BARRY LEVINE: Mama a favorite topic for popular songs

Today is one of the most meaningful days of the year, when those fortunate enough to still have their mothers pause to honor them in a plethora of different ways. Some might give their mothers chocolates or roses or a piece of jewelry or a greeting card or simply a telephone call to say, “Mom, I love you. Thanks for everything you have done for me.”

In honor of Mother’s Day, which has been celebrated in this country since 1908, here are some of the songs that have the word mother or a derivative of the word in the title.

“Mama” — Written by Cesare Andrea Bixio with Italian lyrics by Bixio Cherubin in 1941, Harold Barlow and Phil Brito wrote the English lyrics five years later. Connie Francis recorded the song in 1959 for her album “Connie Francis Sings Italian Favorites” and it was released as a single in 1960. Francis’ version reached No. 8 on the charts.

“Mama Said” – This was the fourth of the Shirelles’ 12 Top 40 hits, climbing to No. 4 in 1961.

“Mama Sang a Song” – Unquestionably known more for his acting ability than his singing skill, Walter Brennan had his third and last Top 40 tune when “Mama Sang a Song” reached No. 38. The Johnny Mann Singers backed Brennan on the song. One of three actors to win three Oscars, Brennan won the accolade for “Come and Get It” in 1936, “Kentucky” in 1938 and “The Westerner” in 1940. All were for best supporting actor.

“Mama Didn’t Lie” – This was Jan Bradley’s only Top 40 hit, reaching No. 14 in 1963. The song was written by Curtis Mayfield of the Impressions.

“Mother and Child Reunion” – Written and performed by Paul Simon on his 1972 album, “Paul Simon,” the song was released as a single in February 1972, reaching No. 4. It was one of the first songs by a white musician to feature prominent elements of reggae.

“Mama Told Me Not to Come” – This 1970 tune was the first of three No.1 hits by Three Dog Night. The song was written by Randy Newman. A prolific writer and singer, Newman has released 12 albums. His biggest single was “Short People” in 1977.

“Mama Liked the Roses” – Even Elvis Presley, The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll had a song with mama in the title. “Mama Liked the Roses,” which failed to chart, was on the flip side of his 1970 song “The Wonder of You.” Presley made the recording because in large part because of his strong relationship with his mother. It was written by John Christopher who also penned Willie Nelson’s Top 5 hit “Always on My Mind.”

“Mama, Teach Me to Dance” – Eydie Gorme recorded this song in 1956 begging her mother to teach her to dance. The song managed to reach No. 36 on the charts.

“Mother’s Little Helper” – The Rolling Stones’ song was released in 1966 and first appeared in the group’s 1966 album “Aftermath.” It was released as a single that same year and peaked at No. 8.

“Mamma Mia” – The song was recorded in 1975 by ABBA, the Swedish pop group, and written by Benny Andersson, Bj