Nothing kicks off a holiday dinner like a great playlist. Music feeds the soul and gives us that feel-good energy providing an atmosphere for festive gatherings and holiday celebrations. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and as you craft the perfect menu, don’t forget to create the ideal playlist to put the finishing touches on your dinner celebration. Whether lively or relaxing, there are perfect songs you can add to get the party started.

Thinking of creating my own playlist this year, I sat down with Ray Scott, entrepreneur, e-commerce expert, and influencer on what makes the perfect dinner playlist. “It’s a combination of things,” explains Ray. “Dinner parties have this evolution from everyone arriving, to sitting down to dinner, and you want the music to usher everyone in the right vibe.” Rays shared with me his six favorite songs to liven up your Thanksgiving playlist.

 

1​. “Thanksgiving Day”, Ray Davies

U​pbeat yet low-key, this song welcomes your guests in the door with warm holiday vibes. “It’s a fun song without being too imposing,” says Ray. “It’s like a warm family hug on Thanksgiving, reminding all of us why we gather together.”

 

2​. “Thank You Friends”, Big Star

Lots of country-infused, pop guitar “Thank You Friends”  is a song about gratitude and community. “Just like Thanksgiving Day, this song is energetic without being overwhelming,” explains Ray. “It blends well into appetizers by setting a festive mood.”

 

3​. “Harvest Moon”, Neil Young

Continuing with Rock/Americana vibes “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young is a fantastic song to round out your appetizers and usher in a quieter mood for a seated dinner. Ray explains, “Harvest Moon transitions your celebration to the table with rustic musicality and a relaxed mood.”

 

4​. “Autumn in New York”, Diana Krall

“W​hile there are many renditions of this famous song, the version sung by Diana Krall is my favorite for Thanksgiving Dinner,” states Ray. “Smooth like a fine wine; it sets the mood for dinner and cozy food.”

 

5​. “I Could Not Ask for More”, Sara Evans

A​dd this song to your playlist and throw in some romantic country ambiance for the couples at your table. “The holidays often bring people together. It’s not called cuffing season for no reason,” laughs Ray. “I Could Not Ask for More” appreciates the love and highlights a little romance.

 

6​. “We Are Family”, Sisters Sledge

Now that everyone is fed and perhaps had a few drinks, it’s time to get the party started. “Liven up the night before closing out with dessert with some vibrant dance tunes,” says Ray. “What’s better than ‘We Are Family’?” A dance song everyone can get down to the Sister’s Sledge brings out the best of your attendees.

 

P​laylists should be fun, and creating one with these tips in mind makes it one less stressful thing on your to-do list.