Whether you’re planning a long road trip this summer or just tooling around town with your crew of kids, there’s one key component to a great car ride – the music.
For many of us, those first few moments when we get in the car force us to make a decision – do you listen to what YOU want to listen to, or go with the kids’ music?
Usually, my kids and I land somewhere in between with the latest movie soundtrack, but inevitably, I reach the point where I cannot listen to “Into the Unknown” one. more. time.
Or maybe you’re still in the “Baby Shark” stage of musical parenting, and you just want to listen to a song that doesn’t have a marimba playing in the background.
If you’re looking for new music to listen to that is friendly for kids’ ears and fun for you, too, here are five kids’ bands my kids and I have discovered that ALL OF US love.
(Their music is available on Spotify, iTunes, or whatever music platform you like best.)
Story Pirates
If you’ve never heard of Story Pirates or listened to one of their songs, you need to stop right now and look them up! I have recommended the Story Pirates countless times over the past year, and their music has received the most playtime at our house. In a nutshell, the Story Pirates take original stories that kids submit and turn them into catchy, clever songs that you want to listen to over and over again. I love their mission of encouraging kids to write stories and collaborating with a wide variety of talented musicians to make those stories into songs.
My kids’ favorite song: “Humming”
You’ll like Story Pirates if: you love musical theatre, creativity, or are a human being.
Dogs on Fleas
Dogs on Fleas is a kids’ music trio that writes hopeful, sunny, and optimistic songs sure to turn any grumpy mood around. Their lyrics are full of memorable positive affirmations and their music has a fun electro-funk vibe to it.
My kids’ favorite song: “I’m an Optimist”
You’ll like Dogs on Fleas if: you practice positive affirmations or like a bit of funk in your music.
Keith Munslow
Keith is a storyteller, musician, cartoonist, and comedian for kids. His songs make us laugh, and he always has a funny take on what it’s like to raise kids.
My kids’ favorite song: “Tiny Destroyer”
You’ll like Keith if: you also like Weird Al, or just need a good laugh.
Andrew & Polly
Andrew & Polly are award-winning music makers. They have several seriously catchy original songs (“Grapes”), as well as inventive remakes of classic favorites like “Forever Young” and “Ghostbusters”. Their songs are quirky, smart, and full of heart.
My kids’ favorite song: “Grapes”
You’ll like Andrew & Polly if: your style is a little bit folksy
Seeds Family Worship
For those of you who, like me, are looking for a faith-based kids’ band in your playlist, I highly recommend Seeds Family Worship. Seeds Family Worship writes songs for Bible verses, but this is no Psalty the Singing Songbook. Their songs are upbeat, memorable, and are geared toward the whole family. They organize their albums by topics such as “Courage”, “Faith”, and “Character”.
My kids’ favorite song: “Fishers of Men”
You’ll like Seeds Family Worship if: you’re looking for quality faith-based music to incorporate into your daily listening
So there you have it – five new kids’ bands for you and your family this summer!
Try them out and let me know what you think!
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