51 Songs About Overcoming Obstacles, Adversity, Hard Times, Challenges, and Not Giving Up

Nalini has an ear for curating good music. Chances are she's made (or will eventually make) a list that fits your musical needs.

Inspire Yourself With Songs About Strength and Resilience

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!

Listen With an Open Mind

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. "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

#2. "It's Not Over Yet"—For King and Country

Album: Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong.

Read More From Spinditty

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Revisiting Anthrax's "Sound of White Noise"

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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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.

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#34. "I'm Still Standing"—Elton John

Album: Too Low for Zero

Released: 1983

Genre: Pop

This song is about:

• Coming out as survivor through difficult hardship
• Picking up the pieces of one life and continuing forward

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#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

#50. "Do Better"—Say Anything

Album: Say Anything

Released: 2009

Genre: Punk

This song is about:

• Doing better
• Going beyond mediocrity

Listen: 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

Great Albums by These Artists

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 31 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.

Questions & Answers

Question: Why isn't "Hard Times" by Paramore on here?

Answer: 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.

Question: Why don't these songs follow the epic hero cycle?

Answer: 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!

Question: Did you know that "I'm Still Standing" is by Elton John and not written for the movie "Sing?"

Answer: I didn't know previously but I've made the update; thanks!

© 2012 Nalini Marquez

Comments

Nalini Marquez (author) on June 03, 2018:

Hi 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

AmandaAmm on June 03, 2018:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on May 15, 2018:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on June 24, 2017:

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

Majjii on June 16, 2017:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on December 14, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on December 14, 2016:

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

Uatu Zwatcher from blue area, moon on October 24, 2016:

when i was a teen my "fight song" was "We're Not Gonna Take it" by twisted sister

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 24, 2016:

Hi whatwhat9, thank you for your opinion. Have a nice day!

Nalini Marquez

whatwhat9 on October 21, 2016:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 07, 2016:

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

ProfessorTaudio on April 07, 2016:

I love these songs! There are many inspiring tracks on here Super hub! Voted up, Great Job!

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 06, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 06, 2016:

Hi Adolfodylan, thank you for your comment and for checking out the hub. Have a great day! Nalini

greeneyedblondie on April 06, 2016:

This list just keeps on getting bigger! I love it!

Adolfo from New York on April 06, 2016:

hai

I Can See video so nice

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 03, 2016:

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

GJones from Manila, Philippines on April 02, 2016:

Mariah Carey's "Hero." Listening to that songs makes me feel that things are not bad as them seem.

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 31, 2016:

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!

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 31, 2016:

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!

Bryan Mathew from Hawaii on March 31, 2016:

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.

Glenn Anderson from Airlie Beach on March 31, 2016:

Thank you for the list Nalini, you have inspired me to create a playlist for those days that just need a little more motivation :)

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 18, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 18, 2016:

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

Ritesh Nishar on March 17, 2016:

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.

Mike Leal from London on March 17, 2016:

Wow! Your list is amazing. Thanks for sharing us your Hub. I actually like all the songs in your list. Cheers!

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 17, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 17, 2016:

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

Mohiuddin Shawon Mudds from Malaysia on March 17, 2016:

Thank you nailini for give us nice songs list ......when i work , i like to listen this type songs :) :) thanks again

EthanNelsen on March 16, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 12, 2016:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 12, 2016:

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

Creeper from Aw Man on March 10, 2016:

1, 21 guns, put down your arms. DOES ANYONE REMEMBER TWENTY ONE GUNS, ANYONE.

Alex from Stoke-On-Trent on March 08, 2016:

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! :)

Nalini Marquez (author) on March 05, 2016:

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

Jordi Bassaganas on March 05, 2016:

Music is so powerful, it goes directly to both your heart and brain.

Nalini Marquez (author) on February 26, 2016:

Hi Essay buy,

Thank you for the comment and for checking out the hub.

Have a great day!

Nalini

Nalini Marquez (author) on February 26, 2016:

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

Essay buy on February 25, 2016:

interesting

Christy Maria on February 22, 2016:

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!

Nalini Marquez (author) on February 11, 2016:

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

JohnnyBeis on February 10, 2016:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on February 07, 2016:

Hi trusouldj, thank you for your comment and for the song suggestion! I will check it out :-). Have a wonderful day!

Nalini

LaZeric Freeman from Hammond on January 31, 2016:

Splendid job. Try also, "Richest Man on Earth" by Paul Overstreet

Nalini Marquez (author) on January 27, 2016:

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

Bob Smith from Plymouth, MI on January 27, 2016:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on January 20, 2016:

Hi Lukiz Tsjzi, you're welcome! I am glad you liked it :-).

Lukiz Tsjzi on January 16, 2016:

Thank you for this post

Kristen Howe from Northeast Ohio on December 31, 2015:

You're welcome!

Nalini Marquez (author) on December 30, 2015:

Thank you Kristen! :-)

Kristen Howe from Northeast Ohio on December 23, 2015:

My pleasure Nalini. You too

Nalini Marquez (author) on December 22, 2015:

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. :-)

Kristen Howe from Northeast Ohio on December 16, 2015:

Great list, Nalini. It's so empowering and uplifting to hear a song from your song selection.

Nalini Marquez (author) on November 11, 2015:

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

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

I agree with Christina Aguilera on 'Fighter'. You must fight adversity with all you got. Thumbs up.

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

Andy Grammer -Keep Your Head Up. Can one really keep his head up, that way always?

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

"Move Along" by the All American Rejects is quite creative: good stuff guys.

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

Demi Lovato" Skyscraper is interesting. I like it. Thumbs up.

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

The Script's "Hall of Fame". I like the black guy with young Mandela kind of hair style: nice one and nice story.

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

Michael Franti's "Hey World (Don't Give Up)" is really encouraging. I like it.

Felix Chika-Sunday from Nigeria on November 10, 2015:

I like this movie title: Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor. it is nice and interesting.

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 29, 2015:

Hi sammy, I'm glad you love the list and you are most welcome! Happy listening. :-)

sammy ochieng on October 28, 2015:

I love this collection of inspirational songs. Thanks Nalini

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 16, 2015:

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. :-)

Robert Levine from Brookline, Massachusetts on October 14, 2015:

Hi Nalini, it is a sad movie, taking place as it does during WWII, but it has a happy ending.

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 14, 2015:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 14, 2015:

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. :-)

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 14, 2015:

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.

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 14, 2015:

Hi Learn Things Web, I am glad you like the list and thank you for the song suggestions! I will check those out :-).

bluebird on October 13, 2015:

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!

Patricia Scott from North Central Florida on October 13, 2015:

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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Robert Levine from Brookline, Massachusetts on October 13, 2015:

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."

LT Wright from California on October 13, 2015:

Great list. Everybody Hurts by REM and Animal by Kesha are two other great inspirational songs.

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 12, 2015:

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. :-)

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 12, 2015:

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. :-)

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 12, 2015:

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.

Stelios on October 12, 2015:

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!

minato from The Far East on October 12, 2015:

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.

Maree Michael Martin from Northwest Washington on an Island on October 12, 2015:

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....

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 11, 2015:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on October 11, 2015:

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

suraj punjabi from jakarta on October 10, 2015:

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!

Linda Robinson from Cicero, New York on October 02, 2015:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on September 19, 2015:

Hi Sam Tumblin,

Thank you! Happy listening. :-)

Nalini

Sam Tumblin from Eunice, La. on September 16, 2015:

Well detailed I can see why it's hard to maintain this post. Thanks!

Nalini Marquez (author) on September 14, 2015:

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

healingheart80 on September 14, 2015:

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 :-)

Nalini Marquez (author) on August 13, 2015:

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

Jennifer Pena from California on July 20, 2015:

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☺

Nalini Marquez (author) on July 06, 2015:

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

Angela F from Seattle, WA on July 06, 2015:

Great list - some I've never heard of but definitely will check them out.

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 24, 2015:

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

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 24, 2015:

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

lilmissbookworm on April 24, 2015:

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.

Pat Mills from East Chicago, Indiana on April 23, 2015:

If you're still building this list, may I suggest Lean On Me by Terry Callier? I admire its message of undying concern.

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 20, 2015:

Hi schoolgirlforreal,

Thanks for the feedback and for bookmarking it. I am glad you liked it!

Have a great day,

Nalini

schoolgirlforreal on April 19, 2015:

AWESOME hub! I'm bookmarking it! YEAH!

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 16, 2015:

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

Hezekiah from Japan on April 15, 2015:

Nice list, there are no doubt many songs like these around. The problem is, most people don't take note of the lyrics.

Nalini Marquez (author) on April 07, 2015:

Hi Luke,

Thank you for your comment and for letting me know about that song! I had never heard it until now and I've been making use of the replay button.:-) It's such a good song in terms of message, sound, strength, and the right touch of poetic aspects.

Added!

I hope it is able to help others as it has helped you. Thank you for taking the time to share it.

Have a wonderful day,

Nalini