20 Songs About Thanksgiving

Exploring songs about Thanksgiving reveals a rich tapestry of tunes that capture the essence of gratitude, family, and the changing seasons. This selection spans genres and eras, offering listeners a soundtrack that complements the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season.

1. “Almost Thanksgiving Day” by Graham Parker

“Almost Thanksgiving Day” by Graham Parker dives into the heart of the holiday with a unique mix of anticipation and reflection. The song crafts a narrative that resonates with anyone who has felt the mixed emotions of excitement and nostalgia as Thanksgiving approaches, highlighting the universal theme of looking forward to gathering with loved ones while taking a moment to reflect on the past year.

2. “Thank You” by Dido

“Thank You” by Dido epitomizes the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartfelt expression of gratitude and appreciation. This track beautifully encapsulates the essence of giving thanks not for material possessions, but for the people and moments that bring joy and comfort to our lives, mirroring the central theme of Thanksgiving—gratitude.

3. “Autumn Leaves” by Nat King Cole

“Autumn Leaves” by Nat King Cole evokes the beauty and poignancy of fall, serving as a powerful metaphor for change and reflection, themes closely tied to the Thanksgiving season. Cole’s timeless voice adds a layer of nostalgia and introspection, embracing the transition of seasons as a moment to pause and give thanks for the past, while preparing for the future.

4. “Thanksgiving Theme” by Vince Guaraldi Trio

The “Thanksgiving Theme” by Vince Guaraldi Trio captures the essence of Thanksgiving through its warm, inviting instrumental melodies, setting the perfect ambiance for the holiday. This piece, with its seasonal nuances and comforting tones, encapsulates the gentle, reflective mood of Thanksgiving, making it an essential backdrop for gatherings that celebrate gratitude and togetherness.

5. “Macy’s Day Parade” by Green Day

“Macy’s Day Parade” by Green Day provides a poignant commentary on consumerism, contrasting the commercial aspects of the holiday season, including Thanksgiving, with the more profound themes of hope and redemption. Through this song, Green Day invites listeners to reflect on the true values that should be celebrated during the holidays, questioning societal priorities and offering a deeper, introspective look at what the season should represent.

6. “Thankful” by Kelly Clarkson

“Thankful” by Kelly Clarkson resonates beautifully with the Thanksgiving theme of expressing gratitude. With her powerful pop vocals, Clarkson delivers a message of gratefulness that transcends the specific details of our lives, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging and cherishing the people and experiences that enrich our existence.

7. “Alice’s Restaurant” by Arlo Guthrie

“Alice’s Restaurant” by Arlo Guthrie stands out as a narrative folk song that weaves a tale intimately connected to Thanksgiving, turning it into a holiday tradition for many listeners. Its engaging storytelling and humor highlight a unique perspective on the Thanksgiving season, blending social commentary with a personal story that begins on Thanksgiving Day, making it a significant piece in the holiday’s musical landscape.

8. “Thanksgiving Prayer” by Johnny Cash

“Thanksgiving Prayer” by Johnny Cash captures the essence of Thanksgiving’s reflective nature through its heartfelt expression of counting blessings. Cash’s deep, resonant voice and the country-infused melody provide a solemn backdrop for giving thanks, making this song a poignant reminder of the holiday’s deeper meaning and the importance of gratitude in our lives.

9. “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge

“We Are Family” by Sister Sledge encapsulates Thanksgiving’s focus on togetherness and unity with its uplifting message and energetic celebration of family bonds. This disco classic turns any Thanksgiving gathering into a vibrant celebration, reminding us of the joy and strength found in coming together with loved ones.

10. “Be Thankful” by Natalie Cole

“Be Thankful” by Natalie Cole serves as a soulful reminder of the core message of Thanksgiving, emphasizing positivity and gratitude. Cole’s smooth, rich vocals breath life into the simple yet powerful premise that being thankful transcends the holiday season, resonating as a timeless call to appreciate life’s blessings.

11. “Home” by Phillip Phillips

“Home” by Phillip Phillips captures the emotional essence of returning to family and home, a journey many undertake during Thanksgiving. Its uplifting melody and reassuring lyrics evoke a sense of warmth and belonging, perfectly encapsulating the feelings of comfort and love that define the holiday’s spirit of homecoming.

12. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young

“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young beautifully captures the essence of gathering and appreciation that is so deeply tied to Thanksgiving. With its gentle melody and imagery of the full moon illuminating the harvest, the song evokes a sense of togetherness and gratitude for the bounties of the earth, mirroring the Thanksgiving tradition of celebrating the harvest’s yield.

13. “Biscuits” by Kacey Musgraves

“Biscuits” by Kacey Musgraves offers a light-hearted take on the simplicity of life and the importance of gratitude, fitting perfectly with the Thanksgiving vibe. With its catchy country rhythm and humorous lyrics, the song encourages listeners to mind their own business and appreciate the small things, echoing the holiday’s spirit of thankfulness and joy.

14. “Thanksgiving Song” by Mary Chapin Carpenter

“Thanksgiving Song” by Mary Chapin Carpenter is a folk tune that directly celebrates the themes of gratitude and harvest, embodying the essence of Thanksgiving. Its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody invite listeners to reflect on the blessings of the season, making it a poignant anthem for the holiday’s spirit of celebration and thanks.

15. “Thankful” by Celine Dion

“Thankful” by Celine Dion combines powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics to echo the sentiments of Thanksgiving, emphasizing gratitude. Dion’s emotive delivery and the song’s stirring pop arrangement serve as a beautiful reminder of the importance of giving thanks, perfectly capturing the spirit of reflection and appreciation that defines the holiday.

16. “Cooking Up Something Good” by Mac DeMarco

“Cooking Up Something Good” by Mac DeMarco features a casual, homely feel that parallels the warmth and comfort of a family Thanksgiving gathering. The song’s laid-back indie vibe and inviting lyrics evoke images of a kitchen bustling with activity and the anticipation of sharing a meal, capturing the essence of togetherness and familial bonds during the holiday.

17. “Family Business” by Ye (Kanye West)

“Family Business” by Ye (Kanye West) delves into the complex dynamics of family, highlighting the importance of familial connections, a theme that resonates deeply during Thanksgiving. Through its introspective hip-hop rhythm and candid lyrics, the song acknowledges the imperfections and challenges within family relationships, while ultimately celebrating the unbreakable bonds that tie us together during the holidays.

18. “I’ve Got Plenty to be Thankful For” by Bing Crosby

“I’ve Got Plenty to be Thankful For” by Bing Crosby is a Thanksgiving standard that resonates deeply with the holiday’s themes, brought to life by Crosby’s timeless voice. This classic tune, rich with expressions of gratitude, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Thanksgiving, reminding us of the many blessings we have to be thankful for.

19. “Sweet Potato Pie” by Ray Charles & James Taylor

“Sweet Potato Pie” by Ray Charles & James Taylor serves as a delightful metaphor for the simple pleasures of Thanksgiving, with its celebration of comfort food. This harmonious collaboration between two music legends encapsulates the warmth and joy of holiday gatherings, highlighting how something as simple as a beloved dish can bring people together in gratitude and celebration.

20. “Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold

“Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold is a heartwarming tribute to friendship that doubles as a Thanksgiving ode to gratefulness for those who enrich our lives. Its uplifting melody and sincere lyrics celebrate the invaluable gift of true companionship, embodying the Thanksgiving spirit of appreciation and thankfulness towards the people who stand by us.