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Since I last posted my list of 15 Adults Songs That Make Great Kid Tunes over a year ago, people have come to this site for that page more than anything else I’ve written.

I’d like to think that parents are wanting to expose their children to some kick ass music and legendary musicians at an early age.

But what it really means is that there are a TON of parents out there that are starving for music suggestions that won’t make them throw their devices streaming Twinkle Twinkle Little Star for the 400^th time out the car window.

I hear you, Parental Units of the Internet! And I am here to help you out.  If you didn’t get a great playlist the first time around, here are 15 more adult songs that make great kids music.

Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder

With a great groove, who can resist this classic by Stevie Wonder?  Not only is it a great dance tune, it’s also a crash course in the legends of jazz music.

Celebration by Kool & The Gang

I’m sure this dates me more than I should broadcast, but I can remember jamming out to this infectious song on the school bus in Elementary school on the way to Field Day.  FIELD DAY.  Do they even do that anymore?

On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons

I jumped on the Imagine Dragons bandwagon a long time ago and my kids love this band as well.  Then we saw the Warner Bros. preview of their new movie Island of Lemurs: Madagascar, and now my kids jump from sofa to love seat like an ebullient, endangered jungle creature when this song comes on.  So…there’s that.

 

Three Little Birds by Bob Marley

This song is the ultimate lullaby.  I sang this classic to both of my kids when I was pregnant, and then again when I brought them home.  And as an adult, every time I hear it, I’m reminded to slow down and stop fretting.

Mayor of Simpleton by XTC

I’m introducing a little New Wave music to the list by way of this fun song by XTC.  It’s meaning is simple, and, given the title, would you expect any less?  Because sometimes all we need to know is love.

Brave by Sara Bareilles

I’ve been singing the song’s chorus to my daughter when I see her acting skittish. Nervous.  Apprehensive to join a new crowd or activity.  Because beneath Sara Bareilles’ gorgeous vocals is the empowering message of personal strength and courage.

Birdhouse In Your Soul by They Might Be Giants

This was one of the first non-children’s music songs we introduced my son to.  It felt like a breakthrough.  An epiphany.  We could actually listen to songs we liked too!  And still, after all these years, this song still makes us all happy.

Shake Your Rump by the Beastie Boys

Okay, I realize that there are a couple of lyrics here that may raise some eyebrows.  I’m also hoping that your children are like mine and can’t make out most of the words to the Beastie Boys’ raps to begin with.  Because it took me about 15 years to make them out myself.  But this song has an awesome beat that my kids can’t refuse to dance to.

Upside Down by Jack Johnson

Technically, this easy-going song comes from the Curious George soundtrack and not necessarily an “adult” song.  But this Jack Johnson tune sounds like other songs of his, making it more tolerable to an adult.  It’s a great one to play while doing homework, cleaning the house, and enjoying some sunshine.

Praise You by Fatboy Slim

Sure, the chorus sample is from a civil right’s movement protest song, but if taken at face value, this is just a fun song with a terrific beat that everyone can groove to.  And if you’re lucky, I’ll show you my back spin.

Into Your Arms by The Lemonheads

I know a cuddly preschooler or two who would say this hit by The Lemonheads is their theme song.

 

This Must Be the Place by Talking Heads

I can’t sing this song around my children without breaking down in to tears as David Byrne sings “And you love me till my heart stops, love me till I’m dead, eyes that light up, eyes that look through you.” Because my kids?  They are Home and where I want to be.

Our House by Madness

From the first distinguishable guitar notes of this 80’s classic, I’m up and dancing.   And so are my kids.  I loved this song as a kid.  It has a catchy hook and fun energy that appeals to young and old alike.  Or at least, to this old lady.

 

Apache by the Sugar Hill Gang

My kids were first introduced to this song on a Just Dance Wii game, and since then have watched this scene from Fresh Prince of Bel Air, which is only one of the Best. Scenes. Ever.  We can’t help but boogie to the boogety beat when this comes on.

Lullabye by Ben Folds Five

What parent hasn’t said “Goodnight, goodnight, sweet baby” in the wee hours of the morning? I love Ben Folds’ voice on this song.  And how often do you get to sing the name James Earl Jones in a lyric?

 

 

What adult songs would you contribute to this list? I’d love to hear them!