In the words of Shirley Caesar, “I got beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, lamb, rams, hogs, dogs, beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, chicken, turkeys, rabbit—you name it.” Whatever you are serving this Thanksgiving, you can’t just have the football game playing in the background. Every event needs the perfect playlist, and Turkey Day is no exception. From heavy hitters like J. Cole to those who love a little gospel like Chance the Rapper, we broke down the must-have songs to turn up to as you add your yams and mac and cheese combo to your plate.
“Rain Down on Me” by GloRilla ft. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore
GloRilla, on her new album GLORIOUS, remixed Kirk Franklin’s classic gospel song “Melodies From Heaven” with her signature Memphis twist.
“Thanksgiving” by Cordae
As always, the rapper brought the vibes and a story to tell about bringing his girl back home for the holidays (for better or for worse).
“Grateful” by Armani White
Instead of talking his shit like on “BILLIE EILISH,” White expressed his thankfulness for everything he has and everyone in his life.
“Yamz” by Devin Morrison and Masego
The track has become a Thanksgiving favorite like the side dish that even your grandma might groove along to.
“A Plate Of Collard Greens” by Daylyt and J. Cole
The duo balled out like Jordan and Pippen on a track that proved to be food for the soul — and one of J. Cole’s strongest verses so far this year.
“Soul Food” by Goodie Mob
There’s nothing like the classics from hip-hop legends to get you into the holiday spirit.
“Moment 4 Life” by Nicki Minaj and Drake
Drake and Nicki Minaj delivered on lyrics and visuals that are perfect for carving the turkey.
“God’s Plan” by Drake
A smash hit that is a reminder to give back and show love beyond just Thanksgiving week.
“Thankful” by DJ Khaled, Lil Wayne and Jeremiah
The king of motivation obviously has to be on your Thanksgiving playlist.
“Hey Mama” by Ye
Ye, on the Late Registration track, shouted out Donda West and created a song to celebrate other mothers around the world.
“Love Yourz” by J. Cole
If you and your cousins are about to go take “The Walk,” keep this song ready on standby.
“Blessings” by Chance the Rapper, Ty Dolla $ign, Anderson .Paak, BJ The Chicago Kid, & Raury
You could hear this song at a Thanksgiving celebration or even your next Sunday service.
“So Much More” by Big Sean
Play this nostalgic Sean Don track as you add “so much more” to your already loaded-up dinner plate.
“I Wanna Thank Me” by Snoop Dogg and Mark Knox
Show some love to yourself for making it through the year so far with help from everyone’s fav Snoop Doggy Dog.
“Wake Up” by Big K.R.I.T.
You have probably already been wide awake waiting on the food to finally be done — but Big K.R.I.T. in the song serves up some positivity.
“Thankful” by Culture Jam and Lil Uzi Vert
Sure, Thanksgiving is more of a football holiday — but Culture Jam from NBA player (and scary laugher) Kawhi Leonard gave us a new track from Uzi as we waited for EA2.
“Look What You’ve Done” by Drake
Despite all of the Drizzy craziness this year, this song from Take Care is still GOATed.
“Tears of Joy” by Rick Ross ft. Cee-Lo Green
Add some luxury Miami vibes to the Thanksgiving dinner as Ross talks about his come-up in the rap game.
“Family Business” by Ye
Get a little help from Ye to honor those who are no longer with us or are unable to be at the dinner table this year.
“Thank You” by Busta Rhymes, Q Tip, Ye, & Lil Wayne
While not delivering his verses at “Look at Me Now” speed, Rhymes with the help from other rap elite created a track reminiscent of early hip-hop.
“GONE GONE/THANK YOU” by Tyler, the Creator
When Tyler releases a two-part song, you already know it’s going to be hot.
“Gravy n’ Biscuits” by Injury Reserve
Just like the signature Southern comfort food, “everything cool” with this song in the rotation.
“LOVE.” by Kendrick Lamar
Every playlist needs something for the couples out there, and who doesn’t want to hear K. Dot get into his romantic bag?
“Blessings” by Nipsey Hussle
On the track, Nipsey is asking for God’s help to avoid blowing the bag, protection from those trying to steal his bag, and for him to be able to continue chasing the bag.
“Bubblin” by Anderson .Paak
The Cali native can provide the soundtrack to a “cheers” to celebrate another successful Thanksgiving.
