Music has the power to uplift our mood and transport us to a happier place. Whether we are feeling down, lonely, or stressed out, the right song can help us forget our troubles and fill us with positive energy. In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 songs to cheer you up. From classic oldies to modern pop hits, we have curated a list of the most inspiring, uplifting, and feel-good songs that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Each of these songs has its own unique style and message, but they all share a common thread of hope, joy, and optimism. Whether you’re feeling lost, defeated, or simply in need of a little pick-me-up, these songs will help you find the strength and motivation to keep going. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to be uplifted and inspired by some of the most iconic songs of all time.
1. “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
Lovely Day by Bill Withers is a soulful classic that exudes joy and happiness. With its upbeat tempo, catchy melodies and Withers’ signature smooth vocals, it’s impossible not to feel good when listening to this timeless tune. The lyrics are simple but effective, expressing a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of life and the beauty of the world around us. Lovely Day has become a popular choice for celebratory occasions and feel-good playlists, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to lift the spirits and put a smile on your face.
2. “Pocketful of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield
Pocketful of Sunshine by Natasha Bedingfield is an uplifting pop anthem that encourages listeners to stay positive and optimistic in the face of adversity. The song features Bedingfield’s powerful vocals, backed by catchy hooks and a driving beat, making it an instant feel-good classic. The lyrics urge listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the sunshine, reminding us that no matter what life throws our way, we have the power to choose our own happiness. Pocketful of Sunshine has become a popular anthem for empowerment and resilience, and its infectious energy makes it a go-to choice for uplifting playlists and motivational workouts.
3. “Shout” by The Isley Brothers
Shout by The Isley Brothers is a high-energy R&B classic that has become a staple of party playlists and dancefloors since its release in 1959. With its infectious call-and-response chorus, catchy guitar riffs, and driving beat, the song is impossible to resist. The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and dance, making it a perfect anthem for celebration and joy. Shout has remained a beloved favorite for decades, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to bring people together and create a sense of shared happiness.
4. “Fireflies” by Owl City
Fireflies by Owl City is a whimsical and dreamy electro-pop song that captures the magic and wonder of childhood. With its playful synths, twinkling melodies, and uplifting lyrics, the song transports listeners to a world of imagination and possibility. The lyrics describe a magical encounter with fireflies, and encourage listeners to embrace their own sense of wonder and creativity. Fireflies has become a beloved favorite of the indie pop genre, and its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for feel-good playlists and singalongs.
5. “Dance to the Music” by Sly & The Family Stone
Dance to the Music by Sly & The Family Stone is a funk and soul classic that celebrates the power of music to bring people together. With its driving beat, groovy basslines, and funky horns, the song is an irresistible invitation to hit the dancefloor. The lyrics encourage listeners to let go of their inhibitions and move to the rhythm, making it a perfect anthem for celebration and joy. Dance to the Music has become a beloved classic of the funk and soul genres, and its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for parties and gatherings of all kinds.
6. “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles
Walk Like an Egyptian by The Bangles is an infectious pop hit that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the 1980s. With its catchy hooks, jangly guitars, and upbeat rhythms, the song is an irresistible invitation to dance and let loose. The lyrics describe the quirky dance moves and mannerisms of Egyptian hieroglyphics, creating a sense of fun and playfulness. Walk Like an Egyptian has become a beloved classic of the pop rock genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to bring a smile to the face and get the feet moving.
7. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Happy by Pharrell Williams is an upbeat and joyful pop anthem that encourages listeners to embrace their happiness and celebrate the good things in life. With its catchy beat, funky groove, and soulful vocals, the song is a surefire mood-booster. The lyrics encourage listeners to let go of their worries and enjoy the present moment, making it a perfect anthem for celebration and joy. Happy has become a beloved favorite of the pop genre, and its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for everything from parties to weddings to graduation ceremonies.
8. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast
Hey Ya! by OutKast is an electrifying fusion of funk, hip-hop, and pop that has become a timeless classic since its release in 2003. With its infectious beat, catchy hooks, and funky bassline, the song is impossible to resist. The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship, but the upbeat music and positive energy of the song create a sense of joy and liberation. Hey Ya! has become a beloved classic of the hip-hop and pop genres, and its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for everything from dance parties to karaoke nights.
9. “I Really Like You” by Carly Rae Jepsen
I Really Like You by Carly Rae Jepsen is a sugary-sweet pop confection that perfectly captures the giddy excitement of a new crush. With its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and Jepsen’s effervescent vocals, the song is an irresistible invitation to join in the fun. The lyrics describe the butterflies and anticipation of falling in love, creating a sense of innocent charm and lightheartedness. I Really Like You has become a beloved favorite of the pop genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to bring a smile to the face and a skip to the step.
10. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin is an uplifting and inspirational a cappella song that encourages listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the joy of the present moment. With its simple melody, catchy hooks, and McFerrin’s infectious vocals, the song is a timeless classic. The lyrics urge listeners to focus on the positive aspects of life, no matter how difficult the circumstances may be, creating a sense of hope and resilience. Don’t Worry, Be Happy has become a beloved favorite of the pop genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to lift the spirits and spread positivity.
11. “The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World
The Middle by Jimmy Eat World is a high-energy rock anthem that encourages listeners to embrace their inner strength and persevere through difficult times. With its driving guitar riffs, catchy hooks, and soaring vocals, the song is a triumphant celebration of resilience. The lyrics urge listeners to keep pushing forward, no matter how challenging the obstacles may be, creating a sense of empowerment and determination. The Middle has become a beloved classic of the alternative rock genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to inspire and uplift the spirits.
12. “Good Time” by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen
Good Time by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen is an upbeat and infectious pop hit that celebrates the carefree spirit of youth. With its infectious beat, catchy hooks, and playful lyrics, the song is a joyous invitation to let loose and enjoy the moment. The lyrics describe the simple pleasures of life, creating a sense of fun and lightheartedness. Good Time has become a beloved favorite of the pop genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to bring a smile to the face and a dance to the feet.
13. “Famous Last Words” by My Chemical Romance
Famous Last Words by My Chemical Romance is a powerful and emotional rock ballad that explores the theme of mortality and the importance of living life to the fullest. With its haunting melody, soaring vocals, and evocative lyrics, the song is a poignant meditation on the fleeting nature of existence. The lyrics urge listeners to seize the day and make the most of every moment, creating a sense of urgency and purpose. Famous Last Words has become a beloved classic of the emo and alternative rock genres, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to touch the heart and soul.
14. “The Animal Song” by Savage Garden
The Animal Song by Savage Garden is a dreamy and ethereal pop ballad that celebrates the beauty and wonder of nature. With its delicate melody, lush instrumentation, and enchanting vocals, the song is a magical journey into the natural world. The lyrics describe the splendor of the animal kingdom, creating a sense of awe and reverence. The Animal Song has become a beloved classic of the pop genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to transport listeners to a world of wonder and enchantment.
15. “The Remedy” by Jason Mraz
The Remedy by Jason Mraz is a vibrant and upbeat pop-rock hit that encourages listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the joy of the present moment. With its infectious beat, catchy hooks, and soulful vocals, the song is a joyful celebration of life. The lyrics urge listeners to dance and sing, creating a sense of carefree abandon and liberation. The Remedy has become a beloved favorite of the pop and rock genres, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to lift the spirits and spread positivity.
16. “Up!” by Shania Twain
“Up!” by Shania Twain is an energetic and upbeat song that encourages listeners to let go of their worries and have a good time. With its catchy melody and lively rhythm, the song inspires a sense of fun and adventure, reminding listeners that life is meant to be enjoyed. Shania Twain’s powerful vocals and spirited performance capture the song’s playful spirit, making it impossible not to tap your feet or sing along. “Up!” is a joyful anthem that celebrates the joy of being alive and the thrill of taking risks, reminding us to seize the day and live life to the fullest.
17. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
“Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac is a classic rock song that speaks to the universal experience of heartbreak and moving on. With its signature guitar riff and driving beat, the song captures the raw emotions of a relationship falling apart and the singer’s determination to move forward on his own terms. Stevie Nicks’ soaring harmonies and Lindsey Buckingham’s impassioned vocals make the song a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.
18. “Today My Life Begins” by Bruno Mars
“Today My Life Begins” by Bruno Mars is an uplifting and empowering song about finding the courage to start over and live life to the fullest. With its positive message and catchy melody, the song encourages listeners to let go of the past and embrace the present, reminding us that each day is a new opportunity to chase our dreams and make a fresh start. Bruno Mars’ soulful vocals and optimistic energy capture the song’s spirit of hope and renewal, making it a perfect anthem for anyone who needs a little inspiration to take the next step in their journey.
19. “Dancing In The Moonlight” by Toploader
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader is a feel-good song that captures the carefree spirit of summer nights and good times with friends. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, the song is a celebration of life and the simple pleasures that make it worth living. The lyrics are an invitation to let go of your worries and dance under the stars, capturing the magic and joy of being young and alive. Toploader’s infectious energy and playful performance make the song a timeless classic that still makes listeners want to get up and dance.
20. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles
“Brave” by Sara Bareilles is a powerful and empowering song about finding the courage to speak up and be yourself. With its uplifting message and catchy melody, the song encourages listeners to overcome their fears and be true to who they are, reminding us that we are all capable of great things if we have the courage to believe in ourselves. Sara Bareilles’ soulful vocals and emotional delivery capture the song’s spirit of empowerment, making it a perfect anthem for anyone who needs a little inspiration to stand up for what they believe in and be brave.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
