Mothers: Oct. 11, 2011

Continuing with family themes, with my mother's birthday just around the corner, Variations on a Theme went with a theme of Mothers.

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Mothers' unconditional love never ceases to amaze.

Cherry Ghost - "Only a Mother" - Beneath This Burning Shoreline (2010)

Elliott Smith - "Wouldn't Mama Be Proud?" - Figure 8 (2000)

It can be very difficult when mothers become embroiled in family conflict.

Plants and Animals - "The Mama Papa" - La La Land (2010)

Tusks - "Mothers vs. Sons" - Tusks (2008)

We move from mothers against sons to mothers against daughters.

Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings - "Mama Don't Like My Man" - I Learned the Hard Way (2010)

Frazey Ford - "Blue Streak Mama" - Obadiah (2010)

When your mother is not around, you can feel completely bereft.

Former Ghosts - "Mother" - Fleurs (2009)

Girls - "My Ma" - Father, Son, Holy Ghost (2011)

There are times in life when you just need to be with your mother, either for her sake, your sake or both.

Elliott Brood - "My Mother's Side" - Days into Years (2011)

Lucinda Williams - "Mama You Sweet" - West (2007)

We hear from grateful sons about their mothers' dedication and strength.

K'Naan - "My Mother's Pearls" - My Life Is a Movie (2004)

Kanye West - "Hey Mama" - Late Registration (2005)

We end with a classic dedication to a strong mother.

2Pac - "Dear Mama" - Me Against the World (1995)