When one of my kids feels grumpy or sad and can’t seem to shake it even after hugs and talking through what happened, I bust out one simple but powerful parenting move that helps them get back to happy: music.

Research shows that music can quickly boost your mood, even more so if you want to improve your mood. Plus, listening to music with your child creates healthy bonds and builds positive memories.

But Here’s the Problem

When you search for “funny songs for kids” or “silly songs for kids,” you’ll find either saccharine-sweet kids’ music or the same ol’ boring nursery songs—or a mix of both. And while I don’t mind hearing “On Top of Spaghetti” or “Ripped Pants” by Spongebob once in a while, those aren’t exactly songs I want in my ears every single day, and certainly not multiple times a day.

The truth is if you want a go-to playlist of funny songs for kids, you don’t need to resort to the kind of children’s music that sets your teeth on edge.

In fact, if you pick music you actually enjoy too, you’ll get a mood boost as well. And goodness knows in between the daily parenting slog of tantrums and sibling scuffles and power struggles, we could all use a pick-me-up of our own.

30 Funny Songs for Kids That Make Parents Giggle, Too

As a mom of four, over the years I’ve curated a handful of go-to playlists to meet the needs of different situations, from love songs for kids to kids’ dance music. But my favorite playlist for cheering up one of my kids is a collection of the best funny songs for kids.

Here’s why: If you can get your child to giggle, that stimulates endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals that reduce stress and put you in a better mood. In other words, funny music can help your child feel better lickety-split.

Below, you’ll find a list of the absolute best songs that will get your child laughing and smiling in no time. Not only that, when you listen to these funny kids’ songs together, you’ll strengthen your bond with your child. And a stronger connection pays off in the form of greater cooperation, fewer power struggles, and the kind of loving parent-child relationship that will last into the teenage years and beyond.

To be clear, I’ve double- and triple-checked the lyrics to make sure they are 100 percent kid-friendly. Feel free to use this list to create your own playlist now so that the next time your child needs a mood boost (or you do!), you’re ready to go with some great funny songs for kids.

Related: 20 Best Kids’ Dance Songs That Parents Actually Love, Too

1. Family by Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors

This upbeat song is a sweet but funny ode to family:

You don’t choose em, you can’t lose em
We all have a song to sing
Some are crazy, some are amazing
All got a little bit of everything

2. All Ways by Elliott Park

This is probably my favorite of all the funny songs for kids in this list! Starting when my youngest was two years old, he loved the “stinky feet” line. Giggles guaranteed, every time!

Quick heads up: If you live in an area where this word might be an issue, beware that this song mentions a “fanny pack” near the end. This is the American name for what’s referred to as a “bum bag” in some other countries.

3. Everybody Gets a Kitten by Jeremy Messersmith

This song comes from an album titled “11 Obscenely Optimistic Songs for Ukelele,” and it’s an absolute delight.

Gotta say the future’s awesome
Everything is a-okay
All the work is done by robots
Everyday is Saturday
Future people all have jet-packs
Fly around in flying cars
There’s so much I could tell you
But the coolest part by far…

4. So Long by Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward

This is one of the few songs in this playlist that comes from a kids’ movie, but you won’t care because it’s so easy to listen to. If you enjoy this song, be sure to check out the rest of the music from the 2011 Winnie the Pooh movie.

You test my nerves it makes me stronger,
So can you bother me a little bit longer?

5. Alphabutt by Kimya Dawson

What playlist of funny kids’ songs would be complete without a little potty humor?

A is for apple
B is for butt
C is for cat butt
D is for doo doo
E is for elephant doo doo

6. The Song of LIFE by Scribblemonster

Kids who’ve played The Game of LIFE will giggle at these lyrics:

Every time that I play LIFE
I choose you to be my wife
Ride around in a plastic car
Tiny pegs are all we are

7. Little Bitta You by Andrew and Polly

This is a children’s song, but it’s adorable and not grating. And when you and your child try singing along to “Lottle lottle little lottle, lottle lottle loo,” you’ll both crack up.

8. The Puppy Song by Harry Nilsson

You might recognize this song from the soundtrack of You’ve Got Mail, and it just so happens to be a crowd-pleaser with kids.

If only I could have a puppy
I’d call myself so very lucky
Just to have some company
To share a cup of tea with me

9. Busy Doing Nothing by Richard M. Sherman

This song from the movie Christopher Robin is adorably silly:

I’m busy, busy, busy doin’ nothin’
Doin’ nothin’, that’s the life for me
For when I’m doin’ nothin’, I’m busy doin’ somethin’
Somethin’ that suits me to a tee

10. Simple Song by Elliott Park

The funny mental pictures in these lyrics are sure to make your child smile:

It begins as just a flutter deep in you
As it grows, you feel some yellow in your blue
You can run but you can’t hide
When a smile begins to rise
Like the Terminator wearing big red shoes

11. Brothers and Sisters by Vered

Kids who have siblings love this song because it makes them feel known, heard, and understood—while also making them laugh.

Brothers and sisters can make you laugh
And sometimes make you cry
Sometimes they tickle you til it hurts
And sometimes they even lie
And sometimes they kick you and hit you and bite you and squeeze you with all of their might

12. Bathtime in Clerkenwell by The Real Tuesday Weld

This one’s perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Pure nonsensical silliness! Skip this for tweens and teens, but younger kids love it:

Wale-den-de-bobo-den-di-bili-dan-lo-no
Wale-den-de-bobo-den-di-bili-dan-lo-no
Wale-den-de-bobo-den-di-bili-dan-lo-no
Wale-den-de-bobo-den-di-bili-dan-lo-no

13. Birdhouse in Your Soul by They Might Be Giants

You could argue that several TMBG songs belong on a playlist of funny songs for kids, but this one’s our absolute favorite. Kids especially love the riddle of trying to figure out the main character of this song. (A nightlight!)

I have a secret to tell
From my electrical well
It’s a simple message
And I’m leaving out the whistles and bells
So the room must listen to me
Filibuster vigilantly
My name is blue canary, one note spelled l-i-t-e

14. Your Personal Penguin by Davy Jones

These lyrics come from the silly children’s book Your Personal Penguin, and kids love the idea of having their own personal penguin.

I want to be your personal penguin
I want to walk right by your side
I want to be your personal penguin
I want to travel with you far and wide

15. Little Potato by Metamora

Because of this goofy song comparing your child to a potato (yes, you read that right), I can walk up to any one of my kids, say, “You’re my little potato,” and get an immediate giggle.

They must have grown you wild,
You make a grown man a child,
I’ll go and play in the mud
To be with you, my spud.
When you came out looking red as a beet,
You had wrinkles on the bottoms of your feet.

16. Oh My Goodness, Look at This Mess by Sweet Honey in the Rock

This is our family’s official clean-up song:

Oh my goodness, look at this mess!
I’m the one who made it, I do confess.
Oh my goodness, look at this mess!
I think I’ve got to clean it up.
…
Why are these crumbs all over the floor?
My mama asks when she comes in the door.
Is it from the cookies I gave you to eat
When you asked me for a treat?

17. Jungle Gym by Jack Johnson, G. Love, and Special Sauce

The soundtrack of Curious George is chock full of gems, including this one. Kids love this song for the mental image it gives them of being a monkey swinging through the city like it’s a jungle gym.

Trolley cars and buses too
All the big kids going to school
I’m going to get a treat from the ice cream man
Catch me catch me if you can

18. I Want It Now by Julie Dawn Cole

If you’ve seen the original Willy Wonka movie, you’ll recognize this over-the-top tune from Veruca Salt. This song gives kids a playful way to reflect on less charitable impulses, plus it’s great fun to blast at top volume!

I want the world
I want the whole world
I want to lock it
All up in my pocket
It’s my bar of chocolate
Give it to me now

19. Piggy by Jenna Nicholls

This is a simple silly song about a piggy bank:

No one’s gonna take my piggy away
It’s just you and me, honey
Someday I’m gonna spend all that money
On me, just me

20. Anyone Else But You by The Moldy Peaches

The potty humor at the end gets kids every time!

Squinched up your face and did a dance
Shook a little turd out of the bottom of your pants
I don’t see what anyone can see, in anyone else
But you

21. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

This isn’t a laugh-out-loud kind of song, but the mental images will put a smile on your face. Because of this sweet little song, whenever one of our kids wakes up before my husband and me and comes to rouse us, they always say: “I just wanted to see you looking at me.”

Oh, I like you so very much
So much in fact, I gotta wake you up
It’s not that I have words to speak
I just wanna see you looking at me

22. Octopus’s Garden by The Beatles

This classic will tap into your child’s imagination, and the idea of an octopus’s garden will delight them:

I’d like to be
Under the sea
In an octopus’s garden
In the shade

23. Crayola Doesn’t Make a Color for Your Eyes by Kristin Andreassen

This is a sweet but silly song that kids can relate to—not being able to find the perfect color crayon for what you want to do.

I went to see the doctor, I’d come down with the blues
She said that “I can’t cure you, but here’s something you could do
Take out a piece of paper and go sit down for a while
And draw a pretty picture of something that makes you smile”
Well, I know what makes me happy, I didn’t have to think for long
But when I tried to draw it, it always came out wrong
I had a box of 12, 48, and 64
But nowhere could I find that one shade I was looking for

24. Love You by The Free Design

Listen to this catchy song for a dose of pure silliness:

Roll like a circus clown, put away your circus frown
Ride on a roller coaster upside down
Waltzing Matilda, Carey loves a kinkatchoo
Joey catch a kangaroo, hug you

25. Gaston by Josh Gad and Luke Evans

I dare you not to giggle at this rendition from the live-action Beauty and the Beast movie.

No one hits like Gaston
Matches wits like Gaston
In a spitting match nobody spits like Gaston
I’m especially good at expectorating
(Ten points for Gaston!)

26. Grilled Cheese by Peach Face

My kids can’t get enough of this song, and they giggle every time.

One heads up: If you live in an area where this word might be an issue, you should know that this song mentions a “fanny pack.” This is the American name for what’s referred to as a “bum bag” in some other countries.

Monday
I fell in love with a grilled cheese
Oh, would you bring it to me pretty please
It’s not the same at home

27. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious by Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke

This classic song from Mary Poppins delights kids and adults.

Oh, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
Even though the sound of it
Is something quite atrocious
If you say it loud enough
You’ll always sound precocious

28. Everything is Awesome by Tegan and Sara & the Lonely Island

This song from The Lego Movie is ridiculously over-the-top and a fun way to get your sillies out. If your playlist of funny songs for kids doubles as a dance party playlist, this song is a must!

I feel more awesome than an awesome possum
Dip my body in chocolate frosting
Three years later, wash off the frosting
Smelling like a blossom, everything is awesome

29. The Muffin Song by Sean Bertram and Amanda MacDonald

This song is sweet, simple, and silly:

I’m your muffin man
You’re my muffin girl
Let’s get together we can see the muffin world
In a car, in a plane, we can muffin every day
Always forever in our little muffin tray

30. I Forgot That You Existed by Taylor Swift

When someone has been mean to your child, the idea of the ultimate revenge will get them smiling again:

How many days did I spend
Thinkin’ ’bout how you did me wrong, wrong, wrong?
Lived in the shade you were throwin’
‘Til all of my sunshine was gone, gone, gone…
But then something happened one magical night

I forgot that you existed

Get the Spotify Playlist: Funny Songs for Kids

If you use Spotify, head over to this Spotify playlist and click the heart button to add these silly kids’ songs to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new funny songs for kids, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

For more fun songs to share with your child, check out 20 Best Kids’ Dance Songs That Parents Actually Love, Too.

Your Turn

What are your favorite funny songs for kids? Share in a comment below!

The post 30 Funny Songs for Kids That Make Parents Giggle, Too appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

In my family, we show love for each other in the typical ways you might expect—hugs, I love you‘s, and playing our favorite games together.

But one of our go-to ways to communicate love might be a little non-standard: song lyrics.

When one of my kids feels sad or we need to repair our connection after a tough moment, I’ll play one of our favorite love songs for kids. Then depending on whether it’s a mellow or an upbeat song, we’ll cuddle up on the couch or have an impromptu dance party. Or sometimes while they’re busy making art or building with LEGOs, I queue up a special song and say, “Hey, listen to this. It makes me think of you.”

And it works, every time. Because research shows that listening to music together creates healthy bonds and builds positive memories.

But Here’s the Problem With Love Songs for Kids

Most love songs aren’t all that kid-friendly. Often, love song lyrics are clearly about the romantic love of a couple. And I’m guessing playing “When a Man Loves a Woman” for your kid probably isn’t the effect you’re going for.

Plus, many love songs’ lyrics are flat-out not appropriate for kids.

Obviously, you would never want to play an overtly risqué love song for your child, but a lot of love songs have at least a line or two that could create an uncomfortable moment when you play them for your child and you’re both paying close attention to the lyrics.

But here’s the real kicker when it comes to love songs for kids: The songs that are specifically made for kids tend to be so saccharine you can’t help but cringe, and they often sound like they could be the theme song to an obnoxious kids’ TV show. Swinging wildly to the other end of the spectrum, the songs written about a parent’s love for a child are typically so slow they could put you right to sleep.

The best love songs for kids are the ones you and your child will actually want to listen to together.

Related: 17 Best Kids’ Dance Songs That Parents Actually Love, Too

The Best Love Songs for Kids That Will Make Your Child Smile

Because love songs are one of my family’s favorite ways to connect and show our love for each other, I’ve been curating a huge playlist of love songs for kids over the years.

Below, I’m sharing the absolute best love songs for kids so that you can share them with your own child. I’ve double- and triple-checked the lyrics to make sure they are 100 percent kid-friendly. Not only that, many of these are specifically parent-to-child songs about unconditional love for a child.

Go ahead and create a playlist now so that the next time you experience a moment of disconnection with your child or you feel overwhelmed with your love for them, you’re ready to go with the perfect love songs for kids.

Whether you listen to these kid-friendly love songs together while you cuddle or you break out into an impromptu dance party, your child will feel secure in your love for them. And that stronger connection will pay off in the form of greater cooperation, fewer power struggles, and the kind of loving parent-child relationship that will last into the teenage years and beyond.

1. All Ways by Elliott Park

This is probably my favorite of all the love songs for children in this list. Starting when my youngest was two years old, he loved the “stinky feet” line. Giggles guaranteed, every time!

If you like this song, be sure to give the rest of the Just Be album a listen because it’s kid-friendly and fun for parents, too.

Quick heads up: If you live in an area where this word might be an issue, beware that this song mentions a “fanny pack” near the end. This is the American name for what’s referred to as a “bum bag” in some other countries.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. Mama’s Sunshine, Daddy’s Rain by Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors

These lyrics are perfection. Here’s a taste for you:

All day long, right or wrong, you question everything.
Why the grass is green, can I stay up late, and why do the bluebirds sing?

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. I Care by Tom T. Hall

This song never gets old. Every time it comes on, I can’t help but smile! And because it’s full of warmth, we love using this one as a “goodnight” song before sending our kids off to bed.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. The Lotto by Ingrid Michaelson with AJR

The lyrics of this song aren’t specifically about a parent’s unconditional love for a child, but the message translates 100 percent: all we need is each other.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. The Best Day by Taylor Swift

This song is told from the perspective of a child to their mother, and it has all the feels.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. Brand New Day by Lindsey Ray with Tim Myers

Queue up this one when you need a reset button or when you want to start the day off right.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. All Smiles by Jess Penner

Full of childlike imagery, this happy song is sure to make you smile.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. For My Daughter by Kane Brown

Kane Brown wrote this song for his little girl, and the lyrics about that special bond between a parent and child are powerful. But even though it’s from a dad to a daughter, just one line at the end mentions “baby girl,” so I still dance to this one with my son!

Someone to play catch with, out in the backyard
To pick up the pieces of your first broken heart
Someone to say slow down when you turn sixteen

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. You’ve Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman

You might recognize this one from the Toy Story soundtrack, but the lyrics are perfect for a parent to a child, too:

You got troubles, I’ve got ’em too
There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you
We stick together and see it through
‘Cause you’ve got a friend in me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. Count on Me by Bruno Mars

How sweet are these lyrics?

If you tossin’ and you’re turnin’ and you just can’t fall asleep
I’ll sing a song beside you
And if you ever forget how much you really mean to me
Every day I will remind you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Wild + Free by Andrew Simple

This song perfectly captures the adventurous spirit of childhood.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. You’re a Part of Me by Jillian Edwards with Zach Berkman

When one of my kids is struggling with separation anxiety or nighttime fears, I often repeat these lyrics to help calm them and remind them that we’re always connected, even when we’re apart: You’re a part of me.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Let’s Go by Handsome and Gretyl

The imagery of this song always gets my kids “flying” around the room:

Let’s fly
Go and get your wings on, run until we lift off
Oh we’ll fly
Everyone needs a little adventure in their lives

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Anywhere I Go by Rebecca Roubion

Like “You’re a Part of Me” above, this song will remind your child of the powerful connection you have, even when you’re apart.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

15. A Friend Like You by Andy Grammer

This song is about two friends, but the lyrics are fun for a parent to a child, too:

Mac and cheese, PB and jelly
Some things are better together, and that’s you and me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

16. My Little Love by The Weepies with Deb Talan and Steve Tannen

This one’s a little mellower than some others on this list, but it still has enough of a beat that it won’t put you to sleep!

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

17. Life’s What You Make It by Graham Colton

This is one of those love songs for kids that also shares a powerful life lesson.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

18. Couldn’t Ask for a Better Friend by Michael Logen

This is something I often tell my kids, and I love having a song to reinforce it, too:

Any time you call
Anything you need
You know you can always count on me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

19. Never Grow Up by Taylor Swift

This song perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of parenthood and watching your child grow up. I dare you not to cry as you listen to this one!

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

20. Family by Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors

When this song comes on, my whole family starts bopping along. So much fun!

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Bonus: How to Reconnect After a Tough Moment With Your Child

Research shows that in happy relationships, you need a ratio of five positive interactions to every one negative interaction. This is called the Magic 5:1 Ratio.

In other words, after a negative interaction with your child, you need to reconnect through a positive moment or two so you can close the distance between you and your child. Because if you don’t close that gap and your child feels a lack of connection, that will lead to more unnecessary power struggles and less cooperation from your child when you ask them to do something.

But unfortunately, when your brain is flooded with stress hormones in the moment, it’s incredibly difficult to think of something fun and sweet to do with your child so you can reconnect.

Which is why I created these Family Connection Cards, based on the science of what actually works when you need to reconnect. These cards remove the mental burden of figuring out how to reconnect with your child so you can just focus on nurturing your bond with your child. At any point during your day, you can pick a card to get a quick and simple idea for connecting.

And in just 10 minutes a day, these powerful cards will make your child feel absolutely loved and stop the power struggles caused by disconnection.

Get the Spotify Playlist

If you use Spotify, head over to this Spotify playlist and click the heart button to add the list of songs to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new love songs for kids, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

For love songs to share with your partner, check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

Your Turn

What are your favorite love songs for kids? Share in a comment below!

The post The Best 20 Love Songs for Kids: Adored by Parents and Kids appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

Last night, my husband made dinner while I followed behind our one-year-old tornado, trying to minimize the destruction – or at least contain it to the kitchen.

Our baby’s favorite pastime lately is pulling the nice serving platters out of their bottom cabinet and letting them clang to the floor. All other breakable items have been relocated to other cabinets out of reach, but this cabinet is the only one that will fit the huge platters.

We probably should just install a lock on the cabinet, but that would require planning ahead, which I can’t seem to manage now that we’re three kids into this crazy life.

And so every time she started making her way to that cabinet last night, I opened another cabinet to distract her.

“Charlie! Spatulas!”
“Hey, want a frying pan?”
“A whisk! Look, a whisk!”

Then while Ty cooked and I chased, we talked budget. How we can do better, what we can cut out, how to finish paying off the $25,000 hospital bill from when our toddler swallowed a dime in January.

You know, fun stuff. Our voices were tight, our sentences short.

And Then the Tornado Hit

Somewhere along the way, I got caught up in the conversation and lost track of Charlie.

I glanced around. She was near the forbidden cabinet but thankfully just quietly playing with something on the floor. Whew.

“Do you think we should…”

I trailed off because my eyes had finally focused on what she was quietly playing with. And it was coming from her diaper.

I rushed over and grabbed both her hands to keep her from touching anything, but then I didn’t have a way to resolve the root issue of what was spilling out of her diaper.

“Uh, Ty?”

He looked over to where I was frozen, holding our baby’s arms out to each side – and we locked eyes.

The surprise on his face pushed me over the edge, and the fear on mine must have done it for Ty. We laughed.

While Ty ran to grab a bag of wipes, I laughed so hard that Charlie’s hands jiggled up and down, flinging poo everywhere. He went to work wiping up her hands, the mess that had breached the diaper border, and the flinged poo particles.

The whole time, we couldn’t stop giggling. And it was the best thing that happened all night.

Related: 7 Quick Ways to Connect With Your Partner

Don’t Get Me Wrong

I’m not into epic diaper blowouts. But our fit of giggles took a tense situation for any marriage – discussing tight finances – and defused it completely.

After we got Charlie cleaned up and picked the conversation back up again, our tone was playful and light. A world of difference from the first installment of our conversation.

Everyone knows humor can be an antidote to tension, but here’s what you may not know.

Research shows the happiest couples know how to handle conflict in a gentle way, and one of the number one techniques for doing that is with humor.

Related: 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs

20 Funny Love Songs for the Days You Need to Reconnect

Next time, I won’t wait for a diaper blowout to jolt us out of a tense conversation. I made this playlist of funny love songs for the days when my husband and I need to hit the pause button and reconnect.

But there’s one thing you should know about these love songs – they’re funny, even silly, but not disgustingly sappy. Because when you need to lighten the mood, gag-worthy love songs won’t do the trick.

Forget “My Heart Will Go On” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight?” and get this list of funny romantic songs queued up and ready to go for whenever you need to share a smile with your partner.

As with all my playlists, you’ll find snippets of the love songs lyrics below each song title. Enjoy!

Get yours now: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

And Don’t Forget Special Occasions

This love songs playlist makes the perfect DIY gift for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just because. Just follow my step-by-step tutorial for how to make a modern-day mixtape.

Or if you’re planning a wedding, sprinkle a few of these silly love songs into the playlist for the wedding reception. Incorporating your sense of humor will give your guests a good laugh on the dance floor! I’ve even heard from a few couples who’ve included these songs in their ceremony, walked down the aisle to one of them, or used one as their first dance song.

1. Anyone Else But You by The Moldy Peaches

This silly love song has a line at the end that’ll catch you off guard and have you giggling like a teenager.

Here is the church and here is the steeple
We sure are cute for two ugly people
I don’t see what anyone can see
In anyone else but you

Listen: Apple Music^† | Amazon Music

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

2. The Idea Of Growing Old by The Features

This is one of my all-time favorite love songs. I dare you not to smile!

I can make you angry, you can make me a smile
We can make oragami with the kids for a while
You turn me on to the idea of growing old

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. In Spite of Ourselves by Iris DeMent and John Prine

If country is your jam, you’ll love this quirky duet between two people who don’t get along but love each other anyway.

She thinks all my jokes are corny
Convict movies make her horny
She likes ketchup on her scrambled eggs
Swears like a sailor when shaves her legs
She takes a lickin’
And keeps on tickin’
I’m never gonna let her go.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

Oh, I like you so very much
So much, in fact I gotta wake you up
It’s not that I have words to speak
I just wanna see you looking at me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. The Way I Am by Ingrid Michaelson

I’d buy you Rogaine
When you start losing all your hair
Sew on patches to all you tear
‘Cause I love you more than
I could ever promise

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. I’m Not Sorry by Meiko

I hope it won’t scare you away
I wanna have your kids someday
They’d all have dimples on their face like you
And when you’re old or bald or grey
I’m gonna love your wrinkly face
Nobody else could love you like I do

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. Sweeter Than This by Katie Herzig

I’ll feed you ramen and you’ll braid my hair
Anything goes when you don’t even care,
When you’re this far in love
If it gets any sweeter than this,
I don’t wanna know

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Sweet Pea by Amos Lee

Sweet pea
What’s all of this about?
Don’t get your way all you do is fuss and pout
You’re the only reason I keep on coming home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. Five Years Time by Noah And the Whale

Oh well in five years time we could be walking round a zoo
With the sun shining down over me and you
And there’ll be love in the bodies of the elephants too
And I’ll put my hands over your eyes, but you’ll peep through

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. Home by Edward Sharpe And the Magnetic Zeros

Alabama, Arkansas,
I do love my Ma and Pa
Not the way that I do love you
Well, holy moly me oh my
You’re the apple of my eye
Girl, I’ve never loved one like you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Here is a Heart by Jenny Owen Youngs

Here is a heart
I made it for you so take it
Battered and braised
Grilled and sautéed
Just how you like it

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. Mango by Catey Shaw

Oh sweet mango baby
won’t you be mine?
I know you don’t like labels
but let me buy you some wine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Darlin’ by Dave Barnes

Darlin’ we got it made
Your kids are at your mama’s and baby all the bills are paid
How ’bout a kiss, honey I’ll meet you half way

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Loser by Julian Moon

Full disclosure: One curse word in this one!

There’s a little bit of loser in us
Just two weirdos who fell in love
I guess we’re made from the same weird stuff
Being a loser with you doesn’t suck

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

15. Vintage by High Dive Heart

You’re timeless like an old stack of vinyl
Hundred-year-old bottle of wine-o
Love the classics but what do I know?
You’re the pair of Chucks I never wanna take off
The beat the DJ can’t help but drop
Your Mona Lisa makes my heart stop

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

16. I Don’t Know by Lisa Hannigan

I don’t know if you can dance
If the thought ever occurred to you
If you eat what you’ve been given or you push it around your plate
I’d like to cook for you all the same
I would want to
I am game

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

17. Be Glad I Love You (Go to Bed) by Bug Hunter

You love my quirks, my quirks
The dopey way I flirt
You’re even kind and warm when I am getting on your nerves
You love my quirks, my quirks
I’m certain you deserve
A handsome hunk, but now you’re stuck with this annoying nerd

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

18. Bubble of My Gum by DURRY

You’re the bee to my honeycomb
The bubble of my gum
You’re a Saturday morning
The cocoa on my puffs

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

19. Bad Ideas by Tessa Violet

I hope that you don’t think I’m rude
But I wanna make out with you
And I’m a little awkward, sure
But I could touch my face to yours, oh

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

20. I Like to Be With Me When I’m With You by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors

If I could be like Albert Einstein
I’d rather just be dumb and be with you
If I could sing like Frank Sinatra
I would rather sit and talk to you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Get the Spotify Playlist

If you use Spotify, head over to this Funny Love Songs playlist and click the heart button to add it to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new silly love songs, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

Check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

Get your copy now: 150 Conversation Starters for Couples That Will Make You Feel Closer Than Ever

Your Turn

What are your favorite funny love songs? Share in a comment below!

The post 20 Funny Love Songs Guaranteed to Make You Smile appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

It was fifth grade. The school bus had just dropped me off, along with all the other kids who lived in the cluster of apartment complexes near mine.

As a painfully shy kid, I hadn’t made any friends who lived nearby. No one to sit next to on the bus. No one to walk home with, chattering about the day. But I didn’t mind because I could get lost in my thoughts. And if I hurried, I might catch The Addams Family.

This day was like every other day, mostly. Stepped off the bus. Kept my head down. Started towards the apartment in silence.

Except that a group of sixth-grade boys got off the bus right behind me. Usually they sat at the back of the bus and took their time getting off, so I was long gone by the time they hit the pavement.

That day, they must have been in a hurry to get home. And loud. So loud.

“Ow!” one yelled while another laughed, but I didn’t turn back to see what happened.

I sped up, my shins burning.

They all cracked up at the same time.

Then got quiet.

I willed my legs to move faster.

I wasn’t sure why I was hurrying. Still, adrenaline surged through my heart.

And Then?

They barked.

One at first. He barked like a dog. At me.

The others laughed, then they barked too.

Can you see it?

A 10-year-old girl hurrying down the sidewalk, her ponytail swinging side to side, and a group of four or five boys following behind her, barking.

I ran.

What was I afraid of? Who knows.

But for some reason, I got a bad vibe off those boys on that day. As a latchkey kid, I knew there was no adult at home waiting for me. Nobody who would come looking for me if I wasn’t home at the right time.

I’m still not 100 percent sure what they meant by barking. That I was ugly as a dog? That’s my best guess.

Just kids being mean, and not really a big deal.

Except for One Thing

As an adult, I’ve relived that afternoon more than it deserves.

Why didn’t I turn around and tell them to shut up? Why did I run? Why didn’t I at least laugh it off?

The truth is: I never stood up for myself as a kid.

I just let other kids say mean things to me.

Like in fifth grade when I was supposed to write a story that was two pages long but instead I wrote 20, and I was so proud of myself. When it was my turn to read the story out loud in class, my voice squeaked and the paper shook in my hands. After I read “The End,” a boy laughed and said “She just stole that from The Goonies.” (Which was true, but still.)

Or my crush in sixth grade who told me I was “flat.”

Or the boy in ninth grade who told me: “Your nose is too big for your face.”

I want to go back in time to that shy girl, grab myself by the shoulders, and shake her until her hibernating confidence wakes like a cranky bear.

What Changes When You Have a Daughter

In college, I finally learned how to stand up for myself.

But now I’m in charge of raising three girls.

The thought of other kids saying mean things to my daughters? Spreading gossip, snubbing them, barking at them? Talk about waking a cranky bear.

I’m not silly enough to think I’ll be there to protect them.

We have this thing we say at our house when any of the kids get scared or are about to do something dangerous.

My husband or I will say: “What’s my number one job?”

And the kid will answer: “To keep me safe.” Unless they’re dead-set on doing that dangerous thing. Then they’ll just glare, and we’ll say that part for them.

But part of keeping my daughters safe is teaching them how to keep themselves safe. How to speak up. How to honor her boundaries.

Related: How to Raise a Girl to Know That Her Body Is Her Body

12 Best Girl Power Songs for Raising Strong Girls

We’re a big fan of family dance parties at our house. When the mood is tense or tones get snippy, you can throw on some dance music and boogie away the bad juju.

Lately, I’ve found myself craving a playlist of songs to inspire my girls to be confident, strong, and brave. Recent, fresh songs. Not stuff my grandma listened to. But also nothing that mentions twerking or milkshakes or “that boom boom that all the boys chase.”

Are my expectations too high for a Saturday afternoon playlist of songs for girls? Maybe.

But I know from experience that songs can inspire you to take a stand for yourself.

I Will Survive^† infused me with confidence that I could leave a toxic relationship. Once Was Love on the precipice of divorce. Help Yourself when I wasn’t sure I could get through it.

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

And so I put together a playlist for my daughters. A playlist for strong girls, even if they don’t know how strong they are quite yet.

If you’re raising a girl, play these songs for her.

Let the lyrics of these girl empowerment songs percolate in her growing, learning, blossoming spirit.

And when the day comes that someone is mean to her, your daughter will be ready to stand toe-to-toe with the meanness and tell him to shove that bark where the sun don’t shine.

Related: 20 Best Kids’ Dance Songs With Kid-Friendly Lyrics (And Loved by Parents, Too)

1. Fight Song by Rachel Platten

“This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I’m alright song
My power’s turned on
(Starting right now) I’ll be strong
I’ll play my fight song
And I don’t really care if nobody else believes
‘Cause I’ve still got a lot of fight left in me”

See full lyrics

2. Put Your Records On by Corinne Bailey Rae

“Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

You’re gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow.”

See full lyrics

3. Brave by Sara Bareilles

“Say what you wanna say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
With what you want to say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave”

See full lyrics

4. Race You by Elizabeth & The Catapult

“‘Cause there’s a shortcut down the beaten path
One step to the right, three to the left
The moon’s so high
The wind’s so fast
Makes us feel like goddesses”

See full lyrics

5. Mean by Taylor Swift

“You, with your words like knives
And swords and weapons that you use against me
You have knocked me off my feet again
Got me feeling like a nothing
You, with your voice like nails on a chalkboard
Calling me out when I’m wounded
You, picking on the weaker man

Well you can take me down with just one single blow
But you don’t know, what you don’t know…

Someday I’ll be living in a big ole city
And all you’re ever gonna be is mean”

See full lyrics

6. Nobody Ever Told You by Carrie Underwood

“Take off all the makeup girl
Shine your light, show the world
Don’t be shy, don’t be scared
You don’t have to hide under there
Let’s throw away all the magazines
Turn off the static on the TV
Wish you could see yourself the way I do”

See full lyrics

7. Roar by Katy Perry

“I used to bite my tongue and hold my breath
Scared to rock the boat and make a mess
So I sat quietly, agree politely
I guess that I forgot I had a choice
I let you push me past the breaking point
I stood for nothing, so I fell for everything

You held me down, but I got up
Already brushing off the dust
You hear my voice, you hear that sound
Like thunder gonna shake the ground
You held me down, but I got up
Get ready ’cause I’ve had enough
I see it all, I see it now”

See full lyrics

8. Make a Noise by Katie Herzig

“Look up
You see the sky on fire
Look out
The water’s getting higher, now
Believe that you can change the world
Your dreams, have been living in a code of silence
So let them out
Find your voice, find your voice
Make a noise”

See full lyrics

9. Afterlife by Ingrid Michaelson

“You and me
We got this
You and me
We’re beautiful
Beautiful

We are
We are going to be alright
We got
We got we always got the fight in us”

See full lyrics

10. Whole Wide World by Mindy Gledhill

“I’m gonna walk a hundred miles
I’m gonna whistle all the while
If that’s what it takes to make me smile
I’m gonna walk a hundred miles

I’m gonna run right up this hill
Summer sky or winter chill
If I gotta take a break I will
But I’m gonna run right up this hill”

See full lyrics

11. Now Is the Start by A Fine Frenzy

“Now, oh, now is the start
Oh, and it goes with where you go
Don’t lose faith for the friends
You don’t need a thing, you already know
You are right as you are”

See full lyrics

12. Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

“Looks like a girl, but she’s a flame
So bright, she can burn your eyes
Better look the other way
You can try, but you’ll never forget her name
She’s on top of the world”

See full lyrics

Get the Spotify Playlist

If you use Spotify, head over to this Girl Power playlist and click the heart button to add it to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new girl power songs, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

For more tips on raising strong girls, check out How to Teach Young Girls to Demand Respect.

Your Turn

What’s your favorite girl power song? Share in a comment below!

The post 12 Best Girl Power Songs to Inspire Your Daughter (And You) appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

I miss the days of mixtapes. Flipping through every album you own, hunting for the perfect songs to add to your mix. The math challenge of fitting as many songs as possible onto a 60-minute cassette tape. The satisfaction of handing your creation to a friend or significant other and knowing they’ll love it.

Digital music has taken all the romance out of how to make a mixtape.

• Do you post a track from Spotify on Facebook?
• Export a playlist from iTunes and send your friend an XML file that’s completely devoid of emotion?
• Buy an Amazon music gift card, and all your friend gets to show for it is an automated email notification?

It’s just not the same.

Want to Share a Playlist? Try a Modern Day Mixtape

Since my husband and I first started dating, we’ve been sharing the best unknown love songs back and forth with each other. Kind of like an ongoing love letter.

One of us will discover a few hidden gems, then bundle them up into a modern day mixtape to share with the other.

Follow this tutorial to share your favorite music with friends and loved ones. A mixtape also makes the perfect DIY gift for birthdays, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and just about any occasion you could think of.

But first, a disclaimer: I’m not a lawyer. But at the time of writing this article, the iTunes terms and conditions do allow you to burn an audio playlist up to seven times for personal, non-commercial use. It doesn’t explicitly talk about sharing your burned playlist with others, but to me that counts as personal, non-commercial use. If you bought your digital music elsewhere, those terms and conditions are probably different, so if you’re concerned you’ll want to check those out.

How to Make a Mixtape in the Digital Age

Here’s how to make a mixtape as a gift:

1. Get a USB drive, like this super cute USB memory stick that’s designed to look like a mixtape. But any USB drive will do, like a crystal owl necklace, a gold violin keychain, or…Yoda?

1. Pick the songs for your mixtape playlist. If you need some inspiration, check out these playlists:
   • For your honey – 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs
   • For Christmas – The 12 Best Christmas Songs You’ve Never Heard
   • For a pregnant friend – 20 Songs for an Awesome Baby Shower Playlist and 6 Surprising Songs to Soothe a Fussy Baby
   • For kids – 12 Songs for a Rockin’ Family Dance Party
2. Copy the songs from your playlist to your USB drive. Here’s how I do this: Right-click the song in iTunes and select Show in Finder or Show in Explorer, then copy the file to the USB drive.
3. Wrap the USB drive, add a thoughtful card, and you’re done!

Your Turn

How do you share your favorite music with friends and loved ones? Share your tip in a comment below!

The post How to Make a Mixtape That Will Delight Someone Special appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

When my husband and I first started dating, we bonded over music.

But not just any music. Specifically, we had a bit of an obsession with love songs.

To be clear, I’m not talking about Celine Dion and Mariah Carey. Nothing like the cheesy stuff you’d find on a list of the greatest love songs of all time.

What we couldn’t get enough of were unknown love songs.

As an ongoing love letter to each other, we started a love songs playlist. Years later, we’re still adding to it.

Lately, we’ve been on the hunt for romantic holiday songs to get our playlist in the Christmas spirit.

12 Winter Love Songs for Your Holiday Playlist

Here are the best unknown love songs we found for your holiday playlist. Some mention Christmas, but we focused on finding songs that conjure up cozy winter images—perfect for playing in the background while you snuggle by the fire with your honey.

Side note: This playlist makes the perfect heartfelt homemade holiday gift for your spouse or partner.

Just buy a few of the holiday love songs listed below (maybe mix in some of The 12 Best Christmas Songs You’ve Never Heard), and follow my instructions on how to share a playlist. Then wrap your playlist in something festive, and you’re done!

Get Your Copy: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

1. Snowfall^† by Ingrid Michaelson

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

“I want a snowfall kind of love
The kind of love that keeps you in bed all day
Oh I want to walk through with you
And watch it all melt away”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. More Than I Asked For by Joy Williams

“You and me
Underneath the evergreen,
Rosy cheeks,
Holding hands while the snow is falling”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. 30 Days by Never Shout Never

“I’m making a list, hell, I’ll check it twice
Of all the things you’ve done in my life
Then I’ll send it your way
So you see why I love you”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Winter Moon by Mindy Gledhill

“On the A.M. radio, they’re playing Christmas songs
So horrendously off key, you loudly sing along
Cider simmers on the stove,
Reading Dickens by the glow
Of the light that lingers through the window”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. The Idea of Growing Old by The Features

“You in your kerchief and me in my cap
We can settle down for an afternoon nap
You turn me on to the idea of growing old”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. All My Bells Are Ringing by Lenka

“So take my heart
This Christmas
And wrap it
In a ribbon
And a bow”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. Blood Bank by Bon Iver

“That secret that we know that we don’t know how to tell
I’m in love with your honor, I’m in love with your cheeks
What’s that noise up the stairs, babe?
Is that Christmas morning creaks?”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Mushaboom by Feist

“Old dirt road
Knee deep snow
Watching the fire as we grow old”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. It Really Is (A Wonderful Life) by Mindy Smith

“I’d never noticed that the crackle of a fire
Makes music when accompanied by kiss
And when did I start having dreams about pumpkin pies
There’s not a lot that’s sweeter than this”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. All That I Want by The Weepies

“Above the rooftops
The full moon dips its golden spoon
I wait on clip-clops, deer might fly
Why not? I met you”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Cold December Night by Michael Bublé

“The twinkling of the lights
The scent of candles fill the household
Old Saint Nick has taken flight
With a heart on board so please be careful”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. It Snowed by Meaghan Smith

“It snowed last night
Everything is sparkling with diamond light
The road is bare
It’s four feet high
Honey let’s play hooky
Cause it snowed last night”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Get your copy now: 150 Conversation Starters for Couples That Will Make You Feel Closer Than Ever

Want More?

Check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

Your Turn

What are your favorite winter love songs? Leave a comment to share your picks!

The post 12 Best Winter Love Songs That Will Keep You Warm and Cozy appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

My husband and I have been writing an ongoing love letter to each other since we started dating, in the form of a love songs playlist. But not just any love song will do.

Our playlist is a collection of hidden gems—the best unknown love songs in the world.

You won’t find Celine Dion in this list. Mariah Carey either.

What you will find is a treasure trove of fresh, romantic tunes that will put a smile on your face.

The Best Unknown Love Songs for Any Occasion

From date nights to Valentine’s Day, weddings to anniversaries, and every day in between—play these underrated love songs for your honey, and you’ll get major brownie points.

For each song below, you’ll find a snippet from the lyrics as well as the official video if available. Use this list to build a Valentine’s Day playlist of the most romantic songs your sweetheart has never heard, and bring on the heart-eyes!

I’m always on the lookout for new songs for our playlist. If you know of a unique love song that’s not on this list, please leave a comment below to share.

Get yours now: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

1. 5 Years Time by Noah & The Whale

Oh well, in five years time we could be walking ’round a zoo
With the sun shining down over me and you
And there’ll be love in the bodies of the elephants too
And I’ll put my hands over your eyes, but you’ll peep through

Listen: Apple Music^† | Amazon Music

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

2. All ‘Cause of You by The 88

I’ve been sinking through the drain of love,
Lift my eyes to skies of up above,
Listen to me this is how I feel,
Since I knew you all my thoughts are real,
You’re the only one i wanna do,
Everything’s new,
And it’s all ’cause of you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. Lost in the Moment by Daniel Lee Kendall

You were wearin’ that pretty white dress
You wore it with your pretty smile
I was trying to do my best
To see you smile your pretty smile at me

Listen: Apple Music

4. Just a Boy by Angus & Julia Stone

One kiss from you, and I’m drunk up on your potion
That big old smile is all you wore
Girl you make me want to feel
Things I’ve never felt before

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. Wonderin by Nicole Reynolds

My heart is made of instruments
That strum this song for you
They bend and twist each simple pitch
In hopes you’ll feel it too

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. Tighten Up by The Black Keys

I don’t need to get steady
I know just how I feel
I’m telling you to be ready
My dear

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. The Girl by City and Colour

While I’m off chasing my own dreams
Sailing around the world
Please know that I’m yours to keep
My beautiful girl

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. When We First Met by Hellogoodbye

As I kept track of every haircut that we ever had
I could, I could see how long it had been, oh
Oh, how long it had been
And this thought, made it clearer
I ought to be near her

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

Oh I like you so very much so much in fact I gotta wake you up
It’s not that I have words to speak
I just wanna see you looking at me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. You’re What I’m Looking For by Rooney

When I look at you, my troubles all go away
I’m someone new, it feels just like a new day
When you hold me tight, I get lost in your arms
I know tonight I’ve finally found what I’m looking for

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. OK by Holly Conlan

And now I’m confused on top of it all
I was ready to lose, and ready to fall
And something about the way that you look at me
Makes it feel okay

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. Gray or Blue by Jaymay

But your sweatshirt says it all
With the hood over your face
I can’t keep starin’ at your mouth
Without wonderin’ how it tastes

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Be My Thrill by The Weepies

Be my youth
My kissing booth
My little sweet tooth
My beauty and truth

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Sweeter Than This by Katie Herzig

I’ll feed you Ramen and you’ll braid my hair
Anything goes when you don’t even care
When you’re this far in love

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

15. The Lucky Ones by Tim Myers

Lately I’ve been smiling outside
I feel good, I feel light as a feather
Open up the window look out at the sky
Everything’s better
Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah
We’re the lucky ones

Listen: Apple Music

16. Fine By Me by Andy Grammer

I’m just saying it’s fine by me
If you never leave
And we can live like this forever
It’s fine by me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

17. I Never by Rilo Kiley

So let’s take a loan out, put it down on a house
In a place we’ve never lived
In a place that exists in the pages of scripts
And the songs that they sing
And all of the beautiful things
That make you weep, but don’t have to make you weak

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

18. Oh, It Is Love by Hellogoodbye

Oh say, wouldn’t you like to be older and married with me?
Oh say, wouldn’t it be nice to know right now that we’ll be

Someday holding hands in the end
All our broken plans will have been
I will kiss you soft so you know

It is love from the first
Time I pressed my lips against yours
Thinking, “Oh, is it love?”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

19. All Smiles by Jess Penner

Hands full of lemon drops all disappear
All lips like children, the voices we hear
They’re all smiles, they’re all smiles, they’re all smiles

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

20. Rhythm of Love by Plain White T’s

My heart beats like a drum
A guitar string to the strum
A beautiful song to be sung
She’s got blue eyes deep like the sea
That roll back when she’s laughing at me
She rises up like the tide
The moment her lips meet mine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

21. Reasons to Love You by Meiko

I wanna fall asleep with you tonight
Wanna know that I am safe when you hold me tight
Wanna feel how I wanna feel, forever

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

22. Here is a Heart by Jenny Owen Youngs

Here is a heart
I made it for you so take it
Battered and braised
Grilled and sautéed
Just how you like it

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

23. Parentheses by The Blow

And when you’re holding me
We make a pair of parentheses
There’s plenty space to encase
Whatever weird way my mind goes
I know I’ll be safe in these arms

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

24. You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne

And baby, the way you move me it’s crazy
It’s like you see right through me
And make it easier
You please me you don’t even have to try

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

25. Life Less Ordinary by Carbon Leaf

The night you came into my life
Well it took the bones of me, took the bones of me
You blew away my storm and strife
And shook the bones of me, shook the bones of me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

26. Toothpaste Kisses by The Maccabees

Lay with me, I’ll lay with you
We’ll do the things that lovers do
Put the stars in our eyes
And with heart-shaped bruises
And late night kisses
Divine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

27. You Make Me Happy by Lindsey Ray

It’s the heart on your sleeve never making me wonder
It’s the bond that we tie up and over and under
You’re the sun and the rain and my grass is always green
With a kiss on my cheek, always letting me know
I’m the birds and the bees, I’m the apple in your eye
I know that you know that I know you’re all I need

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

28. Question by Old 97’s

She’d had no idea, she started to cry
She said in a good way
He took her by the hand, walked her back home
They took the long way

Some day somebody’s gonna ask you
A question that you should say yes to
Once in your life
Maybe tonight I’ve got a question for you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

29. Everyday by Vetiver

I say it all the time
You don’t pay no mind
When I tell you that I love you
Now do ya?
I wanna be clear
All I wanna hear is your voice
Have your face to see
How happy that would make me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

30. The Idea of Growing Old by The Features

We can talk all night, we can talk all day
We can play charades when there is nothing to say
You turn me on to the idea of growing old

I can make you angry, you can make me a smile
We can make origami with the kids for a while
You turn me on to the idea of growing old

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

31. Home by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Hot and heavy, pumpkin pie
Chocolate candy, Jesus Christ
Ain’t nothing please me more than you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

32. What I Wouldn’t Do by A Fine Frenzy

If we were children I would bake you a mud pie
Warm and brown beneath the sun
Never learned to climb a tree but I would try
Just to show you what I’d done

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

33. Sweet Pea by Amos Lee

Sweet pea
What’s all of this about?
Don’t get your way all you do is fuss and pout
You’re the only reason I keep on coming home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

34. Blue Eyes by Cary Brothers

All the lights on and you are alive
But you can’t point the way to your heart
So sublime, when the stars are aligned
But you don’t know
You don’t know the greatness you are

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

35. Anyone Else But You by The Moldy Peaches

Here is the church and here is the steeple
We sure are cute for two ugly people
I don’t see what anyone can see
In anyone else but you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

36. In Spite of Ourselves by Iris DeMent and John Prine

She thinks all my jokes are corny
Convict movies make her horny
She likes ketchup on her scrambled eggs
Swears like a sailor when shaves her legs
She takes a lickin’
And keeps on tickin’
I’m never gonna let her go.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

37. Little Romance by Ingrid Michaelson

I see you’ve pressed those pants
I see you’ve styled that hair
There doesn’t seems to be much of it there
You’re in the mood to dance
Can I have this chance
To be your little romance?

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

38. I’m Not Sorry by Meiko

I hope it won’t scare you away
I wanna have your kids someday
They’d all have dimples on their face like you
And when you’re old or bald or grey
I’m gonna love your wrinkly face
Nobody else could love you like I do

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

39. All I Want Is You by Barry Louis Polisar

If you were a wink, I’d be a nod
If you were a seed, well I’d be a pod
If you were the floor, I’d wanna be the rug
And if you were a kiss, I know I’d be a hug

All I want is you, will you be my bride
Take me by the hand and stand by my side
All I want is you, will you stay with me?
Hold me in your arms and sway me like the sea

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

40. Love Love Love (Let You Go) by Andy Grammer

No defenses I’m too deep for common sense
Well it’s love, love, love, love, love
Oh my I’m so delighted; I don’t try to even fight it
I think you should know that I will never let you go

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

41. The Little Things by Carlos Bertonatti

Run, run, run
Underneath my pillow case
And come, come, come
Closer to me, yeah
If life has taught me anything
It?’s all about the little things

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

42. Overwhelmed by Tim McMorris

I could sing a thousand songs about you, still that would not do
There’s a million tiny things that make the things that you do, you
I wouldn’t trade our time together, wouldn’t trade for anything
‘Cause nothing else here in the world can bring the happiness you bring

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

43. Stuck on You by Meiko

‘Cause you are the one I could see having fun with
Not just for the night, but for the rest of my life
You are the one I could never be done with
I want you tonight and for the rest of my life

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

44. Thank You by Mozella

You fight off my enemies
You’d take a bullet for me
And you know I’d do the same for you
‘Cause that’s how we roll
Connected at the soul

Listen: Apple Music

45. All of You by Busby Marou

So if you choose always me
I’ll make a promise to choose all of you
And if you will follow me now
I’ll be always there to follow you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

46. Better Than Love by Griffin House

So when I’m walking down the road and feeling bad
Can’t understand the things you do
Nothing turns out the way we planned
You’re still my baby, and I’m still your man

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

47. Love by Matt White

And I, I, I, I, I…I can feel it in your kiss
It just gives me tender bliss
What is love, what is love?
I just want it to be love

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

48. Lucky by Kat Edmonson

Happiness
Feels like this
Your heart upon your sleeve
There’s a place
In time and space
Where we can all be free

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

49. 3 Rounds and a Sound by Blind Pilot

They’re playing our song
They’re playing our song
Can you see the lights?
Can you hear the hum
Of our song?

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

50. Brand New Day by Lindsey Ray With Tim Myers

Wake up
Open your sleepy eyes
Stretch out
Make up the bed now
Sunlight
Kissing your face again
Breakfast
Coffee is waiting

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

51. You Are the Only One I Love by Jaymay

The first thing that you said to me was
“Jamie I love you, Jamie I love you, Jamie, Jamie, I love you”
And I’ve never been one to believe in love at first sight
But now I know it exists

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

52. Love Is What You Are by Old 97’s

Love is what you are
Not what you do
I know what you are
And I love you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

53. Don’t Let Me Fall by Lenka

You’re just the one that I’ve been waiting for
I’ll give you all that I have to give and more
But don’t let me fall
Don’t let me fall

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

54. Snowfall by Ingrid Michaelson

“I want a snowfall kind of love
The kind of love that keeps you in bed all day
Oh I want to walk through with you
And watch it all melt away”

Listen: Apple Music

55. More Than I Asked For by Joy Williams

“You and me
Underneath the evergreen,
Rosy cheeks,
Holding hands while the snow is falling”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

56. 30 Days by Never Shout Never

“I’m making a list, hell, I’ll check it twice
Of all the things you’ve done in my life
Then I’ll send it your way
So you see why I love you”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

57. Winter Moon by Mindy Gledhill

“On the A.M. radio, they’re playing Christmas songs
So horrendously off key, you loudly sing along
Cider simmers on the stove,
Reading Dickens by the glow
Of the light that lingers through the window”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

58. The Way I Am by Ingrid Michaelson

I’d buy you Rogaine
When you start losing all your hair
Sew on patches to all you tear
‘Cause I love you more than
I could ever promise

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

59. All My Bells Are Ringing by Lenka

“So take my heart
This Christmas
And wrap it
In a ribbon
And a bow”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

60. Blood Bank by Bon Iver

“That secret that we know that we don’t know how to tell
I’m in love with your honor, I’m in love with your cheeks
What’s that noise up the stairs, babe?
Is that Christmas morning creaks?”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

61. Mushaboom by Feist

“Old dirt road
Knee deep snow
Watching the fire as we grow old”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

62. It Really Is (A Wonderful Life) by Mindy Smith

“I’d never noticed that the crackle of a fire
Makes music when accompanied by kiss
And when did I start having dreams about pumpkin pies
There’s not a lot that’s sweeter than this”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

63. All That I Want by The Weepies

“Above the rooftops
The full moon dips its golden spoon
I wait on clip-clops, deer might fly
Why not? I met you”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

64. Cold December Night by Michael Bublé

“The twinkling of the lights
The scent of candles fill the household
Old Saint Nick has taken flight
With a heart on board so please be careful”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

65. It Snowed by Meaghan Smith

“It snowed last night
Everything is sparkling with diamond light
The road is bare
It’s four feet high
Honey let’s play hooky
Cause it snowed last night”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

66. Mango by Catey Shaw

Oh sweet mango baby
won’t you be mine?
I know you don’t like labels
but let me buy you some wine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

67. Darlin’ by Dave Barnes

Darlin’ we got it made
Your kids are at your mama’s and baby all the bills are paid
How ’bout a kiss, honey I’ll meet you half way

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

68. Loser by Julian Moon

Full disclosure: One curse word in this one!

There’s a little bit of loser in us
Just two weirdos who fell in love
I guess we’re made from the same weird stuff
Being a loser with you doesn’t suck

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

69. Vintage by High Dive Heart

You’re timeless like an old stack of vinyl
Hundred-year-old bottle of wine-o
Love the classics but what do I know?
You’re the pair of Chucks I never wanna take off
The beat the DJ can’t help but drop
Your Mona Lisa makes my heart stop

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

70. I Don’t Know by Lisa Hannigan

I don’t know if you can dance
If the thought ever occurred to you
If you eat what you’ve been given or you push it around your plate
I’d like to cook for you all the same
I would want to
I am game

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Get the Spotify Playlist

If you use Spotify, head over to this Unknown Love Songs playlist and click the heart button to add it to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new love songs, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Get your copy now: 150 Conversation Starters for Couples That Will Make You Feel Closer Than Ever

Want More?

Check out my more specific love song playlists here:

• 16 Funny Love Songs Guaranteed to Make You Smile
• The 14 Best Love Songs You’ve Never Heard
• 25 Songs for the Perfect Wedding Playlist
• 14 Love Songs for the Perfect DIY Valentine’s Day Gift
• 12 Cozy Love Songs for Winter

Your Turn

What are your favorite unknown love songs? Share in a comment below!

The post The All-Time Best Unknown Love Songs: 70+ Underrated Love Songs appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

Three weeks into summer, our summer idea board is a hit. At dinnertime, our 6-year-old loves thinking back to the fun parts of our day so we can add to the “done” section of the board.

(And our 1-year-old loves to play possum, grab the completed sticky note from her sister’s hand, and run around the house while we chase her.)

One sticky note in particular made it to the done section on the first day of summer and has had almost daily repeat requests: have a family dance party.

In the spring, we made a family dance party playlist. But I wanted something fresh to fit our carefree summer fun.

12 Songs for Your Summer Playlist

If you’re sick of playing Happy^† on repeat for the kids, listen to these songs and add what you like to your summer playlist.

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Play it on your road trips, at the kids’ lemonade stand, and at your July 4th barbecue party.

Roll down your windows, crank up the volume, and have a happy summer!

1. The Sound of Sunshine by Michael Franti and Spearhead

And we say that’s the sound of the sun going down
And the people of the world start to paint the town
The day that’s long is a day complete
So kick off your shoes and relax your feet

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. Where the Boat Leaves From by Zac Brown Band

There’s a place where the boat leaves from
It takes away all your big problems
You got worries you can drop them in the blue ocean
But you gotta get away to where the boat leaves from

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. Race You by Elizabeth & The Catapult

1 2 3 set, ready set go
May heaven help you if you’re slow
We’re gonna run like bandits
While the flames are chasin’
Racin’ racin’ racin’ racin’ back home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Every Day Is a Holiday by Alex Mercier

I think it’s time for us to get away
Where life is beautiful in every way

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. The Heart by Needtobreathe

Ain’t no gift like the present tense
Ain’t no love like an old romance
Got’sta make hay when the sun is shinin’
Can’t waste time when it comes time to dance

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. Brighter Than the Sun by Colbie Caillat

Oh, we could be the stars, falling from the sky
Shining how we want, brighter than the sun

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons

I’ve been waiting to smile,
Been holding it in for a while,
Take you with me if I can
Been dreaming of this since a child
I’m on top of the world.

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Constellations by Jack Johnson

This one is a little slower than the others—perfect for naps on long car rides or for sweet daddy-daughter dances.

It was just another night
With a sunset
And a moonrise not so far behind
To give us just enough light
To lay down underneath the stars
Listen to papa’s translations
Of the stories across the sky
We drew our own constellations

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. One of Those Days by Joy Williams

It’s all mine this kind of life of hurry up and wait
So many bills, too little frills, and not enough flowers

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. Life Is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

There’s a world outside ev’ry darkened door
Where blues won’t haunt you anymore
Where brave are free and lovers soar
Come ride with me to the distant shore

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Rhythm of Love by Plain White T’s

I told her, “I love the view from up here
Warm sun and wind in my ear
We’ll watch the world from above
As it turns to the rhythm of love”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. We’re Going to Be Friends by The White Stripes

Walk with me, Suzy Lee
through the park and by the tree
we will rest upon the ground
and look at all the bugs we found

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Want More?

Check out 12 Songs for a Rockin’ Family Dance Party.

Your Turn

What’s your favorite summer song? Share your pick in a comment below!

Social media photo by Nicki Varkevisser.

The post 12 Songs for a Carefree Summer appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

In our family, the person who makes it home first from work or school on a Friday afternoon has an important responsibility: Set everything up for our official Friday night family dance party.

Here’s how it works:

1. Clear the living room floor of LEGOs and baby teethers,
2. Queue up our playlist of the best kids’ dance songs, and
3. Crank the volume.

And if you’re the last person home?

Nothing beats that feeling of walking in the door, hearing the notes of happiness reverberate through the house, and stepping into the living room to see your whole family dancing and giggling.

A family dance party is one of the best ways to spend quality time with your kids after a day apart – or if you’re just feeling cooped up indoors because of cold/rainy/sweltering weather. Plus, dancing is good for your health in lots of ways, from heart health to stress levels and more.

But Here’s the Problem

When you search for kids’ dance music, you’ll find grating kids’ music that sets your teeth on edge or classic dance songs you’ve heard so many times you can no longer stand them.

For example, I don’t mind listening to a 90’s hit like “Macarena” or “Dancing Queen” by ABBA once in a while, but I certainly don’t need it in my regular playlist rotation once a day (or more). Because just like with children’s books your kid loves and wants you to read over and over, you can expect them to ask for your family dance party playlist again and again.

So you might as well pick kids’ dance music you can both enjoy.

20 Happy Kids’ Dance Songs That Parents Love, Too

Here’s a clean playlist of dance music for kids that’s fun for the whole family to shake their booties to. These contemporary, upbeat tunes have clean lyrics with no swear words, but unlike most dance music for kids, they’re not so kiddish that you’ll lock yourself in the bathroom til they’re over. Yo Gabba GAG ME.

Next time you and/or the kids have a bad case of the crankies, fire up a few of these songs and dance away the bad mojo. Research shows that babies and toddlers especially get a big dose of happy when moving their bodies to a rhythmic beat, and that mood boost goes for adults too.

You’ll tire the kids out before bedtime, plus you’ll burn a few calories yourself. Which means you can skip working out, or at least skip feeling guilty for not working out. (You’re welcome!)

And if you’re a teacher, this collection of the best dance songs for kids also works great for freeze dance, holiday celebrations, or brain breaks. For even more kid-friendly songs that adults love too, check out the Want More? section at the end of this article.

1. When Can I See You Again? by Owl City

You might recognize this one from the soundtrack of the Disney movie Wreck-It Ralph^†, but it’s not sickeningly sweet like some kids’ dance music. Just good clean fun!

Switch on the sky and the stars glow for you
Go see the world ’cause it’s all so brand new
Don’t close your eyes ’cause your future’s ready to shine
It’s just a matter of time, before we learn how to fly

See full lyrics

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

2. Let’s Be Young by Evan McHugh

This upbeat song perfectly captures the essence of childhood:

We could count the shooting stars
We could radio to Mars
Secrets in the dark
Whisper la, la, la, la
We could find a place to hide
Catching fireflies
Staying up all night
Waiting for the sunrise
Just you and I

See full lyrics

3. Be OK by Ingrid Michaelson

This song is a great fit for those days your child is coping with big emotions, plus it’s a fun song to dance to as you sing along to the catchy chorus:

I just want to know today, know today, know today
Know that maybe I will be okay

See full lyrics

4. More of This by Vetiver

I randomly stumbled on this little gem of a song, and my kids loved it so much it became a staple on our family dance party playlist.

I wish I had…
More of this, Less to miss
Now is the right time
Our love is more than enough to calm my troubled mind

See full lyrics

5. Girl by Jukebox the Ghost

My family has listened to this song at least three times a day since we first discovered it, and we never get sick of it. I’m convinced it’s impossible not to move your body along with this song. When you want to jam out with your fam, this song’s a must for your dance party playlist. My teen even said this is one of her all-time favorite songs.

And as time goes on and on I can feel my heart growing colder and colder
But then I see your face in the crowd, I think
How could I be starting over?
Cause when you meet someone new
It all just takes over you
And you think that you never really tried

See full lyrics

6. Brand New Day by Lindsey Ray with Tim Myers

Queue up this song when you or your child need a reset button or when you want to start the day off right.

Wake up, open your sleepy eyes
Stretch out, make up the bed nice
Sunlight, kissing your face again
Breakfast, coffee is waiting

See full lyrics

7. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

This song always makes me smile and bop my head. And how perfectly does this capture the mindset of a child waking you up early on a weekend morning?!

Oh I like you so very much so much in fact I gotta wake you up
It’s not that I have words to speak
I just wanna see you looking at me

See full lyrics

8. A-Punk by Vampire Weekend

Nobody seems to know what this song is actually about, but the absurdity of the lyrics is kind of perfect a kids’ dance playlist.

Look outside at the raincoats coming, say oh
Look outside at the raincoats coming, say oh

See full lyrics

9. Riptide by Vance Joy

This one part always hits me squarely in the chest because it reminds me of my kids when they sing along at full volume:

I love you when you’re singing that song
And I got a lump in my throat
‘Cause you’re gonna sing the words wrong

See full lyrics

10. The Sound of Sunshine by Michael Franti and Spearhead

Michael Franti has a few tracks that work well as clean songs for kids, and this is my family’s current favorite:

Here I am,
Just waiting for this storm to pass me by
And that’s the sound of sunshine
Coming down

See full lyrics

11. Kids by MGMT

This one has a great beat and also gets props for this surprising rhyme:

You pick the insects off plants
No time to think of consequences

See full lyrics

12. Black Horse and The Cherry Tree by KT Tunstall

The talking horse in this song is what won my kids over.

Well, my heart knows me better than I know myself
So I’m gonna let it do all the talking

See full lyrics

13. Happy by Pharrell Williams

No playlist of kids’ dance songs would be complete without this song, featured on the Despicable Me 2 movie soundtrack. Preschoolers especially love this one!

Because I’m happy
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
Because I’m happy
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth
Because I’m happy
Clap along if you know what happiness is to you
Because I’m happy
Clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do

See full lyrics

14. Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake

This song’s featured on the soundtrack of Trolls, and for good reason. I dare you not to groove along with this one!

I got this feeling inside my bones
It goes electric, wavy when I turn it on
All through my city, all through my home
We’re flying up, no ceiling, when we’re in our zone

See full lyrics

15. Try Everything by Shakira

Not only is this a fun dance song for kids, it also packs a powerful message about perseverance:

Birds don’t just fly
They fall down and get up
Nobody learns without getting it wrong

See full lyrics

16. Safe and Sound by Capital Cities

Even though this isn’t a kids’ song, it always makes me think of my kiddos:

I could lift you up
I could show you what you want to see
And take you where you want to beYou could be my luck
Even if the sky is falling down
I know that we’ll be safe and sound
We’re safe and sound

See full lyrics

17. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons

I love this one because of the reminder to us to stay connected, even when we’re feeling upset:

If you love somebody
Better tell them while they’re here ’cause
They just may run away from you

See full lyrics

18. I Like to Move It by will.i.am

You might remember this song from the Madagascar 2 soundtrack. Kids love busting out their best dance moves to this one!

Do my little, do my little, do my little dance
Ants in my pants, got ants in my pants

See full lyrics

19. Roar by Katy Perry

This is a fun song to dance to, plus the lyrics deliver a great message for kids about standing up for yourself. If your kid loves this Katy Perry song, be sure to check out Firework as well.

I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter
Dancing through the fire
‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar
Louder, louder than a lion
‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar

See full lyrics

20. Shake It Off by Taylor Swift

Kids love dancing to this song, and they’ll probably recognize it from the movie Sing.

Fair warning that this song does mention dating briefly a couple times, but the lines go right over most kids’ heads, and they’re pretty tame to boot. One line is “I go on too many dates,” and the other is “My ex-man brought his new girlfriend.”

I never miss a beat
I’m lightnin’ on my feet
And that’s what they don’t see, mmm-mmm
That’s what they don’t see, mmm-mmm

I’m dancin’ on my own (Dancin’ on my own)
I make the moves up as I go (Moves up as I go)
And that’s what they don’t know, mmm-mmm
That’s what they don’t know, mmm-mmm

See full lyrics

Get the Spotify Playlist: Clean Songs for Kids

If you use Spotify, head over to this Family Dance Party playlist and click the heart button to add it to your own Spotify library. As an added bonus, you’ll get extra clean dance songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

For more family-friendly playlists of clean songs for kids, check out:

• Funny Songs: 30 Funny Songs for Kids That Make Parents Giggle, Too
• Love Songs: The Best 20 Love Songs for Kids
• Girl Power Songs: 11 Best Girl Power Songs to Inspire Your Daughter (And You)
• Summer Playlist: 12 Songs for a Carefree Summer

Your Turn

What are your favorite kids’ dance songs for getting the sillies out? Share in a comment below!

The post 20 Best Kids’ Dance Songs With Clean Lyrics (And Loved by Parents, Too) appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

Some people collect stamps, or sports memorabilia, or Pez dispensers.

I collect love songs.

But not cheese-tacular junk like “My Heart Will Go On” or “Lady in Red.”

We’re talking modern, upbeat songs about real love—no heartbreak or unrequited love in this round-up.

Which makes my little unknown love songs collection the PERFECT ready-made Valentine’s Day gift from you to your honey.

Plus, these songs are so good you’ll want to add them to your own everyday playlist.

For an easy DIY Valentine’s Day gift that’ll get you major brownie points, buy a few of the love songs listed below and follow my tutorial on how to share a playlist. Wrap your playlist, maybe throw in a box of chocolate, and you’re done!

14 Unknown Love Songs for Your Valentine’s Day Playlist

For even more great love songs, be sure to check out the full love songs playlist linked at the end of this post.

Get Your Copy: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

1. Stuck on You^† by Meiko

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

‘Cause you are the one I could see having fun with
Not just for the night, but for the rest of my life
You are the one I could never be done with
I want you tonight and for the rest of my life

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. Love Love Love (Let You Go) by Andy Grammer

No defenses I’m too deep for common sense
Well it’s love, love, love, love, love
Oh my I’m so delighted; I don’t try to even fight it
I think you should know that I will never let you go

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. The Little Things by Carlos Bertonatti

Run, run, run
Underneath my pillow case
And come, come, come
Closer to me, yeah
If life has taught me anything
It?’s all about the little things

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Overwhelmed by Tim McMorris

I could sing a thousand songs about you, still that would not do
There’s a million tiny things that make the things that you do, you
I wouldn’t trade our time together, wouldn’t trade for anything
‘Cause nothing else here in the world can bring the happiness you bring

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. Thank You by Mozella

You fight off my enemies
You’d take a bullet for me
And you know I’d do the same for you
‘Cause that’s how we roll
Connected at the soul

Listen: Apple Music

6. All of You by Busby Marou

So if you choose always me
I’ll make a promise to choose all of you
And if you will follow me now
I’ll be always there to follow you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. Better Than Love by Griffin House

So when I’m walking down the road and feeling bad
Can’t understand the things you do
Nothing turns out the way we planned
You’re still my baby, and I’m still your man

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Love by Matt White

And I, I, I, I, I…I can feel it in your kiss
It just gives me tender bliss
What is love, what is love?
I just want it to be love

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. Lucky by Kat Edmonson

Happiness
Feels like this
Your heart upon your sleeve
There’s a place
In time and space
Where we can all be free

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. 3 Rounds and a Sound by Blind Pilot

They’re playing our song
They’re playing our song
Can you see the lights?
Can you hear the hum
Of our song?

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Brand New Day by Tim Myers

Wake up
Open your sleepy eyes
Stretch out
Make up the bed now
Sunlight
Kissing your face again
Breakfast
Coffee is waiting

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. You Are the Only One I Love by Jaymay

The first thing that you said to me was
“Jamie I love you, Jamie I love you, Jamie, Jamie, I love you”
And I’ve never been one to believe in love at first sight
But now I know it exists

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Love Is What You Are by Old 97’s

Love is what you are
Not what you do
I know what you are
And I love you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Don’t Let Me Fall by Lenka

You’re just the one that I’ve been waiting for
I’ll give you all that I have to give and more
But don’t let me fall
Don’t let me fall

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Get your copy now: 150 Conversation Starters for Couples That Will Make You Feel Closer Than Ever

Want More?

Check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

Your Turn

What’s your favorite contemporary, non-sappy love song? Leave a comment to share your fave!

Social media photo by D. Sharon Pruitt.

The post 14 Unknown Love Songs for the Perfect DIY Valentine’s Day Gift appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

Babies sure are particular little boogers.

Feed me, change me, help me fall asleep because I’m tired but don’t know how to make it happen on my own and oh by the way, when you try to help me you should know that I WILL HATE YOU FOREVER.

And sometimes, everything you’ve learned about how to calm a crying baby is useless because they cry for no obvious reason. Suddenly, your trusty baby must haves aren’t delivering. No Super Nanny is knocking on your door at just the right moment to swoop in and save the day.

So you run through a mental checklist.

She can’t be hungry, she just ate!

Clean diaper, check.

Woke up from a nap 20 minutes ago.

Is she cold? Hot?

Does she have a fever?

Is it something in my milk? Do I need to cut out dairy? Soy?

DEAR GOD PLEASE DON’T LET IT BE GLUTEN.

Not to Mention Babies’ Taste in Music

You never know what’s going to set them off.

Gone are the days of starting up your favorite playlist and relaxing on your way to the grocery store.

Our 5-month-old Bailey has this endearing habit of screaming at the top of her lungs every time we get in the car. Music is one of the only reliable things that will calm her down – but it has to be the RIGHT music.

She hates Michael Bublé^† and loves Maroon 5. Lullabies can suck it, but Johnny Cash is gold. Classical is out. Ron White monologues are…in?!

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Songs for Crying Babies That Will Calm Them Fast

This parent discovered that when his baby girl was fussy, Hypnotize by Notorious B.I.G. worked like magic.

But what if Notorious B.I.G. isn’t really up your alley?

Here are a few songs for crying babies that always calm our little one down. Even better, with the exception of #6, these songs are worthy of your own non-baby-related playlists.

Give these tunes a try – your baby might like them too. Or maybe she’ll be into misogynistic, sexually explicit lyrics.

Dude, no judgment. Whatever works.

1. Be OK by Ingrid Michaelson

I just want to be ok, be ok, be ok
I just want to be ok today

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. Down To The River To Pray by Alison Krauss

Oh sisters let’s go down
Let’s go down, come on down
Oh sisters let’s go down
Down in the river to pray`

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. Your Man Loves You, Honey by Tom T. Hall

Had my golf clubs on my shoulder
When you saw me first today
Wearin’ my old army sweater
That you thought you threw away

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Daddy Sang Bass by Johnny Cash

Daddy sang bass,
Mama sang tenor
Me and little brother would join right in there

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. Chicago by Lucy Wainwright Roche

Isn’t it funny, even with toys
And all of the money
People will still come out to see
Lights in the sky, and over the lake
On the fourth of July
Isn’t it funny, isn’t it funny
Isn’t it simple after all

Listen: Apple Music

6. Babies Little Self by Caspar Babypants

Okay, so this one may be not as surprising since it’s intended to be kids’ music in the first place. But it works so well I had to include it!

I can see baby’s little self
Baby’s little self in the morning time
I can see baby’s little hands
Baby’s little hands in the summertime
I can see baby’s little feet
Baby’s little feet in the eveningtime

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Your Turn

What are your favorite go-to songs for crying babies? Share your suggestion in a comment below!

The post The Best Songs for Crying Babies That Will Calm Them Fast appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

My fiancé and I have been writing an ongoing love letter to each other for two years—but not how you might think.

A few years ago after we both emerged from the fog of divorce, we were a little jaded when it came to love and romance and marriage. By “a little,” I mean completely.

And then Cupid or God or whoever you want to call it took a look at those brand spankin’ new brick walls we’d just worked so hard to build up around our poor shriveled hearts—and he thought he’d have a bit of fun.

“I don’t believe in anything but myself
I don’t believe in anything but myself
But then you opened up a door, you opened up a door
Now I start to believe in something else”

Ingrid Michaelson, “Soldier”

Suddenly, all those rom coms and sappy love songs made TOTAL sense.

So we started a playlist. We called it—get ready for this—”Love Songs.”

Every time one of us came across a song whose lyrics came close to describing the intensity of what we were feeling, we’d send the song title to the other and add it to the playlist.

More than two years later, we’re still adding to the playlist. We’ve curated more than 100 of the best unknown love songs out there.

But you won’t find Celine Dion or “When a Man Loves a Woman” on our Love Songs playlist. Sappy need not apply. These are modern, upbeat tunes about real love—not heartbreak or temporary infatuation or stalking.

Now that we’re planning our wedding, it dawned on us we’ve got ourselves a ready-made wedding playlist on our hands.

25 Unknown Love Songs for Your Wedding—Or Just Because

Today, I’m sharing my top 25 favorite unknown love songs.

If you’re getting married, save money on a DJ and use this playlist at your wedding reception. Otherwise, just listen to a few of these love songs and call your honey to share your favorite. Bonus: Research shows doing that will give you a better energy boost than a cup of coffee.

Enjoy!

Get Your Copy: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

1. The Lucky Ones^† by Tim Myers

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lately I’ve been smiling outside
I feel good, I feel light as a feather
Open up the window look out at the sky
Everything’s better
Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah
We’re the lucky ones

Listen: Apple Music

2. Fine By Me by Andy Grammer

I’m just saying it’s fine by me
If you never leave
And we can live like this forever
It’s fine by me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. I Never by Rilo Kiley

So let’s take a loan out, put it down on a house
In a place we’ve never lived
In a place that exists in the pages of scripts
And the songs that they sing
And all of the beautiful things
That make you weep, but don’t have to make you weak

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Oh, It Is Love by Hellogoodbye

Oh say, wouldn’t you like to be older and married with me?
Oh say, wouldn’t it be nice to know right now that we’ll be

Someday holding hands in the end
All our broken plans will have been
I will kiss you soft so you know

It is love from the first
Time I pressed my lips against yours
Thinking, “Oh, is it love?”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. All Smiles by Jess Penner

Hands full of lemon drops all disappear
All lips like children, the voices we hear
They’re all smiles, they’re all smiles, they’re all smiles

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. Rhythm of Love by Plain White T’s

My heart beats like a drum
A guitar string to the strum
A beautiful song to be sung
She’s got blue eyes deep like the sea
That roll back when she’s laughing at me
She rises up like the tide
The moment her lips meet mine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. Reasons to Love You by Meiko

I wanna fall asleep with you tonight
Wanna know that I am safe when you hold me tight
Wanna feel how I wanna feel, forever

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Sweeter Than This by Katie Herzig

I’ll feed you ramen and you’ll braid my hair
Anything goes when you don’t even care
When you’re this far in love

If it gets any sweeter than this
I don’t want to know
If it gets any sweeter than this
I don’t want to know

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. Parentheses by The Blow

And when you’re holding me
We make a pair of parentheses
There’s plenty space to encase
Whatever weird way my mind goes
I know I’ll be safe in these arms

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne

And baby, the way you move me it’s crazy
It’s like you see right through me
And make it easier
You please me you don’t even have to try

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. Life Less Ordinary by Carbon Leaf

The night you came into my life
Well it took the bones of me, took the bones of me
You blew away my storm and strife
And shook the bones of me, shook the bones of me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. Toothpaste Kisses by The Maccabees

Lay with me, I’ll lay with you
We’ll do the things that lovers do
Put the stars in our eyes
And with heart-shaped bruises
And late night kisses
Divine

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. You Make Me Happy by Lindsey Ray

It’s the heart on your sleeve never making me wonder
It’s the bond that we tie up and over and under
You’re the sun and the rain and my grass is always green
With a kiss on my cheek, always letting me know
I’m the birds and the bees, I’m the apple in your eye
I know that you know that I know you’re all I need

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Question by Old 97’s

She’d had no idea, she started to cry
She said in a good way
He took her by the hand, walked her back home
They took the long way

Some day somebody’s gonna ask you
A question that you should say yes to
Once in your life
Maybe tonight I’ve got a question for you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

15. Everyday by Vetiver

I say it all the time
You don’t pay no mind
When I tell you that I love you
Now do ya?
I wanna be clear
All I wanna hear is your voice
Have your face to see
How happy that would make me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

16. The Idea of Growing Old by The Features

We can talk all night, we can talk all day
We can play charades when there is nothing to say
You turn me on to the idea of growing old

I can make you angry, you can make me a smile
We can make origami with the kids for a while
You turn me on to the idea of growing old

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

17. Home by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Hot and heavy, pumpkin pie
Chocolate candy, Jesus Christ
Ain’t nothing please me more than you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

18. What I Wouldn’t Do by A Fine Frenzy

If we were children I would bake you a mud pie
Warm and brown beneath the sun
Never learned to climb a tree but I would try
Just to show you what I’d done

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

19. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

In a week when I fly back home
We’re gonna jump in bed and be all alone
you’ll make biscuits and I’ll make tea
We’ll curl up close and then fall asleep
To the sound of no one else no else around

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

20. Blue Eyes by Cary Brothers

All the lights on and you are alive
But you can’t point the way to your heart
So sublime, when the stars are aligned
But you don’t know
You don’t know the greatness you are

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

21. 5 Years Time by Noah & The Whale

Oh well, in five years time we could be walking ’round a zoo
With the sun shining down over me and you
And there’ll be love in the bodies of the elephants too
And I’ll put my hands over your eyes, but you’ll peep through

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

22. Lost in the Moment by Daniel Lee Kendall

You were wearin’ that pretty white dress
You wore it with your pretty smile
I was trying to do my best
To see you smile your pretty smile at me

Listen: Apple Music

23. Little Romance by Ingrid Michaelson

I see you’ve pressed those pants
I see you’ve styled that hair
There doesn’t seems to be much of it there
You’re in the mood to dance
Can I have this chance
To be your little romance?

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

24. Brand New Day by Tim Myers

Simple things
Is what life’s made of
Happiness
Is not that hard to find
I’m in love
And I’m so unmoving in this sand of life

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

25. All I Want Is You by Barry Louis Polisar

If you were a wink, I’d be a nod
If you were a seed, well I’d be a pod
If you were the floor, I’d wanna be the rug
And if you were a kiss, I know I’d be a hug

All I want is you, will you be my bride
Take me by the hand and stand by my side
All I want is you, will you stay with me?
Hold me in your arms and sway me like the sea

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Get your copy now: 150 Conversation Starters for Couples That Will Make You Feel Closer Than Ever

Want More?

Check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

Your Turn

What’s your favorite modern love song? Share your pick in a comment below!

Social media photo by Raúl Santos de la Cámara.

The post 25 Love Songs for the Perfect Wedding Playlist appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

Have you ever been to a get-together at someone’s house where they don’t have music playing in the background?

And then the lull comes.

It’s super quiet and no one’s saying anything, so you stare at the floor. You glance up real quick, but the lull continues, so you look down at your lap. Still no one’s saying anything, and you can sense everyone else’s eyeballs trying to settle on the least awkward thing, and you find yourself focusing on that weird stain on the kitchen counter that looks kind of like a uterus.

This is why you need music.

Add to that the unique brand of uncomfortableness that a baby shower brings with those blasted games, oohing-and-aahing at every boring gift, and the lack of alcohol – and did I mention the games? – and you REALLY need a baby shower playlist.

But Here’s the Problem With Most Baby Shower Playlists

I helped plan a baby shower recently, and my job was to provide the official baby shower playlist. But when I searched online, the baby shower songs I found consisted of:

1. Songs with “baby” in the title, or
2. Saccharine sweet kids’ music

The first approach gives you Baby Got Back^†, and the second makes the attendees gag. Not to mention the guest of honor. That new mama has years of cheesy kids’ music ahead of her – why subject her to it earlier than necessary?

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best 35 Baby Shower Songs You’ll Actually Enjoy

So I put together a new and improved baby shower playlist: These baby shower songs have sweet lyrics without being gag-worthy.

Since I first created this playlist, dozens of friends and neighbors have used this same playlist for baby showers they planned, and they’ve all reported back that the music was a crowd-pleaser for expectant moms, grandmas-to-be, and childless friends alike.

This playlist will give you hours of tunes to combat the baby shower awkwardness – so you can spend your free time figuring out which newborn must haves or funny baby shower gifts you’ll be getting your friend.

You may even find yourself listening to this playlist well after the baby shower – I did!

Note: Unlike other baby shower playlists you might find out there, this one features upbeat tunes appropriate for a party or get-together. For example, while the lyrics of Sade’s “The Sweetest Gift” are lovely, the slow pace would lull your guests to sleep, so you won’t find it in this list.

1. We’re Going to Be Friends by The White Stripes

Fall is here, hear the yell
Back to school, ring the bell
Brand new shoes, walking blues
Climb the fence, books and pens
I can tell that we’re going to be friends

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. Race You by Elizabeth & The Catapult

‘Cause there’s dirt on my skirt and pebbles stuck in my toes
Oh, which way should we go down
Nobody knows, nobody knows
I’m gonna race you back home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. Beautiful Day by U2

It’s a beautiful day
Sky falls, you feel like
It’s a beautiful day
Don’t let it get away

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

4. Count on Me by Bruno Mars

If you ever find yourself stuck in the middle of the sea
I’ll sail the world to find you
If you ever find yourself lost in the dark and you can’t see
I’ll be the light to guide you…

If you’re tossin’ and you’re turnin’
And you just can’t fall asleep
I’ll sing a song beside you
And if you ever forget how much you really mean to me
Every day I will remind you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. Sweet Pea by Amos Lee

Sweet pea
Apple of my eye
Don’t know when and I don’t know why
You’re the only reason I keep on coming home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. The Littlest Birds by The Be Good Tanyas

Well, I love you so dearly, I love you so clearly
I wake you up in the morning, so early just to tell you…
The littlest birds sing the prettiest songs

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da by The Beatles

In a couple of years they have built a home, sweet home
With a couple of kids running in the yard
Of Desmond and Molly Jones
Happy ever after in the market place

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. Haven’t Met You Yet by Michael Buble

I might have to wait, I’ll never give up
I guess it’s half timing, and the other half’s luck
Wherever you are, whenever it’s right
You’ll come out of nowhere and into my life

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. All Smiles by Jess Penner

Hands full of lemon drops all dissapear
All lips like children, the voices we hear
They’re all smiles, they’re all smiles, they’re all smiles

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. Upside Down by Jack Johnson

I want to turn the whole thing upside down
I’ll find the things they say just can’t be found
I’ll share this love I find with everyone
We’ll sing and dance to Mother Nature’s songs
I don’t want this feeling to go away

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. New Soul by Yael Naim

I’m a young soul in this very strange world
Hoping I could learn a bit bout what is true and fake

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. The One Who Loves You the Most by Brett Dennen

When the sky is falling from above you
And the wind is raging from the coast
And you want someone who truly loves you
I will be the one who loves you the most

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Baby by Devendra Banhart

Like some hog-tied kangaroos
You be one and I’ll be one too
We play it goofy, or we play it cool

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

I hear babies cry and I watch them grow,
They’ll learn much more
Than we’ll know
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

15. The Lucky Ones by Tim Myers

Lately I’ve been smiling outside
I feel good, I feel light as a feather
Open up the window look out at the sky
Everything’s better
Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah
We’re the lucky ones

Listen: Apple Music

16. Yellow by Coldplay

Look at the stars,
Look how they shine for you,
And everything you do,
Yeah, they were all yellow

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

17. Home by Phillip Phillips

Hold on to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave is stringing us along
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m gonna make this place your home

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

18. Thank You by Mozella

You fight off my enemies
You’d take a bullet for me
And you know I’d do the same for you
‘Cause that’s how we roll
Connected at the soul

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

19. Overwhelmed by Tim McMorris

From the first time I saw you
I knew that you’d be mine
And from the first glance you gave
My world it slowed, you stopped the time

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

20. Never Grow Up by Taylor Swift

Your little hand’s wrapped around my finger
And it’s so quiet in the world tonight
Your little eyelids flutter cause you’re dreaming
So I tuck you in, turn on your favorite night light
To you everything’s funny, you got nothing to regret
I’d give all I have, honey
If you could stay like that

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

21. Brave by Sara Bareilles

“Say what you wanna say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave
With what you want to say
And let the words fall out
Honestly I wanna see you be brave”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

22. Ho Hey by The Lumineers

“I belong with you
You belong with me
You’re my sweetheart”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

23. 1234 by Feist

“One, two, three, four
Tell me that you love me more
Sleepless long nights
That is what my youth was for”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

24. You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne

“Oh because, you are the best thing
You are the best thing
You are the best thing
Ever happened to me”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

25. Lucky by Kat Edmonson

“Happiness
Feels like this
Your heart upon your sleeve
There’s a place,
In time and space,
We can all be free”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

26. Fireflies by Owl City

“I’d like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It’s hard to say that I’d rather stay awake when I’m asleep
Because my dreams are bursting at the seams”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

27. Heaven by Brandi Carlile

“When you’re lyin’ here in my arms
I’m findin’ it hard to believe
We’re in heaven”

Listen: Apple Music

28. I’m Yours by Jason Mraz

“Look into your heart and you’ll find love, love, love, love.
Listen to the music of the moment, people dance and sing, we’re just one big family
And it’s our God-forsaken right to be loved, loved, loved, loved, loved”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

29. Beauty in the World by Macy Gray

“Stop and smell the flowers
And lose it the sweet music and dance with me
There is beauty in the world
So much beauty in the world”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

30. The Best Day by Taylor Swift

“Past the pumpkin patch
And the tractor rides
Look now – the sky is gold
I hug your legs and fall asleep
On the way home”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

31. First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes

“Yours is the first face that I saw
I think I was blind before I met you
Now I don’t know where I am
I don’t know where I’ve been
But I know where I want to go”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

32. What I Wouldn’t Do by A Fine Frenzy

“If we were children I would bake you a mud pie
Warm and brown beneath the sun
Never learned to climb a tree but I would try
Just to show you what I’d done”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

33. Far Away by Ingrid Michaelson

“I will bear three girls all with strawberry curls, little Ella and Nelly and Faye
While I’m combing their hair, I will catch his warm stare
On our island in the blue bay”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

34. Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars

“And when you smile
The whole world stops and stares for a while
‘Cause, girl, you’re amazing
Just the way you are”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

35. Who’s My Pretty Baby? by Elizabeth Mitchell

“Who’ll be my little man
Who’ll be my nice lady
Who’ll be my funny little buddy
Hey hey pretty babe”

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Related: The Newborn Must Haves That Will Make Your Baby Happy (And You, Too)

Get the Spotify Playlist: The Best Ever Baby Shower Playlist

If you use Spotify, head over to this playlist and click the heart button to add it to your own Spotify library. Bonus: You’ll get extra baby shower songs not yet featured in this post!

Want More?

Don’t forget to surprise the mom-to-be with one of these newborn must haves to make her life easier or one of these funny baby shower gifts.

Your Turn

Which songs would you add to the perfect baby shower playlist? Share your picks in a comment below!

The post The Best 35 Baby Shower Songs You’ll Actually Enjoy appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.

To help you get in the mood for Valentine’s Day, here are a few of my favorite contemporary, unknown love songs. If you like “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers, you should like these lesser known – but no less awesome – love songs.

I had two important criteria for the list:

• The lyrics had to be about actual love, not heartbreak or betrayal or stalking.
• Sappy need not apply.

In other words, these songs won’t send you running to the nearest vomitorium. So if you’re looking for Celine Dion or “When a Man Loves a Woman,” this isn’t the playlist for you. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for fresh, plain ol’ good music to play for your honey – enjoy! This playlist also works great for any ol’ date night throughout the year or even for a wedding.

Get Your Copy: The Best Conversation Starters for Couples

14 Best Unknown Love Songs

Below, you’ll find the best little-known love songs to share with your special person and put a smile on their face. For even more obscure love songs, check out 75+ of the Best Unknown Love Songs.

1. 5 Years Time by Noah & The Whale^†

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Oh well, in five years time we could be walking ’round a zoo
With the sun shining down over me and you
And there’ll be love in the bodies of the elephants too
And I’ll put my hands over your eyes, but you’ll peep through

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

2. All ‘Cause of You by The 88

I’ve been sinking through the drain of love,
Lift my eyes to skies of up above,
Listen to me this is how I feel,
Since I knew you all my thoughts are real,
You’re the only one i wanna do,
Everything’s new,
And it’s all ’cause of you

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

3. Lost in the Moment by Daniel Lee Kendall

You were wearin’ that pretty white dress
You wore it with your pretty smile
I was trying to do my best
To see you smile your pretty smile at me

Listen: Apple Music

4. Just a Boy by Angus & Julia Stone

One kiss from you, and I’m drunk up on your potion
That big old smile is all you wore
Girl you make me want to feel
Things I’ve never felt before

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

5. Wonderin by Nicole Reynolds

My heart is made of instruments
That strum this song for you
They bend and twist each simple pitch
In hopes you’ll feel it too

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

6. Tighten Up by The Black Keys

I don’t need to get steady
I know just how I feel
I’m telling you to be ready
My dear

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

7. The Girl by City and Colour

While I’m off chasing my own dreams
Sailing around the world
Please know that I’m yours to keep
My beautiful girl

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

8. When We First Met by Hellogoodbye

As I kept track of every haircut that we ever had
I could, I could see how long it had been, oh
Oh, how long it had been
And this thought, made it clearer
I ought to be near her

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

9. Sleepy Tigers by Her Space Holiday

Oh I like you so very much so much in fact I gotta wake you up
It’s not that I have words to speak
I just wanna see you looking at me

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

10. You’re What I’m Looking For by Rooney

When I look at you, my troubles all go away
I’m someone new, it feels just like a new day
When you hold me tight, I get lost in your arms
I know tonight I’ve finally found what I’m looking for

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

11. OK by Holly Conlan

And now I’m confused on top of it all
I was ready to lose, and ready to fall
And something about the way that you look at me
Makes it feel okay

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

12. Gray or Blue by Jaymay

But your sweatshirt says it all
With the hood over your face
I can’t keep starin’ at your mouth
Without wonderin’ how it tastes

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

13. Be My Thrill by The Weepies

Be my youth
My kissing booth
My little sweet tooth
My beauty and truth

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

14. Sweeter Than This by Katie Herzig

I’ll feed you Ramen and you’ll braid my hair
Anything goes when you don’t even care
When you’re this far in love

Listen: Apple Music | Amazon Music

Bonus: An Easy, Cheap Gift for Your Valentine

Buy a few of these songs, then burn them to a USB flash drive using my tutorial on how to share a playlist. Stick it in a small box, add a pretty red bow, and you’re done!

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I love Christmas music so much that any time during the year I find myself wanting a little pick-me-up, I crank up my favorite playlist of Christmas songs.

But even I get a little sick of hearing Jingle Bell Rock and Frosty the Snowman everywhere I go during the holiday season.

And so one year, I set out to find the best uncommon Christmas songs to add to my festive playlist. I listened to hundreds of songs to find the best of the best, and today I’m sharing the cream of the crop with you.

These alternative Christmas songs will get you in the holiday spirit without getting under your skin.

12 Alternative Christmas Songs That You’ll Love

These uncommon Christmas songs are so fresh and fun that they’ll quickly become your new favorites during the holiday season.

1. Sugar Cookie by Sugar & The Hi Lows

This catchy tune is an ode to my personal favorite part of the holiday season—baking cookies:

Help me decorate ’em, you can add some spice
We’ll color-coordinate them, til the temperature’s right
We’ll make something nice, you’ve been craving all this time

2. A Christmas Compromise by The Bird and the Bee

Don’t let the fact that this song is from a kids’ album fool you. The singer’s beau is Jewish, but she’s REALLY into Christmas:

Oh, could we get a Christmas tree?
I know on this one thing, we can’t agree
But nevermind the Jesus part
Won’t you let Santa into your heart?

3. It Snowed by Meaghan Smith

This tune sounds like one of those classic Christmas songs of yesteryear, but the lyrics are as fresh as a newly fallen snow:

It snowed, It snowed
It snowed last night
Everything is sparkling with diamond light
The road is bare
It’s four feet high
Honey, let’s play hooky
‘Cause it snowed last night

4. It’s Christmas by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors

If you’re looking for uncommon Christmas songs because you’re tired of everything Christmas-y, this song will be right up your alley:

Children singing merrily
Carols till my ears are bleeding
Christmas, at Christmas
Strangers and their looks of glee
Smiling at you stupidly
At Christmas, at Christmas

5. Maybe Next Year by Meiko

If you ended up in the Naughty camp this year, here’s an anthem for you:

I don’t think Santa’s coming this year
‘Cause I’ve been a bad, a bad girl
I’ve made my bed, now I’m lying in it
Without a care, a care in the world

6. The Gingerbread House Song by Kyle Harrington

This is a silly little Christmas song that kids love:

I wanna live in a gingerbread house
With a candy cane fence
To keep gummy bears out

7. Ribbons and Bows by Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves has lots of fun uncommon Christmas songs, but this one is my personal favorite:

Don’t need ribbons and bows to cure my woes
No, I just need your love
Expensive rings or diamond things
No, I just need your love

Don’t get me wrong, a shiny new Mercedes would look nice in my driveway
Or a roundtrip ticket for a long vacation on a big fancy jet plane

8. Snowfall by Ingrid Michaelson

This song will warm your insides like a cup of hot cocoa with a dash of ancho chili powder. One of my favorite alternative Christmas songs of all time!

I want a snowfall kind of love
The kind of love that quiets the world
I want a snowfall kind of love
‘Cause I’m a snowfall kind of girl…
I want a snowfall kind of love
The kind of love that keeps you in bed all day
Oh I want to walk through with you
And watch it all melt away

9. No Christmas for Me by Zee Avi

Missing your honey this Christmas? This one needs to go on your playlist of alternative Christmas songs.

There won’t be eggnogs by the cozy fire
There won’t be glasses of mulled wine either
There won’t even be a Christmas tree
‘Cause you’re not here to light it up with me
Santa honey, won’t you bring my baby back to me?

10. Someday at Christmas by Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer^† is my favorite and deserves a listen for the little twist he puts on the classic lyrics. But if you’re looking for something even more original, give this one a listen.

And some day at Christmas, there’ll be no wars
When we have learned what Christmas is for
When we have found out what life is really worth
Then there will be peace on Earth

^† This site is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

11. Home by Blake Shelton

You may have heard the version by Michael Buble, but this version from Blake’s album was rewritten with a seasonal feel.

I can close my eyes and see the angel on the tree
A blanket of snow outside and all my friends and family
And though I know that you’re no further than a call away
I need to see your face–a call could never be the same

12. When the Leaves by Ingrid Michaelson

Yes, Ingrid made the list twice. She’s an all-time favorite in our house, and we were seriously considering naming our baby girl “Ingrid”—until we couldn’t think of a nickname better than “Ing” or “Rid.” This song is just simple and beautiful:

When the snow comes down
And it covers this lonely town
Then I miss your kiss

Get the Spotify Playlist: Unknown Christmas Songs

If you use Spotify, head over to this Spotify playlist and click the heart button to add these alternative Christmas songs to your own Spotify library. Bonus: As I discover new uncommon songs for Christmas, you’ll get extra songs not yet featured in this post!

Your Turn

Do you know of any other awesome alternative Christmas songs? A better nickname for Ingrid? Share it in a comment below!

The post 12 Uncommon Christmas Songs That Will Become Your New Favorites appeared first on Happy You, Happy Family.