Whose Songs Should Be On My Pregnancy, Labour and Birth Playlists? Expert Recommendations

When you’re pregnant, the anticipation of labour and birth can be a mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and preparation. One way to ease the journey is by creating a playlist that resonates with you throughout your antenatal journey—from prenatal care appointments to labour and the birth itself. Whether you’re relaxing at home, attending your antenatal classes, or gearing up for the big day, music can serve as an excellent source of comfort, motivation, and emotional support. Celebrities, in particular, often create soundtracks for their own pregnancies and births, which can offer great inspiration for your own playlist. This article will delve into the songs and artists that should be on your pregnancy care playlist, offering a blend of soothing tunes, empowering anthems, and motivational tracks perfect for your antenatal experience. We’ll explore the music that pregnant celebrities have used, the science behind why music is so important during prenatal care, and tips on how to curate a perfect soundtrack for your labour and birth.

1. Beyoncé – “Lemonade” (2016): Empowerment for Every Stage of Pregnancy

Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” is not only one of the most celebrated albums of all time, but it also serves as a powerful soundtrack for expectant mothers. Beyoncé’s music is known for its emotional depth and bold themes of empowerment, which makes it an excellent choice for your antenatal playlist.

Why Beyoncé’s Music?

• Empowerment and Strength: Songs like “Formation” and “Run the World (Girls)” speak to the empowerment and resilience of women. These anthems can help you feel confident and strong during your pregnancy care journey, as well as give you that extra boost of energy during labour and birth.
• Soothing Ballads: On the flip side, Beyoncé also has soothing, calming ballads like “Sandcastles” and “Pray You Catch Me,” which can provide comfort and relaxation during moments of reflection or prenatal yoga. Celebrity Tie-In: Beyoncé herself has spoken about the influence of music on her personal life, even incorporating it into her own antenatal care rituals. Her influence is a testament to how music can deeply impact our emotions, mindset, and connection with our babies during pregnancy.

2. Sade – “Smooth Operator” (1984): Calm and Peaceful Tunes for Relaxation

During pregnancy, antenatal massage and relaxation are crucial for reducing stress and tension. Sade’s soulful, soothing voice is ideal for creating a calming atmosphere during pregnancy. Her music is gentle, smooth, and full of emotional depth—making it the perfect soundtrack for moments of relaxation.

Why Sade’s Music?

• Relaxation During Pregnancy: Tracks like “Smooth Operator” and “By Your Side” have a relaxing effect, which can help you unwind after a busy day of antenatal appointments or a pregnancy workout session. They are perfect for creating a peaceful environment as you prepare for the challenges of labour and birth.
• Gentle Rhythms: The slow tempos and soft melodies can serve as the backdrop for your pregnancy yoga classes or prenatal care routines, helping you stay calm and centred. Celebrity Tie-In: Sade has always been an advocate for inner peace and calm, and her music resonates with pregnant women around the world. Whether you’re at an antenatal clinic or relaxing at home, her music offers a serene escape.

3. Adele – “Make You Feel My Love” (2008): A Beautiful Lullaby for Baby Bonding

Adele’s poignant ballads have the ability to connect with deep emotional wells, making them an ideal choice for your labour and birth playlist. Her powerful voice conveys love, longing, and emotional strength, which is exactly what you might need when preparing to meet your little one.

Why Adele’s Music?

• Emotional Connection: “Make You Feel My Love” is a stunning lullaby that can help facilitate a bond with your baby during pregnancy. Listening to it before and during antenatal scans will remind you of the profound love you already feel for your child.
• Soothing for Labour: Adele’s ballads are known for their ability to soothe, providing a calm atmosphere during labour. Music has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety during prenatal care, which is why adding Adele’s ballads to your playlist can help bring you peace during the more intense moments of labour and birth. Celebrity Tie-In: Adele’s relatable lyrics and soulful voice have resonated with countless women throughout their antenatal journeys. Her own experiences of motherhood make her songs a natural choice for any pregnancy playlist.

4. Kendrick Lamar – “Alright” (2015): Motivating Anthem for Birth

When the time comes for labour, you need songs that provide motivation and strength. Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” is the perfect track to boost your energy and confidence.

Why Kendrick Lamar’s Music?

• Strength and Resilience: The song “Alright” is a powerful anthem about overcoming struggles, which can provide the mental strength you need during your labour. Its lyrics speak to resilience, empowerment, and the belief that everything will be okay—just like your birth journey.
• Energetic Beats: The song’s upbeat rhythm can be energising during early labour stages. It encourages you to stay positive and focus on the bigger picture: the arrival of your baby. Celebrity Tie-In: Kendrick Lamar’s music is heavily influenced by themes of perseverance and strength, which resonate with those undergoing difficult or challenging experiences. His music can be the perfect motivational tool when you’re in the midst of labour and birth.

5. John Legend – “All of Me” (2013): Love and Support for Labour

John Legend’s heartfelt ballad “All of Me” has become synonymous with love, support, and devotion. The song’s lyrics are deeply personal, expressing unconditional love and commitment.

Why John Legend’s Music?

• Supportive Energy: “All of Me” is a wonderful addition to your labour playlist as it speaks directly to the bond between partners. The song can help foster a supportive atmosphere, encouraging you and your partner to feel emotionally connected during the most intense moments of your antenatal journey.
• Heartfelt Lyrics: The lyrics also speak to the unconditional love you have for your baby, reminding you of why you’re going through the process of labour and birth. Celebrity Tie-In: John Legend’s own role as a father and his relationship with wife Chrissy Teigen have been widely celebrated. His music offers an honest, loving perspective on parenthood, making his songs an ideal fit for your pregnancy care playlist.

6. Enya – “Only Time” (2000): Soothing and Calming for Pre-Birth Relaxation

For expectant mothers looking for peace and tranquillity before or during labour, Enya’s ethereal and atmospheric music can be incredibly soothing.

Why Enya’s Music?

• Relaxation and Calmness: Enya’s ambient soundscapes can provide an environment of calm and peace, which is essential when preparing for birth. Tracks like “Only Time” help to quiet the mind, making it easier to relax during antenatal exercises like prenatal yoga or antenatal massage.
• Gentle, Reassuring Rhythms: Enya’s music provides reassurance through its gentle rhythms, making it ideal for helping you maintain calmness and reduce stress before or during labour. Celebrity Tie-In: Enya’s serene and peaceful style has become a go-to for individuals seeking inner calm, making her a perfect fit for anyone looking to create a peaceful antenatal care atmosphere before childbirth.

7. Shakira – “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010): A Fun and Energising Anthem

While not traditionally associated with pregnancy playlists, Shakira’s upbeat hit “Waka Waka” can offer a fun and energising addition to your labour and birth soundtrack.

Why Shakira’s Music?

• Energy Boost: The high-energy beats of “Waka Waka” can provide a great boost during more active stages of labour or when you’re trying to feel empowered and strong. Shakira’s vibrant personality and danceable rhythms are a great way to bring positive energy to your antenatal playlist.
• Motivation for Movement: The song encourages movement, which is useful during labour when you may want to change positions or walk around to help ease contractions. Celebrity Tie-In: Shakira’s energetic and empowering approach to life and motherhood makes her music a great choice for antenatal fitness routines or any moments when you need a burst of energy and motivation.

Curating Your Pregnancy, Labour, and Birth Playlist

Creating a playlist for your pregnancy, labour, and birth journey is not only about choosing the right tunes, but also about selecting songs that help you connect with yourself, your baby, and your support system. From the empowering anthems of Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar to the soothing ballads of Sade and Adele, the right music can provide emotional support, relaxation, and motivation throughout your antenatal journey. As you prepare for the birth of your child, take the time to curate a playlist that reflects your personal style, emotional needs, and the bond you share with your baby. Whether you’re looking for motivation, relaxation, or an energy boost during labour and birth, the right mix of songs can help guide you through this life-changing experience with confidence and joy.