Music has an unparalleled ability to lift our spirits, boost our mood, and put a smile on our faces. Whether we’re feeling down, stressed out, or just need a pick-me-up, a good playlist of feel-good songs can work wonders. From classic hits to current chart-toppers, there’s no shortage of music to choose from when it comes to brightening up your day. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 35 feel-good songs that are guaranteed to put a spring in your step and a song in your heart.
Our selection includes a variety of genres, from pop and rock to R&B and soul. We’ve also included some lesser-known gems alongside well-known favorites, so there’s sure to be something for everyone. Some of the songs on our list are upbeat and danceable, while others are more mellow and contemplative. What they all have in common is their ability to uplift and inspire.
Whether you’re looking for a song to sing along to in the car, to dance around your living room to, or simply to listen to while you relax and unwind, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of the top 35 feel-good songs to brighten up your day!
1. Get Lucky – Daft Punk feat. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers
“Get Lucky” is a song by the electronic music duo Daft Punk featuring Pharrell Williams and Nile Rodgers. It was released in 2013 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features a catchy disco groove with funk and R&B influences, driven by Nile Rodgers’ distinctive guitar playing. Pharrell Williams’ vocals provide a soulful touch, while Daft Punk’s signature robotic voice adds a futuristic element. “Get Lucky” is known for its infectious melody and danceable beat, making it a staple of parties and clubs around the world.
2. The Nights – Avicii
“The Nights” is a song by Swedish musician Avicii from his posthumous album “TIM”. It features the vocals of singer-songwriter Nicholas “RAS” Furlong and is a tribute to Avicii’s love for performing and living life to the fullest. The song is an uplifting and motivational anthem that encourages listeners to chase their dreams and make the most of every moment. With its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and positive lyrics, “The Nights” has become a popular feel-good song that inspires people to live their lives with passion and purpose. The music video features footage of Avicii’s own travels and performances around the world.
3. Lust For Life – Iggy Pop
“Lust for Life” is a classic rock song by Iggy Pop, released in 1977. It is known for its upbeat, energetic tempo and catchy chorus, with Pop’s signature raw, punk rock vocals. The song features a prominent drumbeat, driving bassline, and explosive guitar riffs. Lyrically, “Lust for Life” celebrates the joy of living and the pursuit of pleasure, with Pop singing about his desire to “choose life” and “have a good time.” The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a timeless rock anthem that continues to inspire new generations of music fans.
4. The Seed (2.0) – The Roots ft. Cody ChesnuTT
“The Seed (2.0)” is a song by American hip hop band The Roots, featuring singer-songwriter Cody ChesnuTT. Released in 2002, the track is a reworked version of ChesnuTT’s own song, “The Seed”, and is known for its bluesy rock sound and infectious groove. The song’s lyrics revolve around the concept of “seeds” as a metaphor for ideas and the power of imagination. The combination of The Roots’ live instrumentation and ChesnuTT’s soulful vocals creates a powerful and timeless track that continues to be a fan favorite. “The Seed (2.0)” has been widely praised for its originality and influence on the music industry.
5. Moves Like Jagger ft. Christina Aguilera – Maroon 5
“Moves Like Jagger” by pop rock band Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera is a catchy and upbeat dance-pop track that pays tribute to the legendary moves of Mick Jagger. The song’s infectious chorus and energetic beat make it a popular party anthem that is guaranteed to get people on their feet.
6. Valerie – The Zutons
“Valerie” by British indie rock band The Zutons is a soulful and nostalgic tribute to a lost love. The song’s catchy melody and lead singer Dave McCabe’s gritty vocals create a sense of longing and bittersweet nostalgia that makes it a timeless classic. The song was later covered by Amy Winehouse and became a hit in its own right.
7. Feelgood, Inc. – Gorillaz
“Feel Good, Inc.” is a song by the virtual band Gorillaz, featuring De La Soul. The song blends hip-hop and alternative rock elements, with a catchy guitar riff, electronic beats, and distinctive vocal delivery. The lyrics seem to criticize modern society’s obsession with consumerism, while also questioning the nature of reality and the role of media in shaping our perceptions. The music video features the band members and their animated characters performing on a skyscraper, surrounded by a dystopian landscape. With its infectious energy and thought-provoking themes, “Feel Good, Inc.” has become a beloved hit and a quintessential Gorillaz song.
8. I Got a Feeling – Black Eyed Peas
“I Got a Feeling” is a dance-pop anthem by the Black Eyed Peas, written by Will.i.am and produced by David Guetta. The song is built around a pulsing electro beat, synth hooks, and anthemic vocals, with a positive and uplifting message about living life to the fullest and enjoying the moment. The song became a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its catchy melody, infectious energy, and celebratory vibe have made it a staple at parties, weddings, and other festive occasions, cementing its place in pop culture history as a timeless feel-good hit.
9. Lovely Day – Bill Withers
“Lovely Day” is a soulful and uplifting song by the late singer-songwriter Bill Withers. The song features a groovy bassline, a catchy melody, and Withers’ signature smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics celebrate the simple joys of life and love, urging listeners to appreciate each day and find happiness in the moment. The song’s timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for movies, TV shows, and commercials, and it continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world with its positive message and infectious energy.
10. Shiny Happy People – R.E.M.
“Shiny Happy People” is a cheerful and upbeat song by the American rock band R.E.M. The song features jangly guitars, a catchy melody, and playful vocals by lead singer Michael Stipe and guest vocalist Kate Pierson of the B-52s. The lyrics celebrate the joy of being alive and the beauty of human connection, urging listeners to embrace optimism and kindness in the face of adversity. The song’s upbeat and infectious energy, along with its memorable music video featuring a colorful and diverse cast of dancers, have made it a beloved hit and a quintessential R.E.M. song.
11. The Magic Number – De La Soul
“The Magic Number” is a hip-hop classic by the American group De La Soul. The song features a funky beat, catchy samples, and the group’s signature witty and insightful lyrics. The “magic number” referenced in the title and chorus is three, which the group uses as a metaphor for unity and balance, encouraging listeners to embrace the power of collaboration and community. The song’s unique sound and positive message helped establish De La Soul as one of the most innovative and influential groups in hip-hop history, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
12. Feel The Love – Rudimental ft. John Newman
“Feel the Love” is a high-energy dance track by the British group Rudimental, featuring soulful vocals by John Newman. The song combines electronic beats, brass instruments, and gospel-inspired vocals to create a powerful and uplifting anthem. The lyrics encourage listeners to find strength and inspiration in love, urging them to overcome their fears and doubts and embrace the power of connection. The song’s infectious energy and positive message have made it a hit on dance floors and radio stations around the world, solidifying Rudimental’s place as one of the most exciting and innovative acts in contemporary electronic music.
13. Lonely Boy – Black Keys
“Lonely Boy” is a garage rock anthem by the American duo Black Keys. The song features a driving beat, a catchy guitar riff, and lead singer Dan Auerbach’s soulful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is struggling with loneliness and isolation, but finds solace in dancing and music. The song’s simple yet infectious melody and energetic performance helped establish the Black Keys as one of the most exciting and influential rock acts of the 21st century.
14. Can’t Stop the Feeling! – Justin Timberlake
“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” is a pop hit by Justin Timberlake, co-written and produced by Swedish hitmaker Max Martin. The song features a disco-inspired beat, infectious handclaps, and Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and dance, and to embrace the power of positivity and joy. The song’s catchy melody and feel-good vibe helped make it a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and becoming one of the best-selling singles of 2016. Its upbeat energy and irresistible hook have made it a favorite at parties, weddings, and other festive occasions, cementing its place in pop culture as a timeless dance anthem.
15. Say Hey (I Love You) – Michael Franti & Spearhead
“Say Hey (I Love You)” is a feel-good pop song by Michael Franti & Spearhead. The song features a sunny, upbeat melody, catchy lyrics, and Franti’s signature blend of reggae, rock, and soul influences. The lyrics celebrate the joy of falling in love and the power of positivity, urging listeners to embrace life with open arms and an open heart. The song’s irresistible energy and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of feel-good playlists and romantic soundtracks.
16. No, No, No – Dawn Penn
“No, No, No” is a classic reggae tune by Jamaican singer Dawn Penn. The song features a hypnotic rhythm, Penn’s soulful vocals, and a simple yet unforgettable melody. The lyrics tell the story of a woman rejecting a man’s advances, emphasizing her independence and self-respect. The song’s unique sound and feminist message helped make it a hit in Jamaica and around the world, and it remains a beloved and influential classic in the reggae genre.
17. I’m a Believer – Smash Mouth
“I’m a Believer” is a high-energy pop-rock cover by Smash Mouth of the 1966 hit song by The Monkees. The song features a bouncy rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and lead singer Steve Harwell’s raspy vocals. The lyrics express the joy and disbelief of falling in love, with Harwell proclaiming “I’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I tried.” The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody have made it a fan favorite and a staple of feel-good playlists and movie soundtracks.
18. Crazy in Love – Beyoncé ft. Jay Z
“Crazy in Love” is an iconic R&B and hip-hop collaboration between Beyoncé and Jay Z. The song features a sample from The Chi-Lites’ 1970 song “Are You My Woman (Tell Me So),” as well as Beyoncé’s powerful vocals, Jay Z’s slick rap verses, and a catchy horn section. The lyrics describe the thrill and intensity of being in love, with Beyoncé declaring that she’s “crazy in love” and “got me looking so crazy right now.” The song’s energetic and seductive vibe helped make it a massive hit for the duo and a defining track of the 2000s.
19. Feel Right – Mark Ronson ft. Mystikal
“Feel Right” is a funk-infused hip-hop track by producer Mark Ronson featuring rapper Mystikal. The song is built around a funky bassline, catchy horns, and Mystikal’s energetic and dynamic rap performance. The lyrics are full of braggadocio and swagger, with Mystikal asserting his status as a hip-hop legend and calling out his haters. The song’s infectious groove and powerful vocals make it a standout track on Ronson’s album “Uptown Special.”
20. Snow (Hey Oh) – Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Snow (Hey Oh)” is a melancholic and atmospheric rock ballad by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The song features a hypnotic guitar riff, a haunting melody, and lead singer Anthony Kiedis’ emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on the beauty and complexity of life, using winter imagery as a metaphor for the cycles of change and renewal. The song’s dreamy and introspective mood helped make it a hit for the band and a favorite among fans, and it remains a poignant and evocative example of their unique blend of rock, funk, and soul influences.
21. Lets Go Crazy – Prince
“Let’s Go Crazy” is a rock and funk anthem by Prince and the Revolution, released as the opening track on his album “Purple Rain.” The song features a memorable guitar riff, catchy synthesizer hooks, and Prince’s electrifying vocals. The lyrics encourage listeners to let go of their inhibitions and embrace the joy of life, with Prince proclaiming “We’re all excited, but we don’t know why. Maybe it’s ’cause, we’re all gonna die.” The song’s infectious energy and party atmosphere make it a fan favorite and a staple of Prince’s live shows.
22. Got to Give it Up Pt 1. – Marvin Gaye
“Got to Give it Up Pt. 1” is a funky disco classic by Marvin Gaye. The track features a groovy bassline, infectious percussion, and Gaye’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe a party atmosphere and encourage listeners to let loose and dance, with Gaye singing “I used to go out to parties, and stand around ’cause I was too nervous to really get down. But my body yearned to be free, I got up on the floor and found someone to dance with me.” The song’s catchy melody and celebratory vibe have made it a timeless hit for Gaye and a landmark of the disco era.
23. Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard – Paul Simon
“Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard” is a folk-rock classic by Paul Simon. The track features a catchy guitar riff and Simon’s distinctive vocals, along with a driving rhythm section and horn accompaniment. The lyrics tell the story of two boys getting into trouble and causing a stir in the neighborhood, with Simon singing “Me and Julio down by the schoolyard, see the cop, he don’t mind, he don’t think twice.” The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Simon’s discography.
24. Hey Ya – OutKast
“Hey Ya” is a funky and infectious pop song by OutKast. The track features a catchy guitar riff, a driving beat, and lead singer Andre 3000’s unique vocal style. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of a romantic relationship, with Andre 3000 singing “shake it, shake it, shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture.” The song’s infectious melody and danceable beat made it a massive hit upon release and a defining track of the 2000s.
25. Buddy Holly – Weezer
“Buddy Holly” is a classic alternative rock song by Weezer. The track features a catchy guitar riff and lead singer Rivers Cuomo’s distinctive vocals, along with a driving rhythm section and backing harmonies. The lyrics pay homage to the legendary rock and roll musician Buddy Holly, with Cuomo singing “Oo-ee-oo, I look just like Buddy Holly, oh-oh, and you’re Mary Tyler Moore.” The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Weezer’s discography.
26. Rain on Me – Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande
“Rain on Me” is a dance-pop anthem by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande. The track features a driving beat, soaring vocals from both Gaga and Grande, and a catchy chorus. The lyrics describe the healing power of music and the need to let go of pain and trauma, with Gaga and Grande singing “I’d rather be dry, but at least I’m alive, rain on me, rain, rain.” The song’s upbeat tempo and positive message have made it a hit upon release and a defining track of the pop music scene.
27. Shake It Off – Taylor Swift
https://youtu.be/8xG7mH8i-WE
“Shake It Off” is a catchy pop song by Taylor Swift, featuring an upbeat tempo and infectious melody. The song’s lyrics focus on the theme of resilience, with Swift encouraging listeners to brush off negativity and keep moving forward. The track incorporates elements of pop, hip-hop, and R&B, and features a memorable spoken-word bridge. “Shake It Off” became a commercial success and has become a fan favorite, known for its fun, upbeat vibe.
28. Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra
“Mr. Blue Sky” is a classic rock song by Electric Light Orchestra, featuring an upbeat tempo and bright instrumentation. The song’s lyrics convey a positive message about the arrival of a new day and the hope that it brings. The track features a memorable vocal melody, a catchy guitar riff, and a soaring orchestral arrangement. “Mr. Blue Sky” has become a beloved classic rock anthem and is often associated with uplifting moments and positive vibes.
29. Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
“Don’t Stop Me Now” is a high-energy rock anthem by Queen, featuring Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals and a driving piano riff. The song’s lyrics celebrate living life to the fullest and having a good time, with Mercury singing about feeling invincible and unstoppable. The track is known for its infectious energy, memorable guitar solos, and sing-along chorus, making it a staple of Queen’s live shows and a fan favorite.
30. Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles
“Here Comes the Sun” is a classic Beatles song, written by George Harrison and featuring a bright, upbeat melody and harmonious vocals. The song’s lyrics express hope and optimism, with Harrison singing about the arrival of a new day and the end of a difficult period. The track features a memorable guitar riff, beautiful harmonies, and an uplifting orchestral arrangement. “Here Comes the Sun” has become a beloved classic rock song and a symbol of hope and positivity.
31. Sir Duke – Stevie Wonder
“Sir Duke” is a classic funk and soul song by Stevie Wonder, with a lively horn section and catchy rhythm that is guaranteed to get people dancing. The song is a tribute to Duke Ellington, the jazz legend who inspired Wonder, and features lyrics celebrating the power of music to unite people and bring joy to the world. The track showcases Wonder’s dynamic vocals and musical talent, as well as his ability to blend various genres to create something truly unique.
32. I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” is a funk and soul classic by James Brown, with a memorable horn riff and infectious rhythm. Brown’s electrifying vocals express pure joy and excitement, as he sings about feeling good and having fun. The song’s upbeat tempo and call-and-response style make it a popular choice for dancing and partying, while Brown’s unique style and stage presence helped cement his reputation as the “Godfather of Soul.” “I Got You (I Feel Good)” remains a timeless classic and a staple of Brown’s legacy.
33. Iron Lion Zion – Bob Marley
“Iron Lion Zion” is a reggae song by Bob Marley, released posthumously in 1992. The song features Marley’s signature reggae style with a catchy chorus and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics of the song are about Marley’s own strength and power, comparing himself to a lion. The song is considered a classic in Marley’s catalog and has been covered by several other artists.
34. Moonlight Shadow – Mike Oldfield
“Moonlight Shadow” is a song by British musician Mike Oldfield, released in 1983. The song features a haunting melody with synthesizers, acoustic guitars, and drums, and features vocals by Maggie Reilly. The lyrics of the song are inspired by the book “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien, and tell the story of a man who is haunted by the memory of a woman who was killed in a violent attack. The song was a commercial success and became one of Oldfield’s most popular songs.
35. Song 2 – Blur
“Song 2” is a song by British rock band Blur, released in 1997. The song is a short, fast-paced rock track with distorted guitars and catchy, repetitive lyrics. The song is known for its distinctive “woo-hoo” chorus and has become a fan favorite and a staple at sports events. The lyrics of the song are intentionally nonsensical, with lead singer Damon Albarn admitting that they were inspired by American rock songs and were meant to be a parody of them. The song was a commercial success and help
Macey West 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.
