Ah, remember when it was all checked shirts and DMs and pints of Snakebite? I loved Nirvana with a passion in my teens. And now it’s a great way to remind kids that they didn’t invent adolescent angst. Also they shouldn’t wear t-shirts with someone’s face on, unless they’ve listened to the album or are aware of someone’s history (see also: Che Guevara and The Ramones)

2. Bridge over Troubled Water, Simon & Garfunkel

Aside from the fact that this album reminds me of A-Level revision, it’s timeless, isn’t it? The title song is unspeakably beautiful, of course, but the whole album is quietly poetic, and perfect if your kids are inspired to learn acoustic guitar.

3. 1989, Taylor Swift

Actually not everything I play for Flea is from my own youth – I think it’s worth continuing to listen to new stuff because every so often along comes a TOTAL pop classic that’s infused with all sorts of positive girl messages, and this is one of them.

4. Innervisions, Stevie Wonder

I’ve played Flea a lot of tunes over the years, Stevie Wonder, though, was one of the biggest successes. And why not? Who can resist the blend of dance-your-socks-off Motown-rhythms with sharp lyrics that reference all of American life in the 1970s.

5. The Immaculate Collection, Madonna

You might not be a fan of every aspect of Madonna’s career (and I’m certainly not) but there’s no getting around the fact that this album is a bona fide pop classic. It’s also a PERFECT road trip album with plenty of songs you can sing out loud to, from Holiday to Lucky Star to Borderline to Papa Don’t Preach to… well, pretty much every track is a winner.

6. John Denver’s Greatest Hits

Laura over at LittleStuff has tried heroically to introduce her children to John Denver, but to no avail. In out house, we’ve fared a little better – Country Roads is a staple on pretty much any road trip we take, and while Annie’s Song might pass her by for now, she can always be relied upon to join in with a chorus of Grandma’s Feather Bed.

7. Ramones, Ramones

I do firmly believe every teenager wearing a Ramones t-shirt should know this album. Joanne over at Opposable Thumbs has tried to force it on her teen daughter, but the teen has proved immune to even the irresistible Rock n Roll High School. Travesty.

8. The Smiths, Hatful of Hollow

There are so many awesome Smiths albums, it’s hard to know where to start – but I recommend this album, which has enough sing-along classics to entertain most kids. And I’ve yet to meet a depressed Northern teen who didn’t at least love Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now. As Jenny from The Brick Castle points out, your kids may think you tragic – but pull out your original Smiths t-shirt and you’re instantly uber-cool.

9. Buena Vista Social Club

Because sometimes you just need a soundtrack to dance around the kitchen too while you’re preparing Sunday lunch – and this is PERFECT.

10. The Beatles, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

Why? Because the Beatles are made for kids, with singalong melodies, trumpet solos and more as recommended by Cheshire Wife. Frankly, if your child reaches the age of 13 without knowing all the words to “With a Little Help from my Friends” then you, to be honest, have failed as a parent. End of.

WIN SIX MONTHS OF FREE MUSIC WITH SPOTIFY!

This week, Who’s the Mummy has teamed up with the lovely people at Spotify to give away TWO subscriptions to Spotify Premium. With a six-month subscription, you’ll enjoy high quality streaming, all the music your ears could wish for, an no ads!

To be in with a chance of winning, just leave a comment on this post telling me about the song you’d most like to share with friends or family – and why. Complete the Gleam competition widget to confirm your entry, and access bonus entries.

The competition closes on October 24, 2016 and is open to UK residents aged 18 and over. The prize is non-transferable, and there is no cash alternative. Winners will be chosen at random from all eligible entries, and will be announced on this post within one week of the closing date.

Good luck!

Win a 6 Month Subscription to Spotify Premium