Putting Together A Family Event Playlist?
Making a playlist that appeals to the whole family, from your jazz-age grandparents to your EDM-loving nieces and nephews, can seem like a tall order. However, countless older bangers still have a universal appeal, either because of their timeless message or their cultural revival in movies or on social media. Here are 20 older songs that transcend generations, appealing to everyone in the family.
1. Dreams by Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac released "Dreams" in the 1970s, but it just keeps coming back. It was number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1977, then again in 2020 thanks to TikTok. It doesn't seem to matter how old you are; this song just hits.
Warner Bros. Records on Wikimedia
2. Happy by Pharrell Williams
We can't imagine a single person being offended by Pharrell's 2014 song "Happy." It's infectious, energetic, makes you want to dance, and is easy to sing along to.
3. Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles
The Beatles are one of those bands that transcends generations. Amazingly, "Here Comes The Sun" was originally released as a B-side, but gained popularity over time. Now it's beloved by all generations, especially in springtime.
4. Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder's "Sir Duke" is a high-energy and joyful track that lends itself well to shaking your booty on the dancefloor, no matter how old you are. It was written as a tribute to Duke Ellington and jazz music.
5. Burning Down The House by Talking Heads
"Burning Down The House" by Talking Heads is a timeless song that will never stop being fun. Band leader and main songwriter David Byrne has said the song is about destroying something safe that holds you back, a message most people can relate to.
6. Twist and Shout by The Beatles
Twist and Shout is a 1963 song by The Beatles. Despite being over 60 years old, it still doesn't sound dated and continues to be a mainstay on wedding playlists.
United Press International on Wikimedia
7. What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
"What a Wonderful World" is a song about the beauty of life, love, and the promise of a better future. It's a timeless message communicated through Louis's signature rasp.
World-Telegram staff photographer on Wikimedia
8. Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
When will people stop playing Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds" on vacation? The answer is never. The optimistic message that "every little thing is gonna be all right" and the classic reggae vibes will never go out of style.
9. Imagine by John Lennon
John Lennon's "Imagine" is a song about peace and unity, things that have perhaps become even more relevant over time. The song's accessible and optimistic lyrics make it a universal hit.
10. Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers
No song is as fun to belt out as The Righteous Brothers' "Unchained Melody." This level of heart and drama just doesn't exist in modern songs.
11. Let's Stay Together by Al Green
Al Green's 1972 hit "Let's Stay Together" is smooth and soulful with lyrics that anyone who's ever been in love or even thought about being in love can relate to. It's been covered countless times, making it recognized across generations, but nothing beats Al's warm vocal delivery.
Mike Douglas Show on Wikimedia
12. Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison
"Brown Eyed Girl" is a song that feels forever young and modern thanks to its catchy, feel-good melody. It's about nostalgia, young love, and the carefree days of youth, themes everyone can relate to.
Warner Bros. Records on Wikimedia
13. Stand By Me by Ben E. King
"Stand By Me" feels just as powerful today as it did when it was released in 1961. It's about loyalty, support, and love; themes that are universal and timeless.
14. Rocket Man by Elton John
Elton John's most iconic song, "Rocket Man," is a lively banger that continues to be loved by younger generations. Elton's soaring vocals, masterful piano, and catchy chorus make it an instant hit at family gatherings.
15. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars
"Uptown Funk" is one of the rare songs that manages to sound at once retro and modern. It's from 2014, but it could just as easily be a 6'60shit. It's a playful party staple that's not going anywhere.
16. Mr. Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra
"Mr. Blue Sky" by Electric Light Orchestra is almost too positive, but that's what makes it so fun. It's a natural mood-lifter that's appealing to all generations. It was featured in many movies over the years, including Guardians of the Galaxy, giving it a cultural revival.
Yuri Dekovic Escobar on Wikimedia
17. Stayin' Alive by The Bee Gees
"Stayin' Alive" is one of those songs that finds new life with each generation. It has an irresistible groove, empowering lyrics, and is an enduring disco anthem.
18. (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
"(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding is a song about aimlessness, stagnation, and the struggle to find meaning, something every human being has experienced, young and old. Aside from the lyrics, it's a smooth, soulful, and emotional classic.
19. Respect by Aretha Franklin
"Respect" is an empowering anthem that continues to inspire generations. It was a defining song of the civil rights and feminist movements, but its message endures and resonates across genders and ages.
20. Dream A Little Dream by Ella Fitzgerald
"Dream A Little Dream" by Ella Fitzgerald is the ultimate romantic anthem. It continues to enchant listeners of all ages with its tender lyrics and soft jazz melody.
