Music has always been a source of inspiration and motivation for people, especially during challenging times. When we face obstacles and difficulties, it’s natural to feel discouraged and want to give up. But sometimes all we need is a push to keep going, and that’s where music comes in. There are countless songs about fighting and never giving up, that inspire us to persevere through adversity and keep pushing forward.
These songs come in many different genres and styles, from hard-hitting rock tracks to catchy pop anthems, and they all share a common message of resilience and determination. They remind us that no matter how tough things get, we have the strength and the courage to overcome them. Some of the best songs about fighting and never giving up are more than just motivational tracks – they are cultural touchstones that have become anthems for generations. From classic rock tracks like “Eye of the Tiger” and “Street Fighting Man,” to hip-hop hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out” and “Till I Collapse,” to contemporary pop songs like “Fight Song” and “Survivor,” these tracks have resonated with listeners for decades. They remind us that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope, and that with determination and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle. So the next time you’re feeling discouraged, put on one of these songs, and let their uplifting messages inspire you to keep fighting and never give up.
1.‘Eye of the Tiger’ by Survivor
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor is a classic rock anthem that has become synonymous with sports and motivational moments. Released in 1982, the song was written as the theme for the movie “Rocky III,” and has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved songs of the era. The driving guitar riff, powerful vocals, and iconic chorus make it the perfect song for pumping up the adrenaline and getting pumped up for any challenge. Whether it’s a workout or a competitive event, “Eye of the Tiger” is the ultimate pump-up song that inspires determination, strength, and the will to succeed.
2.‘(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)’ by The Beastie Boys
“(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)” by The Beastie Boys is a high-energy, rebellious anthem that captures the youthful spirit of the 1980s. Released in 1986, the song is a celebration of teenage rebellion and the desire to have fun, party, and break the rules. With its catchy hook, heavy guitar riffs, and iconic rap verses, “Fight for Your Right” quickly became a hit, catapulting The Beastie Boys to fame and cementing their place in music history. The song has since become a cultural touchstone, and remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire generations of music fans to let loose and have fun.
3.‘Street Fighting Man’ by The Rolling Stones
“Street Fighting Man” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock protest song that captures the revolutionary spirit of the late 1960s. Released in 1968, the song’s driving rhythm, searing guitar riffs, and Mick Jagger’s defiant vocals create a powerful sense of urgency and rebellion. The lyrics reflect the social and political turmoil of the era, with Jagger singing about the need for change and the call to action for people to take to the streets and fight for their rights. “Street Fighting Man” is an iconic anthem of the counterculture movement, and remains a powerful reminder of the power of music to inspire social change.
4.‘Fussing and Fighting’ by Bob Marley
“Fussing and Fighting” by Bob Marley is a classic reggae track that captures the spirit of love and conflict in relationships. Released in 1973, the song’s laid-back rhythm, soulful harmonies, and Marley’s signature vocals create a powerful sense of emotion and intimacy. The lyrics reflect the ups and downs of a troubled relationship, with Marley singing about the pain of arguing and the importance of forgiveness and understanding. “Fussing and Fighting” is a timeless classic that speaks to the universal experiences of love and conflict, and remains a beloved song among reggae fans and music lovers around the world.
5.‘Fight the Power’ by Public Enemy
“Fight the Power” by Public Enemy is a seminal hip-hop track that has become an iconic protest song. Released in 1989, the song’s powerful lyrics, relentless beat, and aggressive delivery by Chuck D and Flavor Flav make it an anthem of resistance against social and political oppression. The song’s lyrics address issues such as police brutality, racism, and inequality, and urge listeners to fight for justice and equality. With its memorable chorus and driving rhythm, “Fight the Power” remains a powerful call to action and a symbol of resistance for generations of activists and music fans.
6.‘Love is a Battlefield’ by Pat Benatar
“Love is a Battlefield” by Pat Benatar is a classic rock anthem that captures the emotional struggles of romantic relationships. Released in 1983, the song’s driving beat, catchy chorus, and Benatar’s powerful vocals make it a timeless classic. The lyrics reflect the ups and downs of a tumultuous relationship, with Benatar singing about the pain of heartbreak, the power of love, and the need for independence and self-reliance. “Love is a Battlefield” is a timeless classic that speaks to the universal experiences of love and heartbreak, and remains a beloved song among rock fans and music lovers around the world.
7.‘Break Stuff’ by Limp Bizkit
“Break Stuff” by Limp Bizkit is a high-energy rock track that captures the aggressive and rebellious spirit of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Released in 2000, the song’s heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and Fred Durst’s furious vocals create a powerful sense of intensity and anger. The lyrics reflect the frustrations and pent-up emotions of youth culture, with Durst singing about the desire to break free and release one’s rage. “Break Stuff” remains a popular song for intense workouts or letting out frustrations, and has become an iconic rock anthem of its era.
8.‘A Punch Up at a Wedding’ by Radiohead
“A Punch Up at a Wedding” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective track that explores the darker aspects of human relationships. Released in 2003, the song’s haunting piano melodies, atmospheric instrumentation, and Thom Yorke’s ethereal vocals create a sense of melancholy and introspection. The lyrics reflect the bitter and painful feelings of a failed relationship, with Yorke singing about the desire to lash out and hurt those who have caused pain. “A Punch Up at a Wedding” is a powerful and emotive song that speaks to the deep and complex emotions that can arise in relationships, and remains a beloved track among Radiohead fans and music lovers around the world.
9.‘Mama Said Knock You Out’ by LL Cool J
“Mama Said Knock You Out” by LL Cool J is a classic hip-hop track that has become an iconic anthem of power and resilience. Released in 1990, the song’s driving beat, catchy hooks, and LL Cool J’s confident vocals create a powerful sense of energy and empowerment. The lyrics reflect the artist’s determination to overcome adversity and prove his critics wrong, with LL Cool J rapping about his strength, skills, and ability to “knock out” anyone who stands in his way. “Mama Said Knock You Out” remains a beloved and influential hip-hop track that speaks to the power of determination and resilience.
10.‘Saturday Nights Alright (For Fighting)’ by Elton John
“Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting)” by Elton John is a classic rock track that captures the energy and excitement of a night out on the town. Released in 1973, the song’s driving rhythm, catchy hooks, and Elton John’s powerful vocals make it an enduring classic. The lyrics reflect the party spirit of the era, with John singing about the thrill of going out on a Saturday night and letting loose. “Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting)” is a timeless classic that speaks to the universal experience of enjoying a night out with friends, and remains a beloved song among rock fans and music lovers around the world.
11.‘Kiss With A Fist’ by Florence and the Machine
“Kiss With A Fist” by Florence and the Machine is an upbeat and catchy indie rock track that explores the tumultuous nature of a fiery relationship. Released in 2008, the song’s driving guitars, pounding drums, and Florence Welch’s powerful vocals create a sense of frenzied passion and intensity. The lyrics describe a relationship in which the couple’s love is expressed through fighting and physical altercations, with Welch singing about the bruises and scars that come with their affection. “Kiss With A Fist” is a bold and provocative track that speaks to the complex and often volatile nature of romantic relationships.
12.‘Survivor’ by Destiny’s Child
“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child is a powerful and empowering anthem of resilience and perseverance. Released in 2001, the song’s catchy hooks, driving beat, and the group’s powerful harmonies create a sense of energy and determination. The lyrics describe the challenges and obstacles faced by the members of Destiny’s Child, with the group singing about their determination to overcome adversity and emerge as survivors. “Survivor” has become an iconic song of empowerment and strength, inspiring listeners to overcome their own challenges and emerge as victorious survivors.
13.‘Fight Song’ by Rachel Platten
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten is an uplifting and inspiring pop anthem that encourages listeners to persevere in the face of adversity. Released in 2015, the song’s catchy hooks, driving beat, and Platten’s emotive vocals create a sense of hope and determination. The lyrics describe the challenges and setbacks that Platten has faced in her life, with the chorus proclaiming her commitment to keep fighting and never give up. “Fight Song” has become a popular motivational track, inspiring listeners to overcome their own obstacles and pursue their dreams with passion and determination.
14.‘Till I Collapse’ by Eminem
“Till I Collapse” by Eminem is a powerful and intense rap track that speaks to the artist’s determination to succeed in the face of adversity. Released in 2002, the song’s driving beat, fierce rhymes, and Eminem’s gritty vocals create a sense of raw energy and power. The lyrics describe the struggles and challenges that Eminem has faced in his life, with the rapper declaring his commitment to keep pushing forward and never give up. “Till I Collapse” has become a beloved and iconic hip-hop track, inspiring listeners to push through their own struggles and emerge victorious on the other side.
15.‘Fighting My Way Back’ by Thin Lizzy
“Fighting My Way Back” by Thin Lizzy is a hard-hitting rock track that speaks to the struggles of addiction and recovery. Released in 1975, the song’s driving guitars, pounding drums, and Phil Lynott’s raw vocals create a sense of urgency and determination. The lyrics describe the pain and turmoil that Lynott experienced as a result of his addiction to drugs and alcohol, with the chorus proclaiming his determination to fight his way back to sobriety. “Fighting My Way Back” is a powerful and emotional track that speaks to the challenges of addiction and the strength required to overcome it.
16.‘Kung Fu Fighting’ by Carl Douglas
“Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas is an infectious disco track that has become a beloved classic of the genre. Released in 1974, the song’s catchy hooks, funky bassline, and Douglas’s smooth vocals create a sense of fun and energy. The lyrics describe a kung fu master’s prowess in combat, with the chorus proclaiming the titular line, “Everybody was kung fu fighting”. “Kung Fu Fighting” has become a popular party anthem and a staple of dance floors around the world, with its catchy melody and playful lyrics encouraging listeners to let loose and have fun.
Jared Parker 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.
