale of unrequited love and the pain of letting go, as a man pleads with his former lover's mother for a final goodbye.

14. "Night Comes On" – Leonard Cohen

    A contemplative piece reflecting on life's transitions and the enduring bond between mother and son.

15. "Surrender" – Cheap Trick

    A song highlighting generational differences and the realization that parents were once rebellious youths themselves.

16. "Mother, Mother" – Tracy Bonham

    An intense expression of emotional turmoil and the longing for maternal comfort during times of distress.

17. "Tie Your Mother Down" – Queen

    A hard-rock anthem urging independence from parental constraints in the pursuit of love.

18. "In the Backseat" – Arcade Fire

    A melancholic reflection on loss and the desire to return to the safety of childhood, symbolized by the backseat of a car.

19. "Stacy’s Mom" – Fountains of Wayne

    A humorous take on adolescent infatuation, highlighting the complexities of teenage emotions.

20. "You Can’t Hurry Love" – The Supremes

    A mother's wisdom on patience in love, reminding her daughter that true affection takes time.

21. "Guardian" – Alanis Morissette

    A vow of protection and unconditional love, embodying the essence of maternal guardianship.

22. "Mother-in-Law" – Ernie K-Doe

    A lighthearted portrayal of the stereotypical challenges faced in mother-in-law relationships.

This playlist offers a diverse exploration of motherhood's many facets, providing both heartfelt tributes and satirical insights. Whether you're celebrating with family or reflecting on maternal influences, these songs serve as a resonant soundtrack for the day.

Sources:

Tony Clement’s Rockin’ Shindig

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