If you’re looking for lullaby lyrics, you’re probably either cradling your precious bundle of joy or sneaking in a few minutes of reading between feeds and diaper changes.
I get it; the days are long, and the nights are longer.
Here’s a handy guide to 35 of the best lullaby lyrics.
1. “You Are My Sunshine”
You are my sunshine My only sunshine You make me happy When skies are gray You'll never know, dear How much I love you Please don't take My sunshine away
This is a cherished classic that tugs at the heartstrings. It’s the perfect song to remind your baby how much they mean to you.
The Christina Perri version is so lovely to listen to!
2. “All Is Found”
Where the North wind meets the sea There's a river full of memory Sleep, my darling, safe and sound For in this river, all is found In her waters, deep and true Lie the answers and a path for you Dive down deep into her sound But not too far or you'll be drowned Yes, she will sing to those who'll hear And in her song, all magic flows But can you brave what you most fear? Can you face what the river knows? Where the North wind meets the sea There's a mother full of memory Come, my darling, homeward bound When all is lost, then all is found
This lullaby from the movie Frozen 2 was a staple for me with my second, and now my third, child. It’s soothing and will lull your little one right to sleep.
3. “I Cross My Heart”
Our love is unconditional We knew it from the start I see it in your eyes You can feel it from my heart From here on after Let's stay the way we are right now And share all the love and laughter That a lifetime will allow I cross my heart And promise to Give all I've got to give To make all your dreams come true In all the world You'll never find A love as true as mine
The song “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait was our exclusive lullaby with our firstborn for no less than two years straight.
Every single night, my husband would sing this song to our daughter, and she couldn’t go to bed without it.
It may not be seen as a classic lullaby, but if you’re a country fan, it will get you right in the feels.
4. “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”
Twinkle, twinkle, little star How I wonder what you are Up above the world so high Like a diamond in the sky Twinkle, twinkle, little star How I wonder what you are
Who doesn’t love this timeless, universal lullaby that has been comforting little ones for generations?
The simplicity of this one is what makes it a winner.
5. “When You Wish Upon a Star”
When you wish upon a star Makes no difference who you are Anything your heart desires Will come to you
“When You Wish Upon a Star” is such a timeless Disney classic.
Whether you’re a Disney fan or just love a good, calming tune, this lullaby is perfect for helping your little one drift off to sleep with an added sprinkle of magic.
6. “Rock-a-Bye Baby”
Rock a bye baby, on the tree top, When the wind blows the cradle will rock. When the bough breaks the cradle will fall, And down will come baby, cradle and all.
“Rock-a-Bye Baby” is another classic lullaby that has stood the test of time. Mothers have been singing this and rocking their children to sleep for generations.
The full lullaby is in this book, Sing to Sleep. I love books like this, and so do my kiddos.
When I turn the page and start singing, they’re a little confused at first. Why is Mom singing and not speaking?
But the more we do it, the more they absolutely love it. It’s such a sweet bedtime ritual.
7. “Hush, Little Baby”
Hush, little baby don't say a word Mama's gonna buy you a mocking bird And if that mocking bird don't sing Mama's gonna buy you a diamond ring And if that diamond ring is brass Mama's gonna buy you a looking glass
If you find yourself improvising the lyrics to this classic lullaby, you’re not alone!
Sometimes the exact lyrics slip away, but it’s the warmth in your voice and the heart behind the song that matters.
Comment your weirdest made-up verse below!!
8. “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep”
Baa, baa, black sheep, Have you any wool? Yes sir, yes sir, Three bags full. One for the master, One for the dame, And one for the little boy Who lives down the lane
A nursery rhyme with a simple yet catchy tune to help you snuggle up to your baby.
This has been our middle son’s favorite tune for as long as I can remember!
9. “Lullaby and Goodnight”
Lullaby and good night, with roses bedight, With lilies o'er spread is baby's wee bed. Lay thee down now and rest, may thy slumber be blessed. Lay thee down now and rest, may thy slumber be blessed. Lullaby and good night, thy mother's delight. Bright angels beside my darling abide. They will guard thee at rest, thou shalt wake on my breast. They will guard thee at rest, thou shalt wake on my breast.
You may not recognize the title – or even the lyrics – of this song, but you’ve definitely heard it before. It’s also known as “Brahms’ Lullaby” or “The Cradle Song.”
The original is a classical violin masterpiece composed by Johannes Brahms. I normally like lullaby remakes even better, but in this case, the original composition is just beautiful.
10. “Lavender’s Blue”
Lavender's blue, dilly dilly, Lavender's green When I am King, dilly dilly, You shall be Queen
This lullaby originally came from the 1948 Disney film So Dear to My Heart, but the newer version is from the 2015 Cinderella soundtrack.
It’s so soothing for little ears, and it’s easy to sing.
11. “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes”
A dream is a wish your heart makes When you're fast asleep In dreams you will lose your heartaches Whatever you wish for, you keep Have faith in your dreams and someday Your rainbow will come smiling through No matter how your heart is grieving If you keep on believing The dream that you wish will come true
A Disney classic from the original Cinderella, this song has become a timeless favorite.
Its tender melody paired with meaningful lyrics makes it a popular choice for bedtime.
12. “Hushabye Mountain”
A gentle breeze from Hushabye Mountain Softly blows o'er Lullaby Bay It fills the sails of boats that are waiting Waiting to sail your worries away It isn't far to Hushabye Mountain And your boat waits down by the quay The winds of night so softly are sighing Soon they will fly your troubles to sea So close your eyes on Hushabye Mountain Wave goodbye to cares of the day And watch your boat from Hushabye Mountain Sail far away from Lullaby Bay
This one dates back to the 1968 movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Dick Van Dyke sings it to his kids while they are falling asleep.
The lyrics paint a serene picture with the breeze carrying the day’s worries away.
13. “Stay Awake”
Stay awake don't rest your head Don't lie down upon your bed While the moon drifts in the skies Stay awake don't close your eyes Though the world is fast asleep Though your pillow soft and deep You're not sleepy as you seem Stay awake, don't nod and dream Stay awake, don't nod and dream
A popular lullaby from the classic movie Mary Poppins, sung by the legendary Julie Andrews.
Jane and Michael don’t want to go to bed, but when Mary starts singing “Stay Awake,” they start falling asleep.
Reverse psychology at its finest!
14. “Baby Mine”
Baby mine, don't you cry Baby mine, dry your eyes Rest your head close to my heart Never to part, baby of mine Little one when you play Don't you mind what you say Let those eyes sparkle and shine Never a tear, baby of mine
A soft and sweet lullaby from the classic Disney film Dumbo.
The lyrics express a mother’s deep love and reassurance to her little one, which is why I love this choice for a bedtime lullaby.
15. “Bye, Baby Bunting”
Bye, baby Bunting, Daddy’s gone a-hunting, Gone to get a rabbit skin To wrap the baby Bunting in
This one is an English-language nursery rhyme and lullaby, loved for its simplicity.
Its super short verse is easy to remember and perfect for a quick and soothing sing-along.
16. “Golden Slumbers”
Once there was a way To get back homeward Once there was a way To get back home Sleep, pretty darling, do not cry And I will sing a lullaby Golden slumbers fill your eyes Smiles await you when you rise Sleep pretty darling, do not cry And I will sing a lullaby
One of my favorite – and most popular – versions of the song “Golden Slumbers” is by The Beatles.
I love the soft lyrics and the gentle tone that this melody has. You can find several different remixes.
A newer one that I’m also in love with is Jennifer Hudson’s version from the film Sing.
17. “Boy”
Boy, you're gonna know it all You'll think you're ten feet tall And run like you're bulletproof And total a car or two Boy, you're gonna hate this town Wish you could burn it down That fire in your eyes is twenty counties wide But boy, you're gonna love seventeen And boy, you'll do some stupid things You're gonna drive and kiss And throw a punch And grow up way too fast You're gonna drop the ball Hit the wall And break some hearts like glass I know you will, 'cause you're a part of me And a part of you will always be a boy
Although not technically a lullaby, the slow melody of this country song by Lee Brice is soothing enough for bedtime.
It’s also a real tear-jerker for my husband, who can hardly make it through the song without losing it!
18. “Moon River”
Moon river, wider than a mile I'm crossing you in style some day Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker Wherever you're goin', I'm goin' your way Two drifters, off to see the world There's such a lot of world to see We're after the same rainbow's end Waitin' 'round the bend My huckleberry friend Moon river and me
Originally sung by Audrey Hepburn in the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the song’s poetic lyrics and soothing melody make it a delightful choice for a bedtime lullaby.
Many people have covered this song, but there’s nothing quite like Audrey singing it herself.
19. “Beautiful Dreamer”
Beautiful Dreamer, wake unto me, Starlight and dewdrops are waiting for thee; Sounds of the rude world heard in the day, Lull'd by the moonlight have all passed away! Beautiful dreamer, queen of my song, List while I woo thee with soft melody; Gone are the cares of life's busy throng Beautiful dreamer, awake unto me! Beautiful dreamer, awake unto me!
This song has such a beautiful tune. The lyrics are filled with dreamy sentiments perfect to sing at bedtime.
20. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”
Someday I'll wish upon a star Wake up where the clouds are far behind me Where trouble melts like lemon drops High above the chimney tops, that's where You'll find me Oh, somewhere over the rainbow Blue birds fly And the dream that you dare to Oh, why, oh, why can't I?
Surely, you’ve heard the original version that came out of The Wizard of Oz, but the sweet Hawaiian remake by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is perfect for serenading your little one to sleep.
21. “Dream a Little Dream of Me”
Stars shining bright above you Night breezes seem to whisper "I love you" Birds singing in the sycamore tree Dream a little dream of me
Another classic lullaby that has been redone by many. The Michael Bublé version is by far my favorite version of this one.
22. “Edelweiss”
Edelweiss, edelweiss Every morning you greet me Small and white, clean and bright You look happy to meet me Blossom of snow, may you bloom and grow Bloom and grow forever Edelweiss, edelweiss Bless my homeland forever
This song comes from The Sound of Music soundtrack.
In the movie, Captain von Trapp sings the song with his family, but I also love the JJ Heller version as a lullaby. It’s very calming and would put a baby right to sleep.
23. “You’ll Be in My Heart”
Come stop your crying It will be alright Just take my hand Hold it tight I will protect you From all around you I will be here Don't you cry For one so small You seem so strong My arms will hold you Keep you safe and warm This bond between us Can't be broken I will be here don't you cry 'Cause you'll be in my heart Yes, you'll be in my heart From this day on Now and forever more
“You’ll Be in My Heart” was the animated movie Tarzan‘s featured track, and it earned Phil Collins an Oscar for best original song.
This song brings tears to my eyes as it is, but there’s a lullaby version that is absolutely perfect for lulling your little one to sleep. The Christina Perri version is perfectly soothing!
24. “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
Like a river flows Surely to the sea Darling, so it goes Some things, you know, are meant to be Take my hand Take my whole life too For I can't help falling in love with you
This classic by Elvis Presley isn’t just a timeless love ballad but also a beautiful choice for a calming lullaby.
There are several lullaby renditions of the song (Kacey Musgraves has a killer rendition), but the original version is still so good for little ones because Elvis’ voice is velvety smooth and has a way of calming.
25. “What A Wonderful World”
I see trees of green Red roses too I see them bloom For me and you And I think to myself What a wonderful world... ...I hear babies cry I watch them grow They'll learn much more Than I'll ever know And I think to myself What a wonderful world
This is such a soulful serenade that delivers a message of beauty and hope, which makes bedtime a special moment.
It’s another one that you can find lullaby versions of, but Louis Armstrong’s version is a classic and just as soothing for bedtime.
26. “Pure Imagination”
Come with me and you'll be In a world of pure imagination Take a look and you'll see Into your imagination
An enchanting melody from Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. It has a magical quality to it that brings out feelings of youth and joyfulness.
The Josh Groban version has a lovely lullaby feel to it and is honestly just nice to listen to any time of day!
27. “All the Pretty Horses”
Hush-a-bye, don't you cry Go to sleep you little baby When you wake, you will have cake And all the pretty little horses
“All the Pretty Horses,” also known as “Hush-a-bye” has been adapted by many different artists over the years and has even inspired an American novel and movie.
The melody of this one feels almost mystical, which is perfect for a nightly serenade.
I really love the version of this song that’s on the Storypod craftie Sleepi Sheep. It’s the perfect audio for lulling your little one to sleep.
Get my full Storypod review here.
28. “Sleep, Baby, Sleep”
Sleep, baby, sleep Your father tends the sheep Your mother shakes the dreamland tree And from it fall sweet dreams for thee Sleep, baby, sleep Sleep, baby, sleep Sleep, baby, sleep Our cottage vale is deep The little lamb is on the green With snowy fleece so soft and clean Sleep, baby, sleep Sleep, baby, sleep
A timeless lullaby with plenty of playful and adorable renditions. Pinkfong has a cute version of this on YouTube to put on for the littles.
29. “The Evening Prayer” (When At Night I Go to Sleep)
When at night I go to sleep Fourteen angels watch do keep Two my head are guarding Two my feet are guiding Two are on my right hand Two are on my left hand Two who warmly cover Two who o’er me hover Two to whom ’tis given To guide my steps to heaven
This one originally comes from the opera Hansel and Gretel. It’s enchanting and serene and another great song for bedtime.
30. “Too Ra Loo Ra Loo Ral”
Over in Killarney, many years ago Me Mother sang a song to me in tones so sweet and low, Just a simple little ditty, in her good ould Irish way, And I'd give the world if she could sing That song to me this day. Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, Too-ra-loo-ra-li, Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, Hush, now, don't you cry! Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, Too-ra-loo-ra-li, Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, That's an Irish lullaby.
This is an old-time Irish-American lullaby that dates back to the 1800s but was then brought back to fame by Bing Crosby in 1944.
It has a really slow but sweet melody that creates a calming bedtime environment for a baby.
31. “The Cuckoo Is a Pretty Bird”
The cuckoo she’s a pretty bird, She sings as she flies, She brings us glad tidings, And tells us no lies. She sucks on pretty flowers, To make her voice clear, She never sings cuckoo, Till spring of the year.
The cuckoo bird is traditionally a symbol of love, which makes this song so sweet. It’s traditionally an English folk song that has been sung in the US a lot as well.
32. “Hush, My Dear”
Hush, my dear, lie still and slumber, Holy angels guard thy bed, Heav’nly blessings without number, Gently falling on thy head.
This lullaby is a religious hymn and it’s perfect for rocking your baby to sleep during the holiday season.
33. “All Through the Night”
Sleep my child and peace attend thee, All through the night Guardian angels God will send thee, All through the night Soft the drowsy hours are creeping, Hill and dale in slumber sleeping I my loved ones' watch am keeping, All through the night
Originally a Welsh lullaby, this charmer also transforms into a beautiful Christmas carol.
The song has seen several renditions by stars like Olivia Newton-John and Michael McDonald.
34. “Slumber My Darling”
Slumber, my darling, the birds are at rest, The wandering dews by the flow'rs are caressed, Slumber, my darling, I'll wrap thee up warm, And pray that the angels will shield thee from harm
Another classic that is elegant, simple, and delicate. I also really enjoyed Alison Krauss singing it.
35. “All the World Is Sleeping”
Go to sleep upon my breast, All the world is sleeping, ‘Till the morning's light you'll rest, Mother's watch is keeping. Birds and beasts have closed their eyes, All the world is sleeping. In the morn the sun will rise, Mothers watch is keeping.
Another traditional Welsh lullaby for the list. Its sweet melody is perfect for naptime or bedtime.
Conclusion
With these lullaby lyrics at your fingertips, you’ll always have a sweet serenade to soothe your baby to sleep. Don’t forget you can listen to all of these songs on the Spotify playlist I made for you:
Wishing you and your little one many peaceful nights and sweet lullabies.
