I'm a sucker for a good lullaby. A few years ago (um... eleven), I came across a CD of lullabies from around the world that can still calm me in an instant. I was in my mid-twenties and looking for a few soothing sleep-helpers amidst the roller-coaster experiences inherent in that age and my new life as a performing arts student in Boulder, Colorado (fun times). That's when I discovered chamomile tea, lavender bouquets, mobiles (I made my own from sticks and feathers and things I found in my neighborhood) and this CD, On A Starry Night.
Years later, thinking about the soothing love-filled melodies inspired me to compile a list of top ten most beautiful lullabies.
Most are my own personal favorites, but I got a little help from my friends, too.
10. Hush Little Baby
A natural, this song is one of the first I ever learned. I think I first heard it in preschool. I remember straining to learn the lyrics.
9. Go To Sleep You Little Baby
Another classic, this americana ballad provides an irresistible foundation for stacks and stacks of gorgeous harmony Go to Sleep You Little Baby. This song is also featured in the Coen Brothers' film O Brother, Where Art Thou.
8. Brahm's Lullaby (aka Cradle Song)
I never knew what this song was called until I started digging around for my friends' favorite lullabies, too. And lo and behold...
Here is a version sung by Frank Sinatra, sure to knock your babe to sleep or make you weep.
7. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
"...up above the world so high like a diamond in the sky..." Here is a version by a 7-year-old Youtube singing sensation accompanied by a 5-year-old on a ukulele. Enjoy & you're welcome!
6. Hey Jude
Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney and tweaked for John's son Julian, this is the lullaby my friend Julien was sung as a child by his mother. A very nice bedtime soother, I think & this cover is just breathtaking!