51 Songs About Overcoming Obstacles, Adversity, Hard Times, Challenges, and Not Giving Up
What kind of music do you need? It does not matter who you are or where you come from, we have all experienced hard times in our lives. Because music is a tool people use to reflect on the past and to help process their emotions, I've compiled this list of 51 songs about overcoming obstacles. When you're experiencing hard times, need to keep trying, or if you just need a little pick-me-up, listen here.
These songs are about getting through hard times and overcoming adversity, challenges, and obstacles. These songs will keep you fighting and remind you of the resilience that lies within you. I've ranked them according to the strength of their message and the universal applicability/relatability of the music and message. There are a wide range of genres represented here. Whether you like pop. country, or opera, you'll find something that resonates with you and there is a lot of inspirational music for difficult times to be found!
I realize that many of these songs could be interpreted as female singers singing about men and relationships (or an implied significant other) which, while empowering, may not necessarily be equally relatable to both men and women or to people whose tough times are not related to their relationships. But the "you" they sing to could be anything or anyone. Remember, it's the thought that counts with respect to the message! Listen with an open mind and you might realize the words also apply to you.
Dedicate these songs to your hardships! Sing them to the pains of your soul. Sing to God, the universe, and/or whatever you believe in. Sing to your cat. Sing to whatever you need to in order to overcome those challenges and go forward.
Songs About Overcoming Obstacles
1-17
| 18-34
| 35-51
|
|---|---|---|
1. "The Comeback"—Danny Gokey
| 18. "Move Along"—All American Rejects
| 35. "Keep Holding On"—Avril Lavigne
|
2. "It's Not Over Yet"—For King and Country
| 19. "The Show Must Go On"—Queen
| 36. "Defying Gravity"—Wicked Musical
|
3. "You're Going to Be OK"—Brian & Jenn Johnson
| 20. "You Are Loved [Don't Give Up]"—Josh Groban
| 37. "Up"—Shania Twain
|
4. "Rise"—Katy Perry
| 21. "Stronger"—Kelly Clarkson
| 38. "Hey Hey Hey"—Michael Franti and Spearhead
|
5. "Fight Song"—Rachel Platten
| 22. "Pocketful of Sunshine"—Natasha Bedingfield
| 39. "I Hope You Dance"—Lee Ann Womack
|
6. "Hero"—Mariah Carey
| 23. "Firework"—Katy Perry
| 40. "I Can See Clearly Now"—Johnny Nash
|
7. "Rise Up"—Andra Day
| 24. "You Gotta Be"—Des'ree
| 41. "Brave"—Idina Menzel
|
8. "When You Believe"—Whitney Houston duet with Mariah Carey
| 25. "Lost in the Echo"—Linkin Park
| 42. "Hey World (Don't Give Up)"—Michael Franti
|
9. "Hall of Fame"—The Script
| 26. "Shake it Out"—Florence + The Machine
| 43. "Hands on the Wheel"—Beth Sass
|
10. "Titanium"—David Guetta
| 27. "Keep Your Head Up"—Andy Grammer
| 44. "Life Uncommon"—Jewel y's Hercules
|
11. "Win"—Brian McKnight
| 28."It's My Life"—Bon Jovi
| 45. "Go the Distance"—Michael Bolton, from Disney
|
12. "Survivor"—Destiny's Child
| 29. "Fighter"—Christina Aguilera
| 46. "I'll Make a Man Out of You"—Roger Bart, from Disney
|
13. "The Climb"—Miley Cyrus
| 30. "Roar"—Katy Perry
| 47. "Let it Go" from Disney's Frozen
|
14. "Skyscraper"—Demi Lovato
| 31."Shake it Off"—Taylor Swift
| 48. "Remember the Name"—Fort Minor
|
15. "Let it Be"—The Beatles
| 32. "Brave"—Sara Bareilles
| 49. "Carry On"—Fun
|
16. "Long Promised Road"—The Beach Boys
| 33. "Shooting Star"—Owl City
| 50. "Do Better"—Say Anything
|
17. "Don't Stop Believing"—Journey
| 34. "I'm Still Standing"—Sing Soundtrack
| 51. "Eye of the Tiger"—Survivor
|
#1. "The Comeback"—Danny Gokey
Album: Rise
Released: 2017
Genre: Christian/gospel
A good song that everyone can relate to (especially after the different challenges we experience in life).
This song is about:
- The reality of life struggles
- Overcoming obstacles
- Being able to come back after feeling defeated
- Not giving up the fight
This is your time, your moment. The fire, the fight, you're golden. You've come so far, so keep going. Oh, here comes the comeback!
#2. "It's Not Over Yet"—For King and Country
Album: Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong.
Released: 2014
Genre: Easy listening
A good song that everyone can relate to at different points in their lives. It has an encouraging message.
This song is about:
- The reality of life struggles
- Overcoming obstacles
- Not giving up
Keep on fighting, out of the dark into the light! Hope is rising. Never give in, never give up! It's not over yet!
#3. "You're Going to Be OK" —Brian & Jenn Johnson
Album: After All These Years
Released: 2017
Genre: Easy listening/Christian
A good song that everyone can relate to at different points in their lives and that has a message of hope, strength, and resilience.
This song is about:
- Getting through a difficult time
- Continuing and fighting even when ready to give up
- Holding on to hope
Follow the light in the darkness!
#4. "Rise"—Katy Perry
Album: N/A
Released: 2016
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- The strength inside that allows us to rise and overcome obstacles
- Rising up and not giving up
Don't just survive; thrive!
#5. "Fight Song"—Rachel Platten
Album: Fight Song
Released: 2014
Genre: Pop
This anthem rocks and is empowering. Could this be your "Fight Song"?
This song is about:
- Fighting for and taking ownership of your life
- Overcoming obstacles
- Believing in yourself even when no one else does
Send big waves into motion!
#6. "Hero"—Mariah Carey
Album: Music Box
Released: 1993
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- The answer and strength inside us
- The people who can help us along our way
A hero lies in you!
#7. "Rise Up"—Andra Day
Album: Cheers to the Fall
Released: 2015
Genre: R&B/Soul
I just heard this song recently and I was hooked. Such an amazing and beautiful song about the power and capacity of the human spirit.
This song is about:
- Rising up
- Not giving up
- Staying strong and going on even when you're tired
Move mountains. Find the fighter. Rise up!
#8. "When You Believe"—Whitney Houston Duet With Mariah Carey
Album: The Prince of Egypt Soundtrack
Released: 1998
Genre: Contemporary R&B.
This song is about:
- Believing in what can be
- Having faith and not giving up
- Achieving things and overcoming adversity
You can achieve when you believe!
#9. "Hall of Fame"—The Script
Album: #3
Released: 2012
Genre: Pop
Before "Fight Song" made it to number one on this list, reader-suggested "Hall of Fame" held the #1 spot for a long time. It's a great song.
This song is about:
- Not giving up on one's goals or dreams
- Working hard against all odds in order to get where one wants to go
- Achieving and finding greatness in oneself
- Eventually reaching the goal
- Being great in whatever you decide to do
Be a champion!
#10. "Titanium"—David Guetta
Album: Nothing but the Beat
Released: 2011
Genre: House, Dance/electronic
This song is about:
- Being strong against obstacles and opposition
- Rising up again after falling
- Continuing on
Listen: Titanium
You are titanium!
#11. "Win"—Brian McKnight
Album: Men of Honor
Released: 2000
Genre: R&B
This song is about:
- The importance of not giving up and rising again, even if you fall
- Self-dependence and self-reliance
Listen: Win
Get up and try again!
#12. "Survivor"—Destiny's Child
Album: Carmen: A Hip Hopera Soundtrack
Released: 2001
Genre: Pop
Beyoncé is quoted with having written "Survivor" in order to write Destiny's Child "out of all [the] negativity" that was surrounding the group at one point in time. Could it be used to get you out of a negative space?
This song is about:
- Being a survivor
- Not giving up
- Not stopping
- Working harder
- Making it
- Doing the positive opposite of the negative people expect
- Gaining happiness outside of darkness and sadness
- Being positive and earning respect
You're a survivor!
#13. "The Climb"—Miley Cyrus
Album: Hannah Montana: The Movie
Released: 2009
Genre: Country pop
This song is about:
- Focusing on the journey and not the destination
- Overcoming struggles and adversity
- Recognizing the merit in the struggle
- The importance of continuing to try
Keep on climbing!
#14. "Skyscraper"—Demi Lovato
Album: Unbroken
Released: 2011
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Having/finding strength
- Fighting against negativity
- Rising and getting up against odds, resistance, personal struggles, etc.
Rise from the ground!
#15. "Let it Be"—The Beatles
Album: Let It Be
Released: 1970
Genre: Rock
In troubled times, we just have to wait and work hard to see our troubles through.
This song is about:
- Finding oneself in times of trouble and darkness
- Spirituality
- Words of wisdom
- Finding answers
- Having light and shining even in darkness
- Sometimes you can't change the world, you can only change your reaction to it
Listen: Let it Be
Sometimes the hardest part about our challenges is the fact that we do not have an answer to them or a way out of them.
#16. "Long Promised Road"—The Beach Boys
Album: Surf's Up
Released: 1971
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Recognizing life's challenges
- Working through the difficult experiences in life
- Facing and overcoming one's challenges and obstacles
Listen: Long Promised Road
Hit hard at the battle that's confronting you!
#17. "Don't Stop Believing"—Journey
Album: Escape
Released: 1981
Genre: Rock
This song is about:
- The universal experiences in life
- Some win; some lose: we're in it together
- Keep believing
Keep on believin'!
#18. "Move Along"—All American Rejects
Album: Move Along
Released: 2005
Genre: Emo/hardcore
This song is about:
- Keeping strong
- Making it through
- Moving along
Move along to make it through!
#19. "The Show Must Go On"—Queen
Album: Innuendo
Released: 1991
Genre: Classic Rock
I was exposed to this song through the movie Moulin Rouge and really liked that version. It is so powerful, especially in the context of the story. There are so many different voices present in this song. All of them are powerful! I looked up the original by Queen and found it to be good too. It just depends on your preference. Check them both out below.
This song is about:
- Fundamental questions: What are we living for? Why bother?
- The masks people wear to protect themselves and others
- Feeling trapped
- Finding the will to carry on
The show must go on.
#20. "You Are Loved [Don't Give Up]"—Josh Groban
Album: Awake
Released: 2006
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Knowing that you are loved
- Recognizing the challenges in life and the weight of the world
- Encouragement and motivation
You are loved!
#21. "Stronger"—Kelly Clarkson
Album: Stronger
Released: 2011
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Gaining strength through experience
- Standing taller instead of falling down
- The power in just me, myself, and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
#22. "Pocketful of Sunshine"—Natasha Bedingfield
Album: Pocketful of Sunshine
Released: 2008
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Possessing inner strength
- Knowing your power
- Having an inner escape from external problems
- Sticks and stones won't break me
Listen: Pocketful of Sunshine
Know that you'll be alright.
#23. "Firework"—Katy Perry
Album: Teenage Dream
Released: 2010
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Being what you can be despite the challenges
- Letting your power shine
- Knowing that low times will end
Ignite your light!
#24. "You Gotta Be"—Des'ree
Album: I Ain't Movin'
Released: 1994
Genre: Neo-soul
This song is about:
- Being bad, bold, wiser, hard, tough, stronger, cool, calm, and staying together
- Releasing fear and finding your inner strength
- Love will save the day
Challenge what the future holds!
#25. "Lost in the Echo"—Linkin Park
Album: Living Things
Released: 2012
Genre: Hard Rock
This song is about:
- Being strong
- Keeping on and fighting for yourself
- Making it through, not holding back, holding yourself up
Listen: Lost in the Echo
You can't be stopped!
#26. "Shake it Out"—Florence + The Machine
Album: Ceremonials
Released: 2011
Genre: Alternative Pop
This song can have a couple of interpretations. One of them is symbolic and inspiring, and fits with the message of this hub. The other, based on the lyrics and music video, is darker and occult in meaning. I include this song in this hub for the former interpretation.
What to take from this song:
- Overcoming regrets and going forward
- Leaving the past behind
- Overcoming darkness and having hope
- Letting go of one's demons
Shake it out!
#27. "Keep Your Head Up"—Andy Grammer
Album: Andy Grammer
Released: 2011
Genre: Rock
This song is about:
- Keeping your head up
- Keeping on when things get difficult and complicated
- Remembering that you'll turn out fine
Listen: Keep Your Head Up
Keep your head up!
#28."It's My Life"—Bon Jovi
Album: Crush
Released: 2000
Genre: Rock
This song is about:
- Living life while you can
- Making the most of life
- Fighting for what is important in your life and in life
Listen: It's My Life
Live while you’re alive!
#29. "Fighter"—Christina Aguilera
Album: Stripped
Released: 2002
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- The experiences that make us stronger, wiser, faster, smarter
- Being a fighter
- Having a more resilient response to people who have influences in our lives
Pain makes you that much stronger.
#30. "Roar"—Katy Perry
Album: Prism
Released: 2013
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Getting up off the ground and rising
- Overcoming adversity
- Being your own hero
Go from zero to your own hero!
#31. "Shake it Off"—Taylor Swift
Album: 1989
Released: 2014
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Shaking/brushing things off
- Not letting things and other people get to you
- Continuing to move on and go forward when there is resistance
Listen: Shake it Off
Shake it off!
#32. "Brave"—Sara Bareilles
Album: The Blessed Unrest
Released: 2013
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Choosing between being small or being powerful
- The process and importance of being brave
- Getting enough bravery to say what you need/want to say
- Learning to take care of yourself
Show how big your brave is!
#33. "Shooting Star"—Owl City
Album: The Midsummer Station
Released: 2012
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Shining through darkness and no matter where you are
- Illuminating in a world that will try to bring you down
Shine no matter where you are!
#34. "I'm Still Standing"—Sing Soundtrack
Album: Sing Motion Picture Soundtrack
Released: 2016
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Coming out as survivor through difficult hardship
- Picking up the pieces of one life and continuing forward
Stay standing!
#35. "Keep Holding On"—Avril Lavigne
Album: The Best Damn Thing
Released: 2007
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Continuing to persevere through difficult times
- Being strong for others through hardship
- Knowing that you will come through it
Just stay strong.
#36. "Defying Gravity"—Wicked Musical
Album: Wicked Musical Soundtrack
Released: 2003
Genre: Show tune
This song is about:
- Believing in oneself
- Being brave enough to make the best choices in life
- Risking big changes
- Inspiring others to do the same
- Leaving behind the old/past for the new/present and future
Defy gravity!
#37. "Up"—Shania Twain
Album: Up!
Released: 2002
Genre: Country
This song is about:
- Understanding of those frustrating times
- Knowing bad as things are, things get better
- It can only go up from here
Listen: Up
Go up from here!
#38. "Hey Hey Hey"—Michael Franti and Spearhead
Album: The Sound of Sunshine
Released: 2010
Genre: Jamband
This song is about:
- Holding on in hard times
- Keeping things in perspective
- Remembering that things are possible
Don't let another moment slip away!
#39. "I Hope You Dance"—Lee Ann Womack
Album: I Hope You Dance
Released: 2000
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Holding on in hard times
- Giving yourself a chance
- Choosing hope
- Choosing to continue on and holding on to what's important
Listen: I Hope You Dance
Give faith a fighting chance!
#40. "I Can See Clearly Now"—Johnny Nash
Album: The Harder They Come
Released: 1972
Genre: Reggae
This song is about:
- Overcoming obstacles
- Having clarity after a difficult situation and going forward
- Having a fresh start in a new day
Listen: I Can See Clearly Now
You can make it now.
#41. "Brave"—Idina Menzel
Album: I Stand
Released: 2008
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Finding strength, courage, and motivation within oneself
- Doing things on one's own
Listen: Brave
It's your turn to be brave.
#42. "Hey World (Don't Give Up)"—Michael Franti
Album: All Rebel Rockers
Released: 2008
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Not giving up on oneself
- Not giving up on the world
- Some of the struggles and injustices of the world
Hey world, don't give up!
#43. "Hands on the Wheel"—Beth Sass
Album: Beth Sass
Released: 2017
Genre: Folk
This song is about:
- Finding strength within yourself
- Managing through hard parts
You've got the wheel and have nothing to fear but fear itself!
#44. "Life Uncommon"—Jewel
Album: Spirit
Released: 1998
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Living with love and bravery
- Letting go of one's chains
- Having strength and resilience in hard times
Listen: Life Uncommon
Live a life uncommon!
#45. "Go the Distance"—Michael Bolton, from Disney's Hercules
Album: Hercules Soundtrack
Released: 1997
Genre: Musicals, Children's music
This song is about:
- Going the distance
- Reaching a goal against obstacles
- Persistence
You can go the distance!
#46. "I'll Make a Man Out of You"—Roger Bart, from Disney's Mulan
Album: Mulan Soundtrack
Released: 1998
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Challenging yourself
- Rising to the occasion
- Finding your center and best self
Listen: I'll Make a Man Out of You
With all the strength of a raging fire!
#47. "Let it Go" from Disney's Frozen
Album: Frozen Soundtrack
Released: 2013
Genre: Pop
This song is about:
- Letting go of the things that hold us back
- Overcoming obstacles
- Self-acceptance
Let it go!
#48. "Remember the Name"—Fort Minor
Album: The Rising Tied
Released: 2005
Genre: Hip-hop
This song is about:
- What it takes to succeed
- Overcoming obstacles in order to reach one's goals
- Believing in oneself
- Not giving up
Listen: Remember the Name
You have every reason to remember the name!
#49. "Carry On"—Fun
Album: Some Nights
Released: 2012
Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop
This song is about:
- The importance of carrying on and continuing even in difficult times
- Being able to find one's way and find strength even when lost and alone
Carry on!
#50. "Do Better"—Say Anything
Album: Say Anything
Released: 2009
Genre: Punk
This song is about:
- Doing better
- Going beyond mediocrity
Listen: Do Better
You could do better!
#51. "Eye of the Tiger"—Survivor
Album: Eye of the Tiger
Released: 1982
Genre: Rock
This song is about:
- Rising to the challenge
- Surviving
- Overcoming obstacles
Get back on your feet!
Great Albums by These Artists
Album
| Artist
| Release Year
|
|---|---|---|
"...Is a Real Boy"
| Say Anything
| 2004
|
"The Rising Tied"
| Foret Minor
| 2005
|
"Spirit"
| Jewel
| 1998
|
"Yell Fire!"
| Michael Franti
| 2006
|
"Reputation"
| Taylor Swift
| 2017
|
"New Jersey"
| Bon Jovi
| 1988
|
"News of the World"
| Queen
| 1977
|
"Abbey Road"
| The Beatles
| 1969
|
"Just Whitney"
| Whitney Houston
| 2002
|
"Rise"
| Danny Gokey
| 2017
|
Do you feel better yet?
I hope you found some songs that can be of use to you in one form or another.
Keep on goin', believin', fightin', survivin', and thrivin'!
If you're in the mood for more motivation, I've compiled 28 Christian Songs for Overcoming Obstacles, Hard Times, Adversity and Not Giving Up.
And if you're ever in the mood for sadness, I've compiled a list of 33 Beautiful Emotional Songs and a list of The Most Powerful, Beautiful, and Epic Movie Scores for your listening pleasure.
When life hands you lemons, will you be listening to some of these songs while you make lemonade?
- 41% Yes
- 11% No
- 11% Maybe
- 37% I'm already drinking the lemonade to this music.
Questions & Answers
Why don't these songs follow the epic hero cycle?
This list is organized according to the strength of the songs' message and the universal applicability/relatability of the music and message, but I do think that a music list following the epic hero cycle is a good idea for a future hub!
Helpful 2Why isn't "Hard Times" by Paramore on here?
I hadn't heard that song before you mentioned it. While it has a catchy and almost upbeat feel concerning hard times, the message in the song doesn't have much in it that uplifts during hard times. It's not quite a fit for this list, but it was neat to hear the song.
Helpful 2
© 2012 Nalini Marquez
Comments
AUTHORHi AmandaAmm,
Thank you for your message and for letting me know that some of the songs on this list were of help to you up to the day of your surgery. From your message, I know that there were many struggles and sacrifices involved, and I am glad that this music was able to help you in a difficult time. "Fight Song" is a great and empowering song; I think some people weren't able to appreciate it after hearing it so much and it being associated with different causes and contexts but the reason it was so played and used for different causes and contexts was because it was as empowering and as positive as it was. This list has many different songs and styles so hopefully people are able to take what they need and leave what they don't, which is fine like you said. :-) Sending you much health and light in your recovery and journey!
Nalini
It is a shame so many are disappointed with "Fight Song". I am a single mom who was given 2 weeks notice to get from PA to CA for life saving brain surgery.. That song and a good chunk from this list were on a rotating cycle up to the day of surgery. Music gives courage and it heals, not every song will be "your thing". And that is fine. But damn let people enjoy things
- AUTHOR
Hi kay5683,
Thank you for your message and I apologize for the delay in response. I had not heard this song before and you are right that it starts off slow and goes from talking about how you can't go on but then the perspective changes to there always being something or someone to fight for. I hope the song is able to help others too and I will keep the song in mind for when I go back to adding songs to this hub. Thanks again and I hope you are doing well.
Nalini
- AUTHOR
Hi Majjii,
I am glad you found three songs that you liked and thank you for your opinion and for dropping by.
Have a great day,
Nalini
There are 3 good songs the journey , survivor and the script. The rest are not good like Demi lovato seriously? Lol. When I need trouble you need something that help you change state not to go in it and the more you overthink you get more depressed. Those 3 gives motive to attack first obstacle.
- AUTHOR
Hi uatu zwatcher,
Thank you for your comment and for sharing your "Fight Song" :-). I think I've heard the chorus of that song but I am going to give it a "true listen" as I don't think I've heard the whole thing. I look forward to checking it out :-).
Happy Holidays,
Nalini
- AUTHOR
Hi Lukiz Tsjzi,
You are most welcome and thank you for the comment! I apologize for the delay in responding; HP didn't show me that I had this message.
Happy Holidays,
Nalini
I love all of these songs! I feel like this song should be up there. This song is very underrated and usually not known but it has helped me in many ways. It isn't your basic song about overcoming. It starts out slow and talks about how you might feel like you can't go on but towards the end it picks up and reminds me there is always something or someone to fight for. I think you should give it a listen too, even if it never gets posted or noticed, I know this song isn't popular or known but hopefully it will help people like it helped me. If you lose yourself and need to remember who you are I think you should give this a listen too.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6Qc7eOiqtI
when i was a teen my "fight song" was "We're Not Gonna Take it" by twisted sister
- AUTHOR
Hi whatwhat9, thank you for your opinion. Have a nice day!
Nalini Marquez
Rachel Platten "Fight Song" #1? This is the most uninspired song about being inspired I've ever heard. It shouldn't even be on the list but article was probably done by someone 18 years old.
- AUTHOR
Hi ProfessorTaudio, thank you for your comment, for the vote up, and for checking out my hub! I am glad you love these songs and hope that they give you inspiration! :-)
Have a wonderful day,
Nalini
I love these songs! There are many inspiring tracks on here Super hub! Voted up, Great Job!
- AUTHOR
Hi greeneyedblondie, thank you for your comment and for appreciating the growth of this list! I am glad to see it grow too and to have people enjoy it. :-) Have a wonderful day! Nalini
- AUTHOR
Hi Adolfodylan, thank you for your comment and for checking out the hub. Have a great day! Nalini
This list just keeps on getting bigger! I love it!
hai
I Can See video so nice
- AUTHOR
Hi GJones100, I like listening to that song too. It is an empowering song and it does make it like things are not as bad as they seem. Have a wonderful day! Nalini
Mariah Carey's "Hero." Listening to that songs makes me feel that things are not bad as them seem.
- AUTHOR
Hi bryanmatthew, thank you for your comment. I am glad that you love most of the songs listed here and that some of these songs are already on your iPod! I think you are the first commenter to name "I Can See Clearly Now" as one of their favorites. It is nice to see that there is something that fit for you and that you enjoyed the video for "Carry On." I wish you a wonderful day!
- AUTHOR
Hi GlennAnderson856, you are most welcome! I am glad I was able to inspire you to create that playlist and hope that it provides a little more motivation on the days you need it :-). Have a wonderful day!
Hi,
You have a great list..i love most of the songs you lasted in this blog. Especially "I Can See Clearly Now by Johnny Cash" and the video of "Carry On" by Fun is really joyful...Some of these songs are already on my iPod.
Thank you for the list Nalini, you have inspired me to create a playlist for those days that just need a little more motivation :)
- AUTHOR
Hi techwindow, thank you for your comment and you're welcome for the list. I am happy to share it with you! :-). I hope you find some songs here that change your mood in a positive way and that make you feel stronger and empowered.
Have a wonderful day,
Nalini
- AUTHOR
Hi Hanzamfafa, thank you for your comment and you are most welcome for the hub! I am glad you like all the songs in this list :-). Welcome to HubPages and thank you for the follow. :-)
I wish you a wonderful day, cheers!
Nalini
Although music changes your mood and makes you feel stronger, I don't know any of the songs mentioned above. I shall listen them sometime. Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Your list is amazing. Thanks for sharing us your Hub. I actually like all the songs in your list. Cheers!
- AUTHOR
Hi Kitchenapparatus,
Thank you for your comment and you are most welcome for the list! I like to listen to these type of songs when I work too :-). I hope these songs keep you motivated!
Have a wonderful day :-),
Nalini
- AUTHOR
Hi EthanNelson,
Thank you for your comment and for the song suggestions! I will look into those when I am updating the list and look forward to hearing the music. I am glad that the music in this hub is going to help you with your video project. It is wonderful to hear that this hub is being used to help others in such varied and new ways. Best to you on your project and have a wonderful day!
Nalini
Thank you nailini for give us nice songs list ......when i work , i like to listen this type songs :) :) thanks again
This list is going to help me with a music video project for a Video Production class I am in. I have to make a music video. The one that stands out right now is Linkin Park, Lost in the Echo. So thanks for the list. Going to help me the the project. Now I just have to film and edit the video by Monday.
Songs I think could be added is:
"Rise Today" by Alter Bridge.
"The End is Where We Begin" by Thousand Foot Krutch
"Rise" by Skillet
"Sick of it" by Skillet
Again, thanks for the list!
Ethan Nelsen
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Hi Discordzrocks, thank you for your comment and song suggestion. I don't think I've heard that song but I will check it out!
Have a wonderful day,
Nalini
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Hi AlexJ123, thank you for your comment and I am glad you like the list! I agree that lots of modern pop music (or music in general) has lost or denied its true ability to convey powerful (and positive) messages as a form of art. Hopefully we come to hear more music that conveys these kinds of messages in the future as that is music of the best kind!
Have a wonderful day,
Nalini
1, 21 guns, put down your arms. DOES ANYONE REMEMBER TWENTY ONE GUNS, ANYONE.
Hi Nalini, you have a great list of inspirational songs here which carry some really important messages. I think lots of modern pop music has simply lost or denied its true ability to convey powerful messages as a form of art. With this list of songs you remind us of how influential music can be. Great job! :)
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Hi Jordi Bassaganas, thank you for the comment and follow. I think that's one of the things that makes music great. Very few things can do that and music does it so well. Welcome to HubPages :-).
Have a wonderful day,
Nalini
Music is so powerful, it goes directly to both your heart and brain.
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Hi Essay buy,
Thank you for the comment and for checking out the hub.
Have a great day!
Nalini
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Hi Christy Maria, I agree with you that music has a very powerful effect on how people think and feel, and it can definitely be used as a type of therapy to cope with difficult feelings (such as depression). That is one of the things that makes music pretty impressive! It's a language of its own that speaks to us and helps us in many ways. I am glad you found some song ideas!
Have a great day!
Nalini
interesting
Very interesting article. I can definitely say that when I am feeling down or that my confidence has taken a toll I tend to look for songs which are going to bring good vibes and lift up my spirits. Music has a very powerful effect on how people think and feel; therefore, songs like this can be extremely helpful. Even for those who suffer from mental illness use music as a type of therapy to cope with their feelings. Thanks for the song ideas!
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Hi JohnnyBeis,
I (the hub author/Nalini Marquez) am the one who checks the messages and adds songs to the list. I haven't really had time lately to update as much as I used to but once I have more time I will be updating my hubs and this list. I am always up for terrific and encouraging songs that will help others and so I look forward to listening to that song and updating the list! Thank you for your comment and song suggestion. I wish you a wonderful day :-)!
Nalini
IDK who checks these messages or who adds songs to the list, but I would like for that person (people) to listen to Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthew's "I'm Alive." It is a terrific encouraging song that may help many. Thank you.
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Hi trusouldj, thank you for your comment and for the song suggestion! I will check it out :-). Have a wonderful day!
Nalini
Splendid job. Try also, "Richest Man on Earth" by Paul Overstreet
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Hi Bob, you're welcome! I hope you find something that you like in the newer artists and thank you for the song recommendation! (It's now #11).
Have a great day,
Nalini
Thanks for this list - lot of newer artists that I'll have to check out. From my Baby Boom generation, I would recommend "Long Promised Road" by the Beach Boys.
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Hi Lukiz Tsjzi, you're welcome! I am glad you liked it :-).
Thank you for this post
You're welcome!
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Thank you Kristen! :-)
My pleasure Nalini. You too
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Hi Kristen, thank you for checking out the songs and for the comment. I am glad hearing a song from my song selection is empowering and uplifting as that is what I wanted it to be! I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. :-)
Great list, Nalini. It's so empowering and uplifting to hear a song from your song selection.
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Hi wiseheads,
Thank you for your comments and for taking the time to check out my hub! I am glad you found some songs that you liked and that were interesting and encouraging. Happy listening :-).
Nalini
I agree with Christina Aguilera on 'Fighter'. You must fight adversity with all you got. Thumbs up.
Andy Grammer -Keep Your Head Up. Can one really keep his head up, that way always?
"Move Along" by the All American Rejects is quite creative: good stuff guys.
Demi Lovato" Skyscraper is interesting. I like it. Thumbs up.
The Script's "Hall of Fame". I like the black guy with young Mandela kind of hair style: nice one and nice story.
Michael Franti's "Hey World (Don't Give Up)" is really encouraging. I like it.
I like this movie title: Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor. it is nice and interesting.
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Hi sammy, I'm glad you love the list and you are most welcome! Happy listening. :-)
I love this collection of inspirational songs. Thanks Nalini
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Hi Robert, based on what you've sad and the reviews I've read about it, it sounds like an interesting movie. I will add it to my list of movies to watch for future. :-)
Hi Nalini, it is a sad movie, taking place as it does during WWII, but it has a happy ending.
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Hi bluebird, I am glad you found some songs you like and thank you for the positive and encouraging comment! Downer songs in moderation can sometimes help in catharsis up to a certain point and only for certain states, but after that it only makes things worse and feeds negative things. As an overall approach and process, I agree with you and think it's better to listen to uplifting songs in times like that.
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Hi pstraubie48, I am glad many of these songs are able to soothe the raw edges and calm the angst! Thank you for your lovely and positive comment, and for sharing the hub. I send you loving and positive angels too. Have a wonderful and blessed day. :-)
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Hi Robert Levine, thank you for the comment and song suggestions! I haven't heard those songs but I will check them out :-).
And thank you for sharing that quote with me. I haven't seen Captain Corelli's Mandolin but based on that quote, it seems like the movie would be sad (especially since Cruz's character sees nothing to sing about). As a quote, and I imagine in the context of the movie, it's a good reminder of the importance and power of music/singing at important points in life, in hard times, and when we can't find things to sing about.
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Hi Learn Things Web, I am glad you like the list and thank you for the song suggestions! I will check those out :-).
Lots of good songs here! I have found from experience it's better to to stay away from the downer songs when you're down, that only makes it worse, better to listen to uplifting songs in times like that. I like this hub and the way you've put it together, great job!
Many of these are songs that I have listened to many times as I find music soothes the raw edges and calms the angst..
Great collection
Angels are on the way to you this afternoon ps
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I haven't heard most of the songs on the list, and haven't heard of many of the artists.
Some other songs I would recommend are "My Morning Song" by the Black Crowes," "Stuck in a Moment" by U2," "Thunder Road" by Bruce Springsteen, "Series of Dreams" by Bob Dylan.
In the movie Captain Corelli's Mandolin, Penelope Cruz's character says to Captain Corelli, "What is there to sing about, anyway?" Corelli replies, "People sing when a marriage is celebrated, when a baby is baptized; men sing as they work, soliders sing as they march--and yes, there is singing when people die. I have always found something to sing about, and for that I cannot apologize."
Great list. Everybody Hurts by REM and Animal by Kesha are two other great inspirational songs.
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Hi minato, thank you for your comment and feedback. I am glad you like the list and I hope that these songs inspire you for whatever you need and that you have inspiration-filled days. :-)
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Hi Gymterest, thanks for the positive words and encouragement! I can't take all the credit as a lot of songs were reader-suggested, but I do like or "approve" of most of the songs here. I agree with you in that it is hard to battle with challenges, and that it is great to get all the help that we can get. Hopefully we can all help each other in that process on this planet. :-)
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Hi Ruby H Rose, I am glad this list was a part of uplifting your spirits and that some of your old time favorites are here. Music is a breath of life! Good and uplifting music is always a great addition to life. I hope you enjoy the videos too. I tried to keep the original music videos for most of the songs but I wasn't able to find that for some songs.
Hi, thanks for these songs, you have good taste! It's hard to battle with challenges, so it is great to get all the help that we can get. Nice post, keep up the useful posting!
I like your list. It seems we have kind of similar taste when it comes to music choice. I need songs like this to inspire me every day. Thanks.
A fabulous music list, uplifted my spirits just reading through the list and recognizing old time favorites that still make me happy. Music is a breath of life as far as I am concerned. Some interesting videos too, as I just have to go back and click another one or two....
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Hi suraj punjabi, I like those two songs too. It's interesting that your two favorites reflect related but different stages or approaches ("Letting it be"/learning to accept and finding the answer, and being able to achieve miracles through believing and/or once you believe). They're both part of important stages.
I will try to keep the hub updated with more songs when I can. :-)
Nalini
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Hi Linda, nice to meet you too! :-) I am glad you enjoyed the hub and that you are looking forward to reading my other hubs as well. Thank you for the kind and encouraging comment. I agree with you on music and I think that that is part of what makes it great.
Nalini
The Beatles Let it be is probably one of my favorite songs of all time. That and When you believe by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston (RIP). Keep updating this amazing hub!
Hi Nalini what a fun and very interesting hub to read. Nice meeting you. I really enjoyed the hub and I look forward to reading your others as well. Music can always move you and make you feel something wonderful or something sad. Linda
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Hi Sam Tumblin,
Thank you! Happy listening. :-)
Nalini
Well detailed I can see why it's hard to maintain this post. Thanks!
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Hi healingheart80,
Thank YOU for your beautiful message and for fighting through your depression. I made this list so it could be used to help and uplift others through whatever they needed it for and I am grateful that it is being used in this way and that the songs in this list gave you inspiration to keep fighting through. Don't give up! You are stronger than you think and you are just as wonderful. :-)
May God bless and guide you,
Nalini
Thank you so much for this list. I am going through a very bad bout of depression and I'm constantly looking for something to uplift me. Even though I cried my eyes at on most of the songs, they still gave me inspiration to keep fighting through this. I think I'm going to download them onto a c.d. to listen to all the time.
Thanks again. You're wonderful for making this :-)
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Hi spotlight19,
Thank you for your comment and for voting up! I am glad that some of your favorites made it into the list and that these songs inspire you in the way that you mentioned. That is what I hoped these songs/this list would do! :-)
I wish you a wonderful day,
Nalini
Great article I like the list of songs that you put some are my favorite and they do really inspire me to become a better person and to reach my goals without never giving up. Voted up☺
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Hi SheGetsCreative,
Thank you for the feedback and for dropping by! I hope you enjoy checking out the songs that you haven't heard of :-).
Have a great day,
Nalini
Great list - some I've never heard of but definitely will check them out.
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Hi lilmissbookworm,
The fact that your mother fought a battle against cancer for 7 years says that your mother was more than a survivor, especially to battle for so long with something so difficult and painful.
I am sorry for your loss. I think you and your mother will come to mind when I hear this song now. You gave me a new perspective and a lot to think about and be thankful for. Thank you for taking the time and for sharing.
Sincerely,
Nalini
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Hi Mills P,
Thank you for your comment and song suggestion! I am taking a break from building this list for the present as I am not on HP as much right now but will be looking to the comments starting with yours and going forward when I come back to build the list more and make updates.
Have a great day and thanks again,
Nalini
I love "survivor" by Destinys child, as it is sentimental to me. I played this song to my mum when she was battling cancer and although it beat her in the end, she fought a great 7 year battle. This song depicts that struggle.
If you're still building this list, may I suggest Lean On Me by Terry Callier? I admire its message of undying concern.
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Hi schoolgirlforreal,
Thanks for the feedback and for bookmarking it. I am glad you liked it!
Have a great day,
Nalini
AWESOME hub! I'm bookmarking it! YEAH!
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Hi Hezekiah,
Thank you for the comment and feedback. It's true--we don't always take note of the lyrics. I've been guilty of doing this. But when we listen and listen closely, there is definitely more to be gathered.
Have a great day,
Nalini
Nice list, there are no doubt many songs like these around. The problem is, most people don't take note of the lyrics.
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