Will Smith – “Just the Two of Us”: The Fresh Prince’s Bill Withers cover was dedicated to his first son Willard Christopher Smith III, known as Trey.
Minnie Ripperton – “Loving You”: This song was a lullaby meant to distract her daughter, actress Maya Rudolph, so she could spend time with her husband.
BlackStreet – “Joy”: Teddy Riley, the leader of the quartet wrote this 90s classic, where one of the original members’ daughter was the inspiration.
The Beatles – “Hey Jude”: This Beatles’ classic is dedicated to the late John Lennon’s first born son Julian Lennon.
Lauryn Hill – “To Zion”: Lauryn lovely ballad for her first born from the Grammy-winning The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album.
Madonna – “Little Star”: This gem is dedicated to Madonna’s first-born daughter Lourdes.
Erykah Badu – “Yeyo”: Badu penned this song and dedicated it to her son Seven, whose father is Outkast rapper Andre 3000.
Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely”: Arguably the greatest song ever dedicated to a child. Stevie created “Isn’t She Lovely” for his daughter.
Jay-Z – “Glory”: What motivated Hov to write this touching song? Listen to Blue Ivy Carter at the end of the track and you’ll have your answer.
K-Ci & Jojo – “All My Life”: With his daughter in mind, Jojo created the 90s ballad “All My Life” and it became a crossover hit for the R&B duo.
The Internet has been buzzing this week with Jay-Z’s tribute to newborn baby girl “Glory” hitting the airwaves. While it was great hearing Hov’s daughter Blue Ivy Carter on her first feature, this wasn’t the first time a musical artist has used expressed the joys of parenthood in song. Check out some of theGrio’s favorite tribute songs from a parent to their kids in the slideshow below.
