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While there isn’t a rulebook per se for becoming a grandma, there are certain things that each one should know. The perfect speed for rocking in the chair? Check. An arsenal of dessert recipes? Double check. What about a stellar technique for backrubs? You know that grandma has that, too!
It isn’t necessarily grandma-related, but most grandmothers should also know these 13 hummable tunes that you will want to share with your grandkids:
1. “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland (from “The Wizard of Oz”)
We may live in a world dominated by computer-animated movies, but I still find “The Wizard of Oz” to be one of the most magical films ever! Not only were the sets lovely and the story heartwarming, but the music – especially “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – was catchy and unforgettable.
2. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
It doesn’t get any better than “What a Wonderful World.” From its uplifting lyrics to Armstrong’s distinctive raspy voice, this song is a tribute to the beauty of existence and the simple pleasures of life. (Believe me: The world can use more of the above!)
3. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
Back in my day, when love songs filled the airwaves, “Stand By Me” was the anthem that spoke of loyalty and being there for one another. Picture this: dancing under a starlit sky with that special someone, this song playing in the background. Talk about a blast from the past.
4. “Yesterday” by The Beatles
Ah, The Beatles – The band that changed the course of music forever. “Yesterday” tugs at the heartstrings, reminding us of times gone by and the fleeting nature of moments. Each time I hum along, I’m taken on a trip down memory lane and think of the could-have-beens and should-have-beens. How about you?
5. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
I loved this song when I was young and love it now that I am young at heart! 🙂 A classic that never goes out of style, “Unchained Melody” boasts a haunting melody and passionate lyrics, making it an all-time favorite. Play it on a quiet evening, and it’s almost as if you’re back in those days, waiting for your loved one to return.
6. “At Last” by Etta James
When Etta James belts out “At Last,” it feels like a celebration of every time something you’ve longed for finally comes to be. That first cup of tea in the morning, seeing your grandchild take their first steps, or reuniting with a long-lost friend – this unforgettable tune encapsulates the joy of cherished moments.
7. “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” by Elvis Presley
You can’t go wrong with anything, Elvis, but this one is somehow even more special than the others – and that is saying something! When Elvis croons this tune, it feels like a heart-to-heart conversation. It’s all about the magic of unexpected love, a sentiment that, I believe, each one of us has felt at some point in our lives.
8. “My Girl” by The Temptations
I used to sing this to my daughters, and now I get to sing it to my granddaughters – it holds such a special place in my heart! It’s a tune that screams happiness, contentment, and the kind of love that makes you want to dance on the streets.
9. “You Are My Sunshine” by Jimmie Davis
No songs I sang to my kids and grandkids are as iconic as “You Are My Sunshine.” (Is this one of your go-tos, too?) To me, this song is the musical equivalent of that warm, fuzzy blanket you wrap yourself in on cold nights, as it’s simple, sweet, and an eternal reminder of the special ones who light up our lives.
10. “Singing in the Rain” by Gene Kelly
Oh, the sheer joy of this song and this movie, as it captures the spirit of making the best of a rainy situation (literally!). Much like a grandma who’d turn a gloomy day into an indoor adventure for her grands, this song is about finding your sunshine.
11. “Moon River” by Andy Williams (from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”)
They don’t make movies (or songs!) like they used to, as evidenced by the previously mentioned “Singing in the Rain” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” While the movie is lovely, the music, a la “Moon River,” makes it that much better.
12. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
Old Blue Eyes! Sinatra’s voice has a way of making any evening feel like a classy affair. This song? It’s a journey, a dream, an aspiration – all rolled into one delightful melody. Swoon…
13. “Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel
I apologize for ending this list more dramatically, but this Simon & Garfunkel classic deserves some recognition, too. For those quiet moments of introspection, this track is perfection, as it’s a deep dive into thoughts, feelings, and the silent spaces in between.
Conclusion
These tunes are more than just melodies – they’re memories, emotions, and sentiments that capture big and small moments. So, the next time you’re with your grandkids, why not take a trip down memory lane and share these timeless classics?
