Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday of the year. In fact, for many, many years, my family has hosted not one, but two Thanksgivings annually. My aunt and uncle host the “real” one in November, and I host a second Thanksgiving in May. Yes, every May for over a decade, I’ve decorated my house for fall, roasted a turkey, and scoured multiple grocery stores trying to find fresh turnips (which, in case you’ve never gone looking, are not easy to acquire in the spring). Why? Because while life is never perfect, there is always—always—so much to be thankful for.
So this Thanksgiving, I’m sharing one possible playlist for the day, should you want to adopt it. From high-energy bops to power you through the prep, to cozy tunes for gathering around the table (where, ideally, no one will mention politics), to reflective songs for after-dinner gratitude, this playlist has it all. Featuring classics, modern hits, and a few hometown favorites—including songs by Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music American Music Honors awardees—it’s an eclectic musical backdrop for laughter, memories, and all kinds of thanksgiving.
Click here to listen on Spotify; read on for my annotations.
Pumpkin pies and Thanksgiving dinner at the home of Mr. Timothy Levy Crouch, a Rogerine Quaker living in Ledyard, Connecticut, 1940. Courtesy Library of Congress.
COOKING & PREP
“Rosalita” – Bruce Springsteen
We’re starting strong. If we’re stuffing the turkey before 9 a.m., we need energy—and Rosalita delivers.
“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” – Kenny Chesney
My vibe while handling raw poultry: calm, carefree, and pretending I’m not worried about salmonella.
“Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
We’re manifesting positivity. Repeat after me: There will be NO political debates today.
“Nothin’ But a Good Time” – Poison
Dancing while basting is encouraged.
“Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
The highway may be jammed with broken heroes, but we won’t let traffic ruin anyone’s mood.
Neffsville, Pennsylvania. Thanksgiving dinner at the house of Earle Landis, 1942. Courtesy Library of Congress.
LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED
“Come On-a My House” – Rosemary Clooney
Guests are arriving—doors are opening, appetizers are out, and the house is buzzing.
“Runaround Sue” – Dion DiMucci
A spirited classic from American Music Honors awardee Dion DiMucci—and a guaranteed mid-playlist energy boost.
“Soul Man” – Sam & Dave
Keep the momentum going with this high-energy feel-good staple from American Music Honors awardee Sam Moore.
“Jack & Diane” – John Mellencamp
An American story-song everyone knows, from another American Music Honors awardee—perfect for multigenerational gatherings.
“American Kids” – Kenny Chesney
A celebration of youthful freedom, small-town life, and the beautifully messy, ordinary magic of growing up in America.
“I’ll Take You There” – The Staples Singers
Joyous, communal, uplifting—American Music Honors awardee Mavis Staples brings what is perhaps one of the most unifying songs ever recorded. A true Thanksgiving centerpiece.
“Dancing in the Dark” – Bruce Springsteen
To close out the social hour: a classic sing-along that keeps spirits high and smiles wide.
Dr. Johnson, president of Howard University saying grace before Thanksgiving dinner, 1942. Courtesy Library of Congress.
DINNER TIME
“Home” – Michael Bublé
Warm, sentimental, and full of that “we’re all together” feeling.
“Harvest Moon” – Neil Young
Romantic, nostalgic, and seasonally perfect—a gentle soundtrack to passing the mashed potatoes.
“Autumn Leaves” – Nat King Cole
A mellow jazz moment as everyone settles into their seats and the room fills with conversation.
“Simple Gifts” – Yo-Yo Ma & Alison Krauss
A quiet, contemplative pause in the evening—a reminder of why we gather.
“Gratitude” – Earth, Wind & Fire
Joyous and celebratory, with a side of funk. This is the heart of Thanksgiving in song form!
Thanksgiving, 1942. Four Coast Guardsmen watch their father, Wayman Fincham, as he carves the turkey. Courtesy Library of Congress.
AFTER-MEAL RELAX & REFLECT
“What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong
The tryptophan is kicking in. We’re sleepy, happy, and reflective.
“My Hometown” – Bruce Springsteen
A nostalgic touch of Americana to close out the holiday meal with gratitude for roots, family, and the places we come from.
“These Days” – Jackson Browne
A reflective, beautifully melodic song from American Music Honors awardee Jackson Browne, “These Days” invites contemplation as the night winds down.
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” – Credence Clearwater Revival
Another thoughtful classic; this one written by American Music Honors awardee John Fogerty.
POSTSCRIPT
“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Darlene Love
From American Music Honors awardee Darlene Love—because if you celebrate Christmas, you know the minute Thanksgiving ends, the Santa season begins.
Whether you’re dancing in the kitchen, sharing stories around the table, or winding down after dessert, this playlist is meant to accompany every moment of your Thanksgiving. From high-energy sing-alongs to quiet, reflective tunes, the music reminds us that the heart of the holiday isn’t just the food—it’s the laughter, the memories, the gratitude, and yes, even the music, we share with the people we love. From my home to yours, wishing everyone a joyous Thanksgiving!
Melissa Ziobro
Director of Curatorial Affairs
Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music
Monmouth University
November 23, 2025