Navigating the world of foster care is a journey filled with a myriad of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. As someone who has experienced this firsthand, I understand the profound impact it can have on individuals and families. Music has always been a powerful medium for expressing the complex feelings associated with foster care.
In this playlist, I have compiled a list of 20 songs that resonate deeply with the foster care experience. These songs capture the essence of hope, resilience, and the search for belonging, offering solace and understanding to those who have walked this path.
Contents
- 1. “i hope your whole life sux” by Blackbear
- 2. “Whoever Finds This, I Love You” by Mac Davis
- 3. “Being Boiled” by The Human League
- 4. “These Old Bones” by Dolly Parton
- 5. “Orphan of the Road” by Johnny Cash
- 6. “Guardian” by Alanis Morissette
- 7. “The Chimbley Sweep” by The Decemberists
- 8. “Joshua” by Dolly Parton
- 9. “Orphan Train” by Lee Ann Womack
- 10. “Renegade” by Eminem and Jay-Z
- 11. “The Magician” by Jason Isbell
- 12. “Iceberg” by 10cc
- 13. “If No One Ever Marries Me” by Natalie Merchant
- 14. “ATM” by J. Cole
- 15. “Motherless Children” by The Carter Family
- 16. “Orphan Girl” by Emmylou Harris
- 17. “Passing Through” by Leonard Cohen
- 18. “Headlights” by Eminem
- 19. “Guardian Angel” by The Judds
- 20. “Tron Cat” by Tyler, the Creator
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “i hope your whole life sux” by Blackbear
Blackbear’s song “i hope your whole life sux” is a hip-hop and R&B track that delves into themes of vulnerability, hurt, and spite.
The lyrics express the emotional turmoil of a person dealing with the aftermath of a painful relationship. The narrator oscillates between feelings of loneliness, self-doubt, and a desire for revenge, hoping that the person who hurt them experiences similar pain. The song’s tone is both confessional and confrontational, capturing the complexity of emotions involved in dealing with personal hurt and betrayal.
Although the song does not explicitly address foster care, its themes of abandonment and emotional struggle can resonate with those who have experienced instability in family relationships.
2. “Whoever Finds This, I Love You” by Mac Davis
“Whoever Finds This, I Love You” by Mac Davis tells the poignant story of a young orphan girl yearning for love and connection.
The song describes how the girl writes a note expressing her longing for love and releases it into the wind. An elderly man eventually finds the note and is touched by her plea. The narrative highlights the deep sense of loneliness and desire for belonging that many children in foster care experience.
Through its heartfelt lyrics, the song emphasizes the universal need for love and the impact of small gestures of kindness.
3. “Being Boiled” by The Human League
“Being Boiled” by The Human League is a synth-pop track that addresses themes of exploitation and cruelty, using the metaphor of sericulture (silk production) to critique societal indifference to suffering.
The song’s lyrics reference the boiling of silk moth larvae, drawing a parallel to the mistreatment of orphans and vulnerable individuals. The mention of orphans in the song underscores the broader theme of neglect and the moral implications of ignoring the suffering of the defenseless.
Although not directly about foster care, the song’s message about the consequences of apathy and exploitation can be related to the challenges faced by children in foster systems.
4. “These Old Bones” by Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s “These Old Bones” is a narrative song that explores themes of mysticism, heritage, and societal marginalization. The story revolves around an elderly woman living in a remote mountain area who possesses the ability to foresee the future by reading bones. She is both revered and ostracized by her community.
The song reveals that the narrator shares this gift, having inherited it from the old woman, who was once her mother before being taken away by authorities. This revelation adds depth to the song, highlighting themes of loss, reunion, and the enduring nature of familial bonds.
While the song is not explicitly about foster care, it touches on themes of separation and the impact of societal judgment on family dynamics, which are relevant to the foster care experience.
5. “Orphan of the Road” by Johnny Cash
“Orphan of the Road” by Johnny Cash is a song that tells the story of a cowboy who meets a carnie queen during a three-day stand shared by a carny show and a rodeo.
The song captures the transient and often lonely existence of individuals living on the road, drawing parallels to the experiences of orphans who lack a permanent home or family. The narrative reflects Cash’s empathy for the downtrodden and those living on the fringes of society, a recurring theme in his music.
While the song does not explicitly focus on foster care, its themes of rootlessness and searching for belonging resonate with the experiences of children in foster care systems.
6. “Guardian” by Alanis Morissette
“Guardian” by Alanis Morissette is a rock song from her album Havoc and Bright Lights. The song is a heartfelt promise of protection and care, where Morissette vows to be a guardian and protector for someone special, likely inspired by her role as a mother.
The lyrics emphasize themes of commitment, empathy, and the desire to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Morissette’s portrayal of guardianship can be seen as a metaphor for the protective role that foster parents or guardians play in the lives of children who need care and stability.
7. “The Chimbley Sweep” by The Decemberists
“The Chimbley Sweep” by The Decemberists is a darkly humorous folk song about a young orphaned boy who works as a chimney sweep. The song paints a vivid picture of the boy’s life in squalor, highlighting the harsh realities faced by orphaned children in historical contexts.
Despite the grim circumstances, the song maintains a playful tone, capturing the innocence and resilience of the boy. The narrative sheds light on the struggles of orphans who must navigate life without the support of a family, drawing attention to the need for systems like foster care to provide care and opportunities for such children.
8. “Joshua” by Dolly Parton
“Joshua” by Dolly Parton is a country song that tells the story of a young girl who ventures to meet a reclusive man named Joshua, who lives in a rundown shack by the railroad tracks. Initially perceived as mean and hostile, Joshua turns out to be kind and welcoming.
The song explores themes of prejudice, friendship, and understanding, as the girl discovers the true nature of Joshua, who becomes a significant figure in her life.
While the song does not directly address foster care, it touches on themes of acceptance and finding family in unexpected places, which are relevant to the foster care experience.
The narrative of overcoming initial judgments to form meaningful connections aligns with the experiences of foster children and families.
9. “Orphan Train” by Lee Ann Womack
“Orphan Train” by Lee Ann Womack is a poignant song that draws inspiration from the historical Orphan Train Movement, which relocated orphaned and homeless children from crowded Eastern cities to foster homes in the rural Midwest between 1854 and 1929.
The lyrics invite those who are broken-hearted to lay down their burdens and find solace, portraying the Orphan Train as a metaphorical journey to a place of acceptance and love.
The song highlights themes of hope, healing, and the search for belonging, resonating deeply with the foster care experience by emphasizing the importance of finding a nurturing environment where one is valued and loved.
10. “Renegade” by Eminem and Jay-Z
“Renegade” by Eminem and Jay-Z is a powerful rap collaboration that addresses themes of defiance, resilience, and social criticism. The song features both artists reflecting on their struggles and the challenges they have faced, particularly in relation to societal expectations and criticism.
While “Renegade” does not specifically focus on foster care, its themes of overcoming adversity and asserting one’s identity can resonate with those who have experienced the foster care system.
The song emphasizes the importance of self-determination and the ability to rise above difficult circumstances.
11. “The Magician” by Jason Isbell
“The Magician” by Jason Isbell is a reflective song that explores themes of loneliness and the transient nature of relationships. The narrator likens himself to a magician, capable of making people and connections disappear, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the emotional distance and isolation experienced by those who struggle to maintain lasting relationships.
Although not directly about foster care, the song’s exploration of loneliness and the desire for meaningful connections can resonate with individuals who have experienced instability in their family lives.
12. “Iceberg” by 10cc
“Iceberg” by 10cc is a song that delves into themes of alienation and identity. The lyrics describe a character who feels out of place and disconnected from society, using the metaphor of an iceberg to convey the hidden depths of their emotions.
The song mentions being an orphan, which adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the character’s search for belonging and understanding.
“Iceberg” captures the emotional struggles of those who feel isolated and misunderstood, themes that are relevant to the experiences of children in foster care systems.
13. “If No One Ever Marries Me” by Natalie Merchant
“If No One Ever Marries Me” by Natalie Merchant is a song that reflects on themes of loneliness and the societal expectations of marriage. The song is based on a poem by Laurence Alma-Tadema, which Merchant set to music. The lyrics express a sense of acceptance and contentment with the possibility of remaining unmarried, while also highlighting the desire for companionship.
Although not directly about foster care, the song’s exploration of solitude and the longing for connection can resonate with individuals who have experienced the emotional challenges of growing up without a stable family environment.
14. “ATM” by J. Cole
“ATM” by J. Cole, from his album KOD, addresses the themes of materialism and the addictive nature of money. The song critiques the societal obsession with wealth and the emptiness that can accompany it. Through vivid imagery and a satirical tone, J. Cole explores how the pursuit of money can lead to a loss of self and genuine connections.
While “ATM” does not specifically focus on foster care, its themes of searching for fulfillment and the impact of external pressures can be related to the experiences of those in foster care, who may face similar struggles in finding their identity and place in the world.
15. “Motherless Children” by The Carter Family
“Motherless Children” by The Carter Family is a traditional folk song that poignantly captures the hardships faced by children who have lost their mothers.
The lyrics emphasize the emotional and practical difficulties that motherless children endure, highlighting the profound impact of losing a parental figure. This song resonates strongly with the foster care experience, as it underscores the vulnerability and challenges faced by children who are separated from their families.
The Carter Family’s rendition brings a heartfelt and empathetic perspective to the plight of these children, making it a fitting addition to a playlist about foster care.
16. “Orphan Girl” by Emmylou Harris
“Orphan Girl” by Emmylou Harris is a song that beautifully conveys the feelings of isolation and longing for familial connection experienced by an orphan. Written by Gillian Welch and featured on Harris’s album Wrecking Ball, the song’s lyrics speak to the absence of family ties and the hope of reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife.
The narrator expresses a deep yearning for belonging and the comfort of a family, themes that are central to the foster care experience.
“Orphan Girl” captures the emotional journey of those who have grown up without a traditional family structure, making it a poignant and relevant choice for a playlist centered on foster care.
17. “Passing Through” by Leonard Cohen
“Passing Through” by Leonard Cohen is a reflective song that explores themes of transience, human experience, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell stories of historical and biblical figures, such as Jesus and Adam, who are depicted as “passing through” life and its challenges. The song emphasizes the fleeting nature of life and the importance of love over hate.
Although not explicitly about foster care, the theme of being an “orphan” and the transient nature of existence can resonate with the experiences of those in foster care, highlighting the search for belonging and the impact of temporary connections.
18. “Headlights” by Eminem
“Headlights” by Eminem, featuring Nate Ruess, is a deeply personal song in which Eminem apologizes to his mother for the harsh criticisms he made in his earlier music. The song reflects on their tumultuous relationship, acknowledging the pain and misunderstandings that have occurred. Eminem expresses regret for the estrangement and recognizes his mother’s efforts to raise him as a single parent.
The song also references his younger brother Nathan’s removal to foster care, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. “Headlights” is ultimately about forgiveness and the desire for reconciliation, themes that are relevant to the foster care experience as it touches upon family dynamics and healing.
19. “Guardian Angel” by The Judds
“Guardian Angel” by The Judds is a heartfelt song that speaks to the protective and nurturing role of a guardian figure. The lyrics express gratitude and appreciation for someone who provides guidance and support, akin to a guardian angel watching over them.
While the song does not specifically address foster care, its themes of protection, care, and the importance of having a supportive figure in one’s life align with the experiences of children in foster care who rely on guardians for stability and love.
20. “Tron Cat” by Tyler, the Creator
“Tron Cat” by Tyler, the Creator is a provocative and controversial song that features dark and aggressive themes. Known for his shock-value lyrics, Tyler explores themes of rebellion, anger, and internal conflict.
The song does not directly relate to foster care, but its exploration of identity and the struggle to find one’s place in the world can resonate with individuals who have experienced instability in their family lives.
The raw expression of emotion in “Tron Cat” highlights the challenges of navigating complex emotions, a theme that can be relevant to those who have been in foster care.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.
Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.