Music has the ability to inspire, heal, and uplift us in many ways, and perhaps one of its most powerful abilities is to motivate us to help others. Songs that talk about helping others often convey a message of empathy, kindness, and compassion, and encourage us to take action and make a difference in the world. From classic ballads to contemporary pop hits, there are countless songs that remind us of the importance of helping those in need and making the world a better place.
In this list of the top 20 Songs About Helping Others, we will explore a range of musical genres and styles, from soulful R&B to uplifting pop anthems, each with its own unique message of hope and generosity. These songs are sure to inspire you to look beyond yourself and reach out to others in need, whether it’s by volunteering your time, donating to charity, or simply showing kindness to those around you. So sit back, turn up the volume, and let the music move you to make a difference in the world.
1. “I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrandts
“I’ll Be There For You” is a pop rock song by American band The Rembrandts, best known as the theme song for the popular sitcom “Friends”. The song features upbeat guitar riffs and catchy lyrics that evoke a sense of friendship and loyalty. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of life and the promise of being there for one another through thick and thin. With its infectious melody and sing-along chorus, “I’ll Be There For You” has become an enduring pop culture icon that continues to resonate with fans of the show and music lovers alike.
2. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msl2fl3h59I
“Count on Me” is a heartwarming acoustic pop song by American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars, featured on his debut studio album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans”. The song is a cheerful reminder to friends and loved ones that they can always count on you, and that you will be there for them whenever they need support. The uplifting lyrics, coupled with Mars’ soulful voice and strumming guitar, make for a genuinely touching and memorable musical experience. With its universal message of friendship and solidarity, “Count on Me” has become a popular choice for weddings, graduations, and other special events.
3. “Breathe Me” by Sia
“Breathe Me” is an emotional and haunting song by Australian singer-songwriter Sia, featured on her fourth studio album, “Colour the Small One”. The song is characterized by Sia’s distinctive vocals and a minimalist piano melody, which gradually build up to a powerful climax. The lyrics speak to feelings of vulnerability and isolation, with the singer encouraging the listener to open up and be honest with themselves and others. The song gained popularity after being used in the final scene of the TV series “Six Feet Under”, and has since become a fan favorite and an iconic representation of Sia’s unique talent and musical style.
4. “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King
“You’ve Got a Friend” is a timeless classic by American singer-songwriter Carole King, featured on her 1971 album “Tapestry”. The song is a tender and comforting ballad that speaks to the power of friendship and loyalty. The lyrics assure the listener that they have a friend who will be there to support them through good times and bad. With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song has become a beloved classic that has been covered by many artists over the years, including James Taylor, who also had a hit with his own version of the song.
5. “Hold On, I’m Comin’” by Sam And Dave
“Hold On, I’m Comin'” is an upbeat soul song by American duo Sam & Dave, released in 1966. The song features a lively horn section, energetic rhythm guitar, and the electrifying vocal interplay of Sam Moore and Dave Prater. The lyrics are a cheerful message of assurance and support, with the singers telling their listener to “hold on” and that they are “comin'” to help them out. The song became an instant classic of the soul genre and has since been covered by numerous artists, cementing its place in music history as a true icon of the 1960s.
6. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” by Josh Groban
“You’ll Never Walk Alone” is a powerful and uplifting rendition of the classic show tune, originally written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II for the musical “Carousel”. Josh Groban’s version of the song features his signature soaring vocals, backed by a lush orchestral arrangement. The lyrics offer a message of hope and encouragement, with the singer assuring the listener that they are never alone and that someone will always be there to support and guide them. The song has become an anthem of perseverance and unity, often performed at sporting events and in times of communal challenge or loss.
7. “One Call Away” by Charlie Puth
“One Call Away” is a pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, released in 2015. The song is characterized by Puth’s smooth vocals and an upbeat, piano-driven melody. The lyrics offer a message of comfort and support, with the singer promising to always be there for the listener, no matter the circumstances. The song has become a popular choice for romantic dedications and has also been used in films and TV shows. With its catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics, “One Call Away” has become a beloved staple of contemporary pop music, showcasing Puth’s songwriting and vocal abilities.
8. “Try a Little Kindness” by Glen Campbell
“Try a Little Kindness” is a classic country pop song by American singer and guitarist Glen Campbell, released in 1969. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar melody, coupled with Campbell’s warm, earnest vocals. The lyrics offer a message of compassion and generosity, encouraging listeners to reach out to others with small acts of kindness, even in difficult times. The song became an instant hit, reaching the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Campbell’s status as one of the most beloved country music performers of the era. Today, the song remains a timeless classic and a reminder of the power of simple gestures of kindness.
9. “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” by Martina McBride
“I’m Gonna Love You Through It” is a powerful country ballad by American singer Martina McBride, released in 2011. The song features McBride’s soaring vocals, backed by a stirring arrangement of piano and strings. The lyrics tell the story of a woman undergoing treatment for breast cancer, with her partner promising to be there for her through every step of her journey. The song has been praised for its touching and empathetic portrayal of the emotional toll of illness and the importance of support and love during challenging times. “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” has become a beloved anthem of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
10. “I Won’t Let Go” by Rascal Flatts
“I Won’t Let Go” is a moving country ballad by American country group Rascal Flatts, released in 2011. The song features lead singer Gary LeVox’s emotive vocals, backed by a simple but powerful melody of acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. The lyrics offer a message of reassurance and steadfast support, with the singer promising to be there for the listener through all of life’s ups and downs. The song has become a beloved anthem of love and companionship, offering hope and comfort in difficult times. “I Won’t Let Go” is a testament to Rascal Flatts’ songwriting and vocal abilities, and has earned a place in the hearts of many country music fans.
11. “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jrlhn1H1EWw
“Lean on Me” is a soulful classic by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers, released in 1972. The song features Withers’ smooth vocals and a simple, upbeat melody of piano, guitar, and drums. The lyrics offer a message of empathy and community, encouraging listeners to support and rely on each other through life’s challenges. The song became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and infectious groove. Today, “Lean on Me” remains a beloved anthem of hope and unity, an enduring reminder of the power of human connection and mutual support.
12. “Where Is the Love?” by Black Eyed Peas
“Where Is the Love?” is a socially conscious hip-hop track by American group Black Eyed Peas, released in 2003. The song features rapped verses by will.i.am, Taboo, and apl.de.ap, as well as soulful vocals by Fergie, over a catchy beat of piano, guitar, and drums. The lyrics offer a critique of the societal issues of the time, including war, racism, and crime, and encourage listeners to seek solutions through empathy and understanding. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its timely message and catchy production. “Where Is the Love?” remains a powerful and relevant reminder of the importance of social justice and collective action.
13. “Song For A Friend” by Jason Mraz
“Song for a Friend” is a touching acoustic ballad by American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, released in 2008. The song features Mraz’s signature vocals, accompanied by a gentle melody of guitar and percussion. The lyrics offer a message of support and encouragement, with the singer promising to be there for a friend in need, no matter what. The song has become a fan favorite, known for its heartfelt lyrics and tender melody. “Song for a Friend” is a testament to Mraz’s songwriting and vocal abilities, and has earned a place as a beloved classic of contemporary folk-pop.
14. “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams
“(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” is a timeless power ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, released in 1991. The song features Adams’ soulful vocals, backed by a sweeping melody of guitar, piano, and orchestral strings. The lyrics offer a message of deep love and devotion, with the singer promising to do anything and everything for his beloved. The song became an instant classic, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and powerful production. “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” remains a beloved anthem of love and commitment, a timeless tribute to the power of true devotion.
15. “Stand By You” by Rachel Platten
“Stand By You” is a soaring pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Rachel Platten, released in 2015. The song features Platten’s powerful vocals, backed by a driving melody of piano, guitar, and percussion. The lyrics offer a message of steadfast support and unconditional love, with the singer promising to stand by her beloved through all of life’s trials and tribulations. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its uplifting lyrics and catchy production. “Stand By You” remains a beloved anthem of love and loyalty, a testament to the power of human connection and devotion.
16. “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye” by Patty Loveless
“How Can I Help You Say Goodbye” is a poignant country ballad by American singer Patty Loveless, released in 1993. The song features Loveless’ emotive vocals, accompanied by a gentle melody of guitar, piano, and strings. The lyrics offer a message of empathy and support, with the singer offering guidance to a friend who is struggling with loss and grief. The song became a critical and commercial success, earning widespread acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful production. “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye” remains a beloved classic of country music, known for its comforting message and tender melody.
17. “Here for You” by Kygo
“Here for You” is an upbeat dance-pop song by Norwegian DJ and producer Kygo, released in 2015. The song features the soulful vocals of American singer-songwriter Ella Henderson, backed by Kygo’s signature tropical house beats and melodic synth lines. The lyrics offer a message of support and encouragement, with the singer promising to be there for her beloved through all of life’s challenges. The song became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its infectious groove and catchy melody. “Here for You” remains a popular dancefloor favorite, known for its uplifting message and vibrant production.
18. “Hands” by Jewel
“Hands” is a poignant acoustic ballad by American singer-songwriter Jewel, released in 1998. The song features Jewel’s emotive vocals, accompanied by a gentle melody of guitar and percussion. The lyrics offer a message of hope and resilience, with the singer encouraging her listener to find strength in the face of hardship and adversity. The song became a hit, earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful production. “Hands” remains a beloved classic of contemporary folk-pop, known for its inspiring message and tender melody. The song has become a fan favorite and a popular choice for weddings, graduations, and other meaningful occasions.
19. “Say You’ll Be There” by Spice Girls
“Say You’ll Be There” is a catchy and energetic pop song by British girl group Spice Girls, released in 1996. The song features a driving melody of electric guitar and synthesizer, complemented by the group’s signature harmonies and charismatic vocal performances. The lyrics offer a message of friendship and loyalty, with the group expressing their desire for a friend to be there for them through thick and thin. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim for its infectious melody and high-energy production. “Say You’ll Be There” remains a beloved classic of ’90s pop, known for its catchy hooks and fun, upbeat attitude.
20. “Be Kind” by Marshmello (Featuring Halsey)
“Be Kind” is a lively pop song by American producer Marshmello and singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2020. The song features Halsey’s dynamic vocals, backed by Marshmello’s driving beats, infectious synth lines, and electronic flourishes. The lyrics offer a message of compassion and empathy, with the singer encouraging listeners to treat each other with kindness and respect. The song became a hit, earning critical acclaim for its upbeat and optimistic message, as well as its irresistible melody and production. “Be Kind” remains a popular choice for dance parties and other social occasions, known for its uplifting spirit and catchy hooks.
Simon Robinson 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.
