Give Thanks: Five Rap Songs For Your Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has become the odd man out in American holiday culture. It’s not as slutty fun as Halloween, not as profitable as Christmas and not as … whatever St. Patrick’s Day is supposed to be.

Thanksgiving has essentially become the Pre-Black Friday Shopping Meal.

It doesn’t have to be that way. At its core, Thanksgiving is a celebration of family, faith and unity — those things that make our society stronger.

In honor of the spirit of the season, let’s look at five hip-hop songs that embody the essence of the Thanksgiving. Throw these on your playlist while celebrating life with loved ones.

Big K.R.I.T., “Soul Food”

Proving he’s one of rap’s most introspective wordsmiths, K.R.I.T. uses a soul food dinner as a delectable metaphor while examining the breakdown of the family structure.

2pac, “Dear Mama”

Let’s be real, we rarely show our parents the love they deserve. Pac’s definitive ode to motherhood puts those unspoken feelings into heartfelt words. Today, of all days, our parents deserve that affection.

Xzhibit, “Thank You”

Staying true to the reason for the season, Mr. X to the Z delivers a heartfelt ode to his son, his fallen friend Proof, as well as sincere gratitude to his fans.

Blood Type featuring Kendrick Lamar and Ghostwridah, “Thanksgiving”

Don’t let the title fool you — this track isn’t about turkeys and cranberries, it’s a gentle reminder to embrace life’s blessings. Plus, it’s just a fantastic throwback posse cut.

Kanye West, “Family Business”

I can’t think of any song that better depicts the joy (and occasional headaches) of a family gathering. We ALL have an Uncle Ray and Aunt Sheila in our families but we love them unconditionally — it’s a love that lasts much longer than any meal.