Music has always been a powerful medium for conveying messages, ideas, and emotions. It has the ability to inspire, uplift, and galvanize people to action. Some of the most powerful songs throughout history have been those that seek to create positive change in the world. In this article, we will explore the top 20 songs about changing the world.
The songs on this list are a diverse mix of genres and eras, spanning from the 1960s to the present day. Some of the songs are overtly political, such as Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin'” or Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power”. Others are more subtle in their messaging, such as Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” or Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”. Regardless of their approach, each of these songs has resonated with audiences across the globe and continues to inspire people to this day.
In a world that is constantly changing and facing new challenges, the messages contained within these songs are as relevant as ever. They remind us of the power we hold as individuals to make a difference and create positive change in our communities and the world at large. Whether you’re looking for motivation to keep fighting the good fight or simply want to be uplifted by the power of music, these 20 songs are sure to inspire and leave an impact.
1. “Change the World” by Eric Clapton
“Change the World” is a popular song written and performed by Eric Clapton. It was released in 1996 and became one of the biggest hits of his career. The song has a mellow, acoustic feel and is driven by Clapton’s signature guitar playing. The lyrics are positive and encouraging, with a message of hope and the power of one person to make a difference in the world. The song speaks of the importance of kindness, love, and compassion, and how these qualities can help change the world for the better. The vocals are soulful and heartfelt, with Clapton’s unique voice conveying the emotion of the lyrics perfectly. Overall, “Change the World” is a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today, reminding us all of the impact we can have on those around us and the world as a whole.
2. “One Man Can Change the World” by Big Sean (featuring Kanye West & John Legend)
“One Man Can Change the World” is a song by American rapper Big Sean, featuring guest appearances from Kanye West and John Legend. The song was released in 2015 as a single from Big Sean’s third studio album, “Dark Sky Paradise.”
The song opens with an introspective verse from Big Sean, where he reflects on his journey from humble beginnings to success in the music industry. He speaks about the challenges he has faced along the way and how he has overcome them. He also encourages listeners to strive for their own success, to pursue their dreams, and to never give up on what they believe in.
Kanye West delivers a passionate and thought-provoking verse in which he speaks about the power of one person to make a difference in the world. He speaks of how people can inspire change through their words, their actions, and their beliefs. He encourages listeners to be the change they want to see in the world, to take a stand against injustice, and to be a voice for the voiceless.
John Legend’s smooth and soulful chorus ties the verses together, reminding listeners of the impact they can have on the world. He sings about how one man can change the world, how one act of kindness can spread love and hope, and how one person’s light can shine bright and guide others.
Overall, “One Man Can Change the World” is an uplifting and empowering song that encourages listeners to make a positive impact on the world. Through its lyrics, the song inspires people to believe in themselves, to pursue their dreams, and to never give up on what they believe in.
3. “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan
“Blowin’ in the Wind” is a classic song written by Bob Dylan and released in 1963. It is a protest song that addresses some of the most pressing social and political issues of its time, including racial and economic inequality, war, and peace. The song has a simple, folksy melody and is accompanied by Dylan’s distinctive voice and acoustic guitar. The lyrics are poetic and thought-provoking, asking a series of rhetorical questions that highlight the cruelty and senselessness of war and oppression. The song’s chorus, “How many roads must a man walk down?” has become an iconic refrain, and its message of peace and non-violence continues to resonate with listeners today. “Blowin’ in the Wind” is widely considered one of Dylan’s greatest works and is regarded as one of the defining songs of the 1960s protest movement.
4. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke. The song was released in 1964 and has since become one of Cooke’s most famous and enduring works.
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a powerful ballad that speaks to the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for racial equality in the United States. The song’s lyrics express Cooke’s hope for a better future and his faith that change will come, despite the difficulties and obstacles he and other African Americans faced at the time.
The song’s emotive melody, combined with Cooke’s soulful and powerful voice, creates a moving and stirring performance. Cooke’s passionate delivery of the lyrics conveys the urgency and importance of the message he is trying to convey.
In the years since its release, “A Change Is Gonna Come” has become an iconic and timeless song that has been covered by numerous artists and continues to inspire and influence musicians and listeners alike. The song is widely considered to be one of the greatest protest songs of all time and remains a testament to Cooke’s artistry and activism.
“A Change Is Gonna Come” remains a relevant and important song today, serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice. The song’s message of hope and perseverance continues to inspire people to work towards creating a better world for all.
5. “Be the Change” by MC Yogi
“Be the Change” is a song by MC Yogi, a popular rapper and yoga teacher. The song was released in 2008 and is inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. It is a positive and uplifting track that encourages listeners to be the change they wish to see in the world. The song has a lively beat and catchy melody that are complemented by MC Yogi’s energetic rapping. The lyrics are thought-provoking and inspiring, urging people to take action and make a difference in their communities and beyond. The song is both a celebration of the power of individual action and a call to arms, reminding listeners that they have the power to create positive change in the world. “Be the Change” is an anthem for anyone who wants to make a difference and is a testament to the power of music to inspire and motivate people to take action.
6. “Heal the World” by Michael Jackson
“Heal the World” is a powerful ballad by the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The song was released in 1991 and quickly became one of his most iconic and beloved tracks. With its uplifting message and moving melody, “Heal the World” inspires listeners to make a positive impact on the world and bring peace to all nations. The lyrics speak of unity, compassion, and the need for people to come together to help heal the world. Jackson’s emotive vocals, backed by a lush orchestral arrangement, convey the song’s powerful message with passion and grace. The song has a positive and optimistic tone, encouraging listeners to believe in the power of love and unity to conquer hate and division. “Heal the World” has become a classic and timeless anthem, reminding us all of the importance of taking care of our planet and each other.
7. “Earth Song” by Harry Belafonte
“Earth Song” is a classic song by the legendary musician and activist Harry Belafonte. The song was written in the 1970s and is a powerful expression of Belafonte’s commitment to environmentalism and his concern for the future of the planet. The song has a simple, folk-style melody and is accompanied by Belafonte’s signature baritone voice. The lyrics are a plea to humanity to take better care of the earth and to protect it for future generations. The song speaks of the need to preserve the planet’s natural resources, reduce pollution, and respect the balance of nature. “Earth Song” is an important reminder of the environmental challenges facing the world and the need for individuals to take action to create a more sustainable future. The song remains one of Belafonte’s most popular and enduring works and continues to inspire people to take care of the planet and protect it for future generations.
8. “Same Love” by Macklemore & Ryan (featuring Mary Lambert)
“Same Love” is a powerful and thought-provoking song by Macklemore & Ryan, featuring Mary Lambert. The track was released in 2012 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and capturing the attention of audiences around the world. The song is a musical expression of Macklemore’s support for marriage equality and the LGBTQ+ community.
Throughout the song, Macklemore delivers a heartfelt and impassioned message of acceptance, love, and equality. His lyrics are both personal and political, drawing attention to the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community and advocating for their rights. He raps about the need for society to embrace diversity and recognize the worth of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Mary Lambert’s soulful vocals provide a perfect complement to Macklemore’s rapping, adding a touching and emotional dimension to the track. Her chorus, which repeats the phrase “I can’t change, even if I try, even if I wanted to,” speaks to the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of discrimination and hatred.
The music itself is upbeat and empowering, with a strong beat and catchy melody that make it easy to sing along. The song’s positive message and uplifting spirit have made it a staple of LGBTQ+ rights activism and a source of inspiration for millions of listeners.
In conclusion, “Same Love” is a powerful and transformative piece of music that stands as a testament to the importance of love, equality, and acceptance in a world that can sometimes be unkind and unjust. It is a call to action and a celebration of the human spirit, and its impact will be felt for generations to come.
9. “If I Ruled the World” by MILCK
“If I Ruled the World” is a powerful and thought-provoking song by the singer-songwriter MILCK. The song was released in 2018 and quickly became a viral hit, with the music video accumulating millions of views on YouTube. The song has a sweeping, anthemic melody and is driven by MILCK’s powerful voice. The lyrics are a call to action, imagining a world where kindness and compassion are the norm, and where everyone has the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life. The song is both a celebration of the power of human potential and a reminder of the importance of using that power to create a better world. “If I Ruled the World” is a testament to MILCK’s commitment to activism and her desire to use her music to inspire change and create a more just and equitable society. The song remains a popular and enduring work, and its message of hope and empowerment continues to resonate with listeners today.
10. “Imagine” by John Lennon
“Imagine” by John Lennon is a timeless classic, first released in 1971. The song is a powerful anthem for peace, unity, and a world without borders, religions, and possessions. The song is written in a simple and straightforward manner, making its message universal and relatable to people of all ages and backgrounds. The gentle piano melody provides a serene backdrop to Lennon’s iconic voice as he sings of a world where people live in harmony, imagining a place where everyone can coexist peacefully. The lyrics of the song are both hopeful and melancholic, painting a picture of a world that is still far from perfect, but can be improved if we imagine it to be so. The song has been interpreted in many ways, and its message of peace and unity has continued to inspire people across the world, making it one of the most beloved and enduring tracks of all time.
11. “Keep Changing the World” by Mikeschair
“Keep Changing the World” by Mikeschair is an uplifting and inspiring song that encourages listeners to make a positive impact on the world around them. With its powerful lyrics and soaring melody, the song inspires listeners to take action and make a difference, no matter how small. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar riff, setting a warm and hopeful tone. As the song progresses, the energy builds, with the addition of driving drums, passionate vocals, and soaring harmonies. The lyrics of the song challenge listeners to “let your love be the light that shines bright,” and to “make a change, one step at a time.” With its message of hope, determination, and positivity, “Keep Changing the World” is a powerful anthem that encourages listeners to make a difference and bring about positive change in the world.
12. “That’s How You Change the World” by Newsboys
“That’s How You Change the World” is a song by the contemporary Christian band Newsboys. The song was released in 2020 and is an upbeat and energetic track that celebrates the power of individual action and the impact that one person can have on the world. The song has a lively beat and a catchy chorus that is easy to sing along to, making it a popular choice for worship and live performances. The lyrics are a message of hope and encouragement, urging listeners to take action and make a positive impact in the world, no matter how small their actions may seem. The song is a reminder that each person has the ability to make a difference and that change is possible if enough people come together with a common goal. “That’s How You Change the World” is a testament to Newsboys’ commitment to using their music to inspire and motivate people to take action and make a positive impact in the world. The song remains a popular and enduring work, and its message of hope and change continues to resonate with listeners today.
13. “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 on his 2006 album “Continuum.” The song is an introspective, soulful ballad that reflects on the state of the world and the singer’s desire for change. The lyrics express frustration with societal issues such as political corruption, poverty, and discrimination. Mayer’s emotional, blues-influenced guitar playing, combined with his heartfelt vocals, make this song a powerful commentary on the world’s troubles. Despite its melancholy tone, “Waiting on the World to Change” also has a hopeful message, as Mayer sings about how small acts of kindness and compassion can make a difference in the world. The song has become a fan favorite and is widely regarded as one of Mayer’s best works, showcasing his musical and lyrical skills at their finest.
14. “We Are the World” by USA for Africa
“We Are the World” is a charity single recorded by the supergroup USA for Africa in 1985. The song was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and features an all-star lineup of some of the biggest names in music at the time, including Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Tina Turner, and many more. With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, “We Are the World” quickly became an anthem for the fight against famine and poverty in Africa. The song’s message of unity and compassion continues to resonate with listeners today, and it remains one of the most iconic and memorable songs of the 20th century.
15. “Change the World” by Westlife
“Change the World” is a song by the popular Irish boy band Westlife. The song was released in 2000 and quickly became one of their most popular and enduring tracks. The song has a tender and emotional melody, and is driven by the band’s smooth harmonies and gentle acoustic guitar. The lyrics are a message of hope and encouragement, urging listeners to take action and make a positive impact in the world, no matter how small their actions may seem. The song speaks to the power of individual actions to bring about change, and encourages listeners to use their own unique gifts and talents to make a difference. “Change the World” is a testament to Westlife’s commitment to using their music to inspire and motivate people to take action and make a positive impact in the world. The song remains a popular and enduring work, and its message of hope and change continues to resonate with listeners today.
16. “We’re All in This Together” by Ben Lee
“We’re All in This Together” is a song by Australian singer-songwriter Ben Lee. The upbeat track features a cheerful melody and optimistic lyrics that inspire hope and unity. The song is driven by an acoustic guitar and a steady rhythm section, with Lee’s bright and lively vocal performance taking center stage. Throughout the song, Lee sings about the importance of coming together and supporting one another, no matter what life may bring. The chorus is catchy and uplifting, with Lee repeating the phrase “We’re all in this together” as a testament to the power of togetherness. With its positive message and cheerful vibe, “We’re All in This Together” is a feel-good anthem that is sure to lift your spirits and make you feel part of something bigger. Whether you’re feeling down or just in need of a little encouragement, this song is a must-listen.
17. “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” by Johnny Reid
“Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” is a song by Canadian country singer Johnny Reid. This upbeat and hopeful track was released in 2010 as part of his album “A Place Called Love”. The song features Reid’s smooth and powerful vocals, accompanied by a lively musical arrangement of acoustic guitar, drums, and piano. The lyrics of “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” offer a message of positivity and inspiration, encouraging listeners to believe in themselves and make a difference in the world. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a staple of Reid’s live performances, where audiences can often be heard singing along. With its powerful message and memorable melody, “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” is a song that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day, reminding them of the importance of making a positive impact in the world.
18. “People Help the People” by Birdy
“People Help the People” is a haunting and beautiful song by British singer-songwriter Birdy. The track features delicate piano playing, subtle electronic beats, and Birdy’s ethereal vocal performance. The song is a plea for compassion and kindness, with Birdy singing about the power of love and the importance of helping those in need. The lyrics are both touching and thought-provoking, with Birdy asking questions about the state of the world and the role that each of us can play in making it a better place. The chorus is powerful and emotional, with Birdy repeating the phrase “People help the people” as a call to action. With its tender lyrics and dreamy sound, “People Help the People” is a song that will stay with you long after it’s over. Whether you’re a fan of singer-songwriters, electronic music, or just great songs in general, this is one you won’t want to miss.
19. “Wind Of Change” by Scorpions
“Wind of Change” is a song by the German rock band Scorpions. The song was released in 1990 and quickly became one of the band’s most popular tracks, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has a sweeping, epic melody and is driven by the band’s soaring guitars and lead singer Klaus Meine’s powerful voice. The lyrics are a call to action, urging listeners to embrace change and make a positive impact in the world. The song was written at the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War, and it captures the sense of hope and optimism that was in the air at the time. “Wind of Change” is a powerful and enduring work, and its message of hope and change continues to resonate with listeners today. The song remains one of Scorpions’ most popular tracks and is a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
20. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
“Redemption Song” is a timeless classic written and performed by the legendary Bob Marley. The song was released in 1980 as part of Marley’s final studio album, “Uprising”. It features Marley’s signature powerful vocals, accompanied only by his acoustic guitar, creating a stripped-down and intimate feel. The song is considered one of Marley’s most personal and powerful works, with its lyrics exploring themes of slavery, oppression, and the search for redemption and freedom. The melody is haunting and memorable, with Marley’s powerful voice delivering each word with a deep sense of emotion and conviction. “Redemption Song” is a true masterpiece of reggae music, and its message continues to inspire and resonate with listeners to this day. It is a testament to Marley’s timeless influence and the enduring power of his music.
Edward Tomlin 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.
