Change is a theme that has been explored extensively in music. From political and social upheavals to personal growth and transformation, the power of change has inspired countless songs throughout the years. Whether it’s through upbeat anthems that celebrate progress and growth, or through introspective ballads that reflect on the struggles and hardships that come with change, music has always been a powerful tool for communicating ideas and emotions. Songs about change are a way for artists to express their views on the world and to inspire their listeners to think about the issues that are important to them. They can also provide solace and comfort to those who are going through difficult changes in their own lives. From protest songs to love songs, music has the ability to evoke powerful emotions and to bring people together in the face of adversity. Whether we are seeking inspiration, comfort, or a way to channel our own experiences, Top 20 Songs About Change offer a timeless reminder of the power of music to bring people together and to inspire change in the world.
1. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
“Man in the Mirror” is a song by Michael Jackson, released in 1988 as part of his album “Bad.” The song’s powerful lyrics encourage listeners to take responsibility for their own lives and to make a difference in the world by starting with themselves. With its message of self-reflection and self-improvement, “Man in the Mirror” has become a timeless classic and one of Jackson’s most well-known songs. The upbeat and empowering melody, combined with Jackson’s soulful vocals, makes for a moving and inspiring listening experience. “Man in the Mirror” remains a popular song today, with its message of personal change and empowerment continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.
2. “Tonight, Tonight” by Smashing Pumpkins
“Tonight, Tonight” is a song by American alternative rock band Smashing Pumpkins, released in 1996 as part of their album “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.” The song features a sweeping, orchestral sound and introspective lyrics that explore themes of change and loss. The song’s melody, combined with lead singer Billy Corgan’s emotive vocals, creates a sense of longing and nostalgia. “Tonight, Tonight” has become one of the Smashing Pumpkins’ most well-known and beloved songs, praised for its inventive sound and powerful lyrics. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the band’s ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences and to explore complex emotions through music.
3. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift (featuring Ed Sheeran)
“Everything Has Changed” is a song by Taylor Swift, featuring Ed Sheeran, released in 2013 as part of Swift’s album “Red.” The song is a soft and playful duet that reflects on the changes in a relationship and the new perspective that comes with falling in love. With its folksy sound and easy-going melody, “Everything Has Changed” is a charming and upbeat tune that showcases the chemistry between Swift and Sheeran. The song’s relatable lyrics and infectious chorus have made it a fan favorite, and it remains a staple of Swift’s live performances. “Everything Has Changed” is a charming and cheerful celebration of the transformative power of love, and a testament to the enduring appeal of Taylor Swift’s songwriting.
4. “A Change (Would Do You Good)” by Sheryl Crow
“A Change (Would Do You Good)” is a song by American singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow, released in 1996 as part of her album “Sheryl Crow.” The song features upbeat, roots-rock inspired instrumentation and lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace change and shake off the stagnation in their lives. The song’s catchy melody and catchy chorus have made it a popular and well-known tune, and it remains a staple of Crow’s live performances. “A Change (Would Do You Good)” is an empowering and uplifting song that encourages listeners to take control of their lives and to embrace the opportunities that come with change. With its message of self-reflection and self-improvement, the song is a timeless reminder of the transformative power of change.
5. “The Times They Are A-Changin” by Bob Dylan
“The Times They Are A-Changin'” is a song by American folk singer Bob Dylan, released in 1964 as part of his album of the same name. The song is a protest anthem that addresses the political and social changes taking place during the Civil Rights Movement and calls for action to address the injustices of the time. The song’s simple acoustic arrangement, combined with Dylan’s distinctive voice and powerful lyrics, make for a haunting and impactful listening experience. “The Times They Are A-Changin'” has become one of Dylan’s most well-known and beloved songs, and remains a timeless reminder of the power of music to inspire change and to bring attention to important social and political issues. The song remains a powerful statement of hope and a call to action, and its message continues to resonate with audiences today.
6. “Changes” by Ziggy Marley
“Changes” is a song by Jamaican reggae musician Ziggy Marley, released in 2003 as part of his album “Love Is My Religion.” The song is an upbeat and uplifting tune that reflects on the power of change and the importance of embracing it in order to grow and evolve. With its reggae-inspired rhythm and catchy chorus, “Changes” is a fun and danceable tune that celebrates the transformative power of change. The song’s positive and optimistic message has made it a popular choice for soundtracks and commercials, and it remains a staple of Marley’s live performances. “Changes” is a joyful celebration of growth and progress, and a reminder of the power of music to inspire and uplift.
7. “One Man Can Change The World” by Big Sean
“One Man Can Change The World” is a song by American rapper Big Sean, released in 2015 as part of his album “Dark Sky Paradise.” The song features a motivational message about the power of individual action to bring about change and make a positive impact on the world. With its catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation, “One Man Can Change The World” is an inspiring and uplifting song that encourages listeners to believe in their own ability to make a difference. The song’s message of hope and empowerment has made it a popular choice for soundtracks and commercials, and it remains a staple of Big Sean’s live performances. “One Man Can Change The World” is a testament to the power of positive thinking and the impact that one person can have on the world.
8. “Change the World” by Eric Clapton
“Change the World” is a song by British musician Eric Clapton, released in 1996 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Phenomenon.” The song is a soft and soulful ballad that reflects on the power of love to bring about positive change in the world. With its acoustic guitar and smooth vocal delivery, “Change the World” is a mellow and emotional tune that showcases Clapton’s virtuosity as a singer and songwriter. The song’s inspiring message and memorable melody have made it a fan favorite, and it remains a staple of Clapton’s live performances. “Change the World” is a touching tribute to the power of love and a reminder of the impact that one person can have on the world. The song’s timeless message and beautiful melody make it a true classic of the singer-songwriter genre.
9. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
“Redemption Song” is a song by Jamaican reggae icon Bob Marley, released in 1980 as part of his album “Uprising.” The song is a powerful and political anthem that reflects on the struggles of slavery and colonialism and the importance of freeing one’s mind from mental slavery. With its simple acoustic arrangement and Marley’s impassioned vocal delivery, “Redemption Song” is a haunting and impactful listening experience. The song’s message of hope and empowerment has made it a popular choice for soundtracks and commercials, and it remains one of Marley’s most well-known and beloved songs. “Redemption Song” is a timeless tribute to the power of resistance and the importance of freedom, and its message continues to resonate with audiences today.
10. “Everybody’s Changing” by Keane
“Everybody’s Changing” is a song by English rock band Keane, released in 2004 as part of their debut album “Hopes and Fears.” The song is a melancholic ballad that reflects on the feelings of uncertainty and longing that come with growing up and facing change. With its piano-led arrangement and lead singer Tom Chaplin’s emotive vocal performance, “Everybody’s Changing” is a poignant and moving song that captures the feeling of change in a relatable and universal way. The song’s powerful melody and message of resilience in the face of change have made it a fan favorite, and it remains one of Keane’s most well-known and beloved songs. “Everybody’s Changing” is a touching tribute to the struggles of growing up and the importance of finding one’s own way in a changing world.
11. “I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross
“I’m Coming Out” is a song by legendary American singer Diana Ross, released in 1980 as part of her album “Diana.” The song is an upbeat and celebratory anthem that reflects on the importance of embracing one’s true self and living life on one’s own terms. With its funky bassline and Ross’s powerful vocal performance, “I’m Coming Out” is a danceable and empowering song that has become a classic of the disco era. The song’s message of self-expression and self-discovery has made it a popular choice for LGBTQ+ pride events and a symbol of the fight for equality and acceptance. “I’m Coming Out” is a timeless tribute to the power of authenticity and the importance of living life on one’s own terms, and it remains one of Ross’s most well-known and beloved songs.
12. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a song by legendary American singer Sam Cooke, released in 1964. The song is a soulful and powerful ballad that reflects on the struggles and injustices faced by African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. With its emotive vocal performance and heartfelt lyrics, “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a moving and impactful tribute to the ongoing fight for equality and justice. The song’s message of hope and perseverance has made it a classic of the Civil Rights Movement and a popular choice for political and social activism. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a timeless anthem for change, and its message continues to resonate with audiences today. The song remains one of Sam Cooke’s most well-known and beloved songs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest protest songs of all time.
13. “Changes” by David Bowie
“Changes” is a song by legendary British singer David Bowie, released in 1971 as part of his album “Hunky Dory.” The song is an upbeat and introspective reflection on the passage of time and the inevitability of change. With its memorable melody and Bowie’s unique vocal style, “Changes” has become one of Bowie’s most well-known and beloved songs. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of embracing change and accepting the unpredictable nature of life, and its message has resonated with audiences for decades. “Changes” is widely regarded as a classic of the glam rock era and a timeless tribute to the power of change. The song continues to be a staple of Bowie’s live performances and a beloved classic of his extensive catalog.
14. “Waiting On The World To Change” by John Mayer
“Waiting On The World To Change” is a song by American singer-songwriter John Mayer, released in 2006 as part of his album “Continuum.” The song is a folksy, acoustic-driven protest song that reflects on the disillusionment and frustration felt by many people in the face of social and political problems. With its memorable melody and Mayer’s emotive vocal performance, “Waiting On The World To Change” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Mayer’s live performances. The song’s lyrics express the desire for positive change, but also the frustration with a world that seems unwilling to change. The song’s message of hope and perseverance in the face of difficult circumstances has resonated with audiences for over a decade. “Waiting On The World To Change” is a powerful and impactful tribute to the ongoing struggle for progress and change.
15. “Change” by Faith Evans
“Change” is a song by American singer-songwriter Faith Evans, released in 2000 as part of her album “Faithfully.” The song is a soulful ballad that reflects on the need for personal change and growth. With its smooth, R&B-inspired melody and Evans’ powerful vocal performance, “Change” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Evans’ live performances. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace change and take control of their lives, and its message of empowerment has resonated with audiences for over two decades. “Change” is widely regarded as one of Evans’ best and most memorable songs, and continues to be an inspiring tribute to the transformative power of change.
16. “Changes” by 2Pac
“Changes” is a song by rapper 2Pac, released in 1998 as part of his posthumous album “Greatest Hits.” The song is a powerful ballad that reflects on the social and political issues faced by African Americans in the 1990s. With its haunting, piano-driven melody and 2Pac’s impassioned rap verses, “Changes” has become one of the most influential and enduring protest songs of its era. The song’s lyrics address topics like poverty, violence, police brutality, and the need for social and political change, and its message of hope and resilience has inspired countless listeners. “Changes” remains a powerful anthem for social justice and continues to be widely regarded as one of 2Pac’s best and most impactful songs.
17. “All Things Must Pass” by George Harrison
“All Things Must Pass” is a song by George Harrison, released in 1970 as part of his triple album of the same name. The song is a deeply philosophical reflection on the impermanence of life and the constant cycles of birth, growth, and decay. With its lush, soulful production and Harrison’s insightful lyrics, “All Things Must Pass” is widely regarded as one of the standout tracks of the album and one of Harrison’s best songs. The song’s message of acceptance and resignation has resonated with listeners for decades, and its gentle, timeless quality makes it a timeless classic. Whether as a meditation on life’s ephemeral nature or a call to live in the moment, “All Things Must Pass” remains a profound and beautiful work of art.
18. “Seasons Change” by Expose
“Seasons Change” is a pop song released by the American girl group Exposé in 1987. The song is an upbeat, danceable track that celebrates the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of change. With its cheerful melody, shimmering synths, and catchy chorus, “Seasons Change” quickly became a hit for the group and remains one of their best-known tracks. The song’s message of hope and resilience has made it a timeless classic, inspiring listeners to embrace the ups and downs of life and keep moving forward. Whether as an uplifting anthem or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, “Seasons Change” is a vibrant and memorable song that continues to inspire and delight listeners to this day.
19. “Change” by Taylor Swift
“Change” by Taylor Swift is a powerful and emotional song that reflects on the experiences and emotions of change. The song was written as a tribute to Swift’s father, who was diagnosed with cancer. Through her lyrics, she expresses her pain, fear, and resilience in the face of change and uncertainty. The song showcases Swift’s ability to craft lyrics that are both introspective and relatable. The piano-driven melody, combined with Swift’s powerful vocals, creates a moving and emotional experience for the listener. This song is a testament to the strength and courage it takes to overcome change, and serves as a reminder that no matter what life brings, it’s possible to find hope and healing in the face of adversity.
20. “I Am Changing” by Jennifer Hudson
“I Am Changing” by Jennifer Hudson is a soulful and powerful ballad that showcases the singer’s emotional range and soulful voice. The song is an anthem of self-empowerment and change, with lyrics that express the desire to leave the past behind and embrace a brighter future. The song’s upbeat tempo and strong chorus make it an uplifting and hopeful tune that inspires listeners to make positive changes in their own lives. The song was featured in the movie “Dreamgirls,” and has since become a staple of Hudson’s live performances and a popular choice for karaoke and other sing-along events. With its powerful vocals and lyrics that inspire change, “I Am Changing” is a memorable and timeless song that continues to be relevant and loved by fans today.
Jason Smith 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.
