Thanksgiving playlist: Why these might be the best songs to get you through the holiday

Joyce Orlando, USA TODAY NETWORK
·2 min read
Host Johnny Cash performs for the crowd during the seventh annual CMA Awards show at the Grand Ole Opry House on Oct. 15,1973.

There are some true holiday music classics that come on the radio this time of year. No, no not Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer or White Christmas, but Arlo Guthrie's Alice's Restaurant.

Most stores and some radio stations have had Christmas music waiting and ready for the endless loop before the last porch light was turned off for trick-or-treating. There's nothing wrong with Christmas music, but today is time to enjoy a little bit of Thanksgiving-esque music before turning Mariah back on.

Take a look at what made our Thanksgiving playlist this year.

Arlo Guthrie: "Alice's Restaurant"

Starting with the best classic Thanksgiving song, "Alice's Restaurant". Guthrie pulls storytelling and song together into an 18-plus minute bit about littering on Thanksgiving day. The epic tale will have you rolling, if you don't you might not have a sense of humor.

Bob Dylan: "Turkey Chase"

Looking for something with not so many words as Guthrie? Check out Bob Dylan's "Turkey Chase".

The instrumental song from Dylan's album "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid", has Dylan strumming and picking on the banjo. It is a nice one to have on in the background as you catch up with others.

The Beatles: "Wild Honey Pie"

Need a good, steady rhythm to help with your kneading? The Beatles, "Wild Honey Pie" has a beat for you.

Marc DeMarco: "Cooking Up Something Good"

Now for something a bit different. Marc DeMarco's indie song "Cooking up Something Good" lyrics talk about the mundaneness of suburban life, but the mellow tune will have you bobbing your head along to it.

Carrie Underwood: "Stretchy Pants"

Carrie Underwood's fun song is the anthem for all food lovers.

Johnny Cash: "Thanksgiving Prayer"

The Man in Black has a song to help you give thanks this year.

Bob Marley: "Give Thanks and Praise"

Bob Marley's "Give Thanks and Praise" keeps the mellow vibes going all Thanksgiving long.

Thanksgiving SNL style

Saturday Night Live has had many a comedy sketch and song revolving around Thanksgiving. Take a look at some of the hits below.

Check out more songs for Thanksgiving dinner here.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Thanksgiving playlist: From "Alice's Restaurant" to some of SNL's best

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