Tired of listening to Kool & the Gang at b’nai mitzvah parties? Here is a playlist of 13 songs that will bring the shy boys and boy-crazy girls to the dance floor, while following in the talmudic tradition of adding a little commentary to the big day.
“When I Grow Up (To Be a Man)”
The Beach Boys (1965)
That would be today, fellas.
“I’ll Be There for You”
(theme song from “Friends”)
The Rembrandts (1995)
Invite 300 of your closest friends!
“Get the Party Started”
Pink (2001)
Best. Entrance. Song. Ever.
“Fire”
Jimi Hendrix (1967)
Don’t forget bubbe and zayde during the candle lighting.
“I Want to Take You Higher”
Sly and the Family Stone (1969)
Lift that chair in the air!
“Shiver”
Coldplay (2000)
Is it me or is the synagogue freezing?
“Gimme Little Sign”
Brenton Wood (1967)
No party is complete without a signing board.
“Suit & Tie”
Justin Timberlake (2013)
You’d better dress up, boys.
“Happy”
Pharrell Williams (2013)
Clap along if you feel … like “Havah Nagilah” is played out.
“Beautiful Day”
U2 (2000)
Sure is.
“Parents Just Don’t Understand”
DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince (1988)
Sorry, Mom and Dad, but the next 13 years will be even harder.
“Hold On, We’re Going Home”
Drake (2013)
Not if this Jewish rapper has anything to say about it.
“Best Day of My Life”
American Authors (2013)
Until your 16th birthday, that is.
