By Miriam Stansbury
Music and divinity have shared a dance floor for centuries. Sometimes it’s a hymn that takes us back to Sunday mornings with our parents. Other times, it’s a rock anthem, an R&B classic or a song that makes us stop and think about something bigger than ourselves.
Here are 10 tracks to take you back this Thanksgiving season.
1. “99” — Toto (1979)
This soft-rock favorite, inspired by the film THX 1138, has a melody and a number that fits this month’s theme. The song is about a relationship falling apart, proving that even a catchy tune with 99 in the title can leave us thinking about life’s complicated turns.
2. “Amazing Grace” — Traditional hymn
Written by John Newton in the 18th century, this hymn has become a musical symbol of redemption, and second chances. Its message crosses generations and reaches beyond the sanctuary.
3. “Oh Happy Day” — Edwin Hawkins Singers (1968)
With its gospel groove, this recording became an international hit. It celebrates spiritual metamorphosis with enough energy to make even a quiet listener tap a foot.
4. “People Get Ready” — The Impressions (1965)
Curtis Mayfield wrote this soul classic with spiritual imagery and a message of hope. Its invitation to prepare for a better tomorrow still resonates with listeners of all ages.
5. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” — Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
Sometimes faith arrives through another person. This Grammy-winning classic brings the comfort of having someone stand beside you when life gets difficult.
6. “What a Wonderful World” — Louis Armstrong (1967)
Armstrong’s voice turns ordinary scenes, green trees, blue skies and people loving one another, into reminders that beauty can be found everyday.
7. “Let It Be” — The Beatles (1970)
Paul McCartney’s dream of his late mother, Mary, was the motivation for this song offers a message of acceptance when answers are hard to find.
8. “Easy Like Sunday Morning” – The Commodores (1977)
With its fuzzed-out guitar riff and sound, this R&B hit puts thoughts of the afterlife with a beat made for turning up the volume.
9. “I Can Only Imagine” — MercyMe (1999)
This contemporary Christian hit asks what it might feel like to stand in the presence of God. Its question has touched millions of listeners, including people who don’t regularly listen to Christian music.
10. “You Raise Me Up” — Josh Groban (2003)
A soaring vocal performance and a message about being lifted past our own limitations make this a natural fit for a playlist about hope and the human spirit.
