FlourishAnyway believes there is a playlist for just about any situation and is on a mission to unite and entertain the world through song.

Let Them Know They're Not Alone

We all stumble in this life, but it's the getting up that matters most. However, that's not always easy to do by yourself, especially when you feel weakened by obstacles that life has thrown your way. That's when we seek support and strength from friends and loved ones.

Perhaps there's someone important in your life experiencing hard times:

• unemployment or financial problems
• divorce
• the death of someone close to them
• a medical illness
• legal problems or
• other life struggle.

If this sounds familiar, tell them "I'm here for you" using a customized playlist of songs that lets them know you're standing with them. We have a long list of pop, rock, and country songs that can help you uplift and encourage them, letting them know they're not alone. That can make all the difference.

Reader Poll

1. "I Won't Let Go" by Rascal Flatts

The narrator in this 2010 country song promises to help a friend facing the struggle of their life. Although the challenge the friend encounters makes them feel lost and threatens to break their will, the narrator makes the following reassuring pledge:

I will stand by you
I will help you through
When you've done all you can do
If you can't cope
I will dry your eyes
I will fight your fight
I will hold you tight
And I won't let go.

2. "Count on Me" by Bruno Mars

An ancient Greek writer said that "One loyal friend is worth ten thousand relatives." This upbeat 2010 song reaffirms the supportive nature of friendship. Friends help you when you're lost, in need, and when you're sad and lonely.

3. "Stand By You" by Rachel Platten

This energetic 2015 song is both uplifting and inspiring. The narrator offers to walk the path of pain with her loved one, even if it takes them through hell.

She offers to lighten her loved one's burden any way she can. Letting them know they're not alone in their fight, she explains she will share her own strength. (Yep, she's that strong!)

Whatever struggle your loved one is facing, this is a perfect support anthem.

4. "One Call Away" by Charlie Puth

In this 2016 song, help is thankfully just a call away. The narrator promises his friend that whenever hope and strength are running low, just reach out and call him. He'll be there to save the day, like Superman, only better.

5. "I'll Stand by You" by Carrie Underwood

Having experienced hardship herself, the narrator in this 2007 country song offers to be the confidante, protector, and guidepost to see her friend through tough times. She offers the gift of unconditional acceptance. That's a mighty difficult thing to find these days.

6. "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers

Put aside foolish pride when you are undergoing the struggle of your life. Reach out to others you trust and share your story. They can likely empathize and can lighten your load because perhaps they have walked in your footsteps.

So says this classic 1972 hit that emphasizes how interconnected we all are. Don't let your challenge isolate you. Really, you're not as alone as you might believe.

7. "Song for a Friend" by Jason Mraz

Our friends center us in good times and in bad, and they provide us with support and comfort when we most need it. According to this 2005 song, those important bonds can be as tight as family:

I'll be your friend
Your other brother
Another love to come and comfort you
And I'll keep reminding
If it's the only thing I ever do
I will always love
I will always love you.

8. "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M.

This 1992 song provides reassurance that on occasion everyone cries, feels alone, and considers letting go. Everybody hurts, and in those times it's important to seek solace from those who can support you. Hang on and know that you're not alone in your fight.

9. "Count on Me" by Whitney Houston & CeCe Winans

In thick and thin, the narrator in this 1996 song can be relied upon by her friend to empathize and help her friend carry on. Love keeps the bonds of their friendship strong.

In real life, Whitney Houston and CeCe Winans were friends over several decades until Houston's untimely death in 2012. She supported Houston throughout the singer's struggle with drug abuse and other personal issues.

10. "Let Me Be There" by Olivia Newton-John

This catchy, uplifting song from 1973 features a protagonist who promises to always be there in her loved one's life. She assures them that she'll catch them when they fall, hold their hand, and change whatever's wrong and make it right. Now that's super supportive! Who could ask for more?

11. "Anytime You Need a Friend" by Mariah Carey

When you're troubled and lonely, it's easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. However, the narrator in this 1993 song understands the experience and reminds her friend to stay strong and reach out to her for support.

12. "Hold On" by Michael Bublé

Two people who care about one another are stronger together than alone. That is the message behind this 2009 ballad in which a man promises his partner that if they just hold on to one another they can survive any challenge. He assures her that he will never let her go.

13. "I'm Gonna Love You Through It" by Martina McBride

At just 38 years old, the woman in this 2011 song, a mother of three children, received a diagnosis of breast cancer. Faced with surgery and resulting changes in her appearance, she struggled with both her own mortality and her changing self-identity.

Thankfully, her husband was a rock-solid source of support. When she expressed fear, he reassured her:

When you’re weak, I’ll be strong
When you let go, I’ll hold on.
When you need to cry, I swear that I’ll be there to dry your eyes
When you feel lost and scared to death,
Like you can’t take one more step
Just take my hand, together we can do it
I’m gonna love you through it.

14. "Never Gonna Be Alone" by Nickelback

This 2008 song is a promise from one friend to another that he'll be there when the friend is hurting and needs support. The protagonist is trying to make up for lost time and assures his friend that they will never be alone. He is holding on to his friend with both hands and won't be missing one more day.

15. "You Are Loved" by Stars Go Dim

Behind strained smiles, people often hide great pain. They may fear sharing their true emotions, believing they are the only ones.

This 2015 song is a reminder to just look up for true love and acceptance. Although the song is considered Christian pop rock, it does not reference any specific religion.

16. "I'll Be Your Shelter" by Taylor Dayne

If this upbeat 1990 hit sounds like something Tina Turner would sing, well that's because it was originally intended to be her song! She passed on it, however. That's okay, however, because Taylor Dayne does such a powerful job with the vocals.

In this song, the protagonist promises a loved one that when their world is stormy and threatening, she will provide them with the strength and shelter to survive. She vows to cover them with a blanket of "love so deep and warm and true." It's a perfect pick-me-up song to show support to someone you love.

17. "At Your Side" by The Corrs

Sometimes when a friend or loved one is facing difficulty, they just need someone to be with them. No magic words. They just need a caring soul by their side to reassure them that they'll get through this. The narrator in this 1999 song promises to provide that comforting presence and alleviate the worry and confusion.

18. "Find Out Who Your Friends Are" by Tracy Lawrence

This country song from 2006 declares a truth learned the hard way: When it comes to friendship, there are some situations where "the rubber meets the road." In times of trouble you often find out that you have friends you really didn't know you had before, and on the flip side, there are some folks you thought you could count on who run the other way. I've found that myself in my struggle with MS.

19. "Here for You" by Gorgon City (featuring Laura Welsh)

It's a shame that most Americans are not familiar with this electro-pop British song from 2014. The song's narrator expresses reassurance that she'll be there for her friend, never too far away.

Across time, space, and changes that they'll go through, the narrator will be a steady source of support. Together, they'll make it.

20. "Here for You" by Kygo (featuring Ella Henderson)

Released in 2015, this is a danceable, upbeat song by Norwegian DJ and record producer Kygo. In it, one friend promises another that when they've when reached their lowest point and have nothing left, the narrator will be here to lift their friend up.

Even More Songs About Supporting Someone and Being There

Questions & Answers

Question: My friend and I have been going through some tough times. He has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and I think he is pushing me away. I want to let him know that I'm here until the end, will be his strength when he has none, and all that kinda stuff. Do you have any ideas for a great song to tell him how I feel?

Answer: You have a good heart to support him in this way. I have an aunt going through cancer right now. She starts radiation and seven weeks of chemo on Monday. It's important to express your love and support, offer kindness and hope (sometimes that's all a person has!), plus practical help, if and when you can.

My favorite song for the purposes you describe is, "You've Got a Friend" (1971) by James Taylor. It's simple and poignant, utterly timeless, and both his voice and the instrumentals are soothing.

You might also consider a playlist rather than a single song, or send him a song every few days with a personal, encouraging message reminding him how much you care. You can find some touching songs about friendship on the Spinditty playlist, "BFF Playlist: Popular Songs About Best Friends and Friendship" http://hub.me/ajMOT. Additionally, you can find some encouraging songs about persevering in the face of adversity on the Spinditty playlist, "Songs About Survival and Perseverance in the Face of Challenge" http://hub.me/aiQFi.

I wish you and your friend all the best as you power to overcome this difficult health challenge. Thank you for bringing him light, love, and hope. Don't let him push you away. I hope this was helpful.

Question: I feel like I’ve grown apart from my friend as I’ve been spending more time with my lover, and want to her to know I’m still here for her. How can I show her that she still means the world to me?

Answer: First, make time for her regularly such as a weekly coffee date. Second, consider gathering photos of you and your friend throughout your relationship and making a little video set to music. It would mean the world to her.

Question: My mom is in jail and going through a hard time. I want her to know I still love her and everything is going to be okay. Can you recommend a song for me?

Answer: I'm sorry about your mother. My favorite is, "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers (1972) because it emphasizes we all have troubles, there's a tomorrow, and you may need her in the future. Take care of yourself emotionally first, being careful not to enable. She's an adult and although you can support her, know where the line is. I can tell you have a good heart.

© 2016 FlourishAnyway

Comments

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on May 02, 2020:

Peggy - You are absolutely right. Sometimes people (or animals) rely substantially on our small gestures. For example, I feed ferals cats and birds and pass along extras from meals and desserts to older relatives. During this difficult time, we need to continue these efforts or redouble the efforts to support one another.

Peggy Woods from Houston, Texas on May 01, 2020:

I know you wrote this three years ago, but given the current circumstances and the numbers of people affected by this global pandemic, supporting people takes on even more significance today since there are so many people who need it right now. We all need love and support in our daily lives. We should all think of doing even more right now for others we may not personally know but rely upon for our daily needs. Take care! Many of these songs are uplifting.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on April 04, 2020:

Emily - Thank you for the song suggestion which I added. Please rethink your decision to drop out of school. It will prove to be a huge mistake.

Emily on April 02, 2020:

I have another song to add to this list! It's called Hold On by Extreme Music. Through this pandemic, Im not ever gonna go back to school and since Im going to high school next year, some friends I will never see again.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on December 12, 2019:

Lexi, You're a good daughter, and I'm really sorry about your mother. If one of the songs on the above list doesn't suit you, you might try a song on the playlist of songs about survival and perseverance in the face of challenge: https://hubpages.com/playlists/Survivors-Song-List... For example: Corey Hart's "Never Surrender," Barry Manilow's "I Made It Through the Rain," Andy Grammer's "Keep Your Head Up," or any of the 100+ others. I wish you both all the best, sweet girl.

Lexi on December 12, 2019:

My mom is in jail and is going through a hard time. I just want her to know that I love her, i'm here for her and she is almost out. Can you recommend a song for me?

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on April 05, 2019:

Noelle - I'm glad it helped. Thanks for letting me know it was useful to you.

Noelle on April 05, 2019:

Thank you i needed this for a class project and it helped me dearly so thx

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on June 18, 2018:

Millie - Thank you for your comment.

Millie fox on June 17, 2018:

I will be here for you always!

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on November 23, 2017:

Jhenninger - I've added that as #79. Thanks for the suggestion and have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Jhenninger on November 22, 2017:

He aint heavy, hes my brother -the Hollies

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on October 22, 2017:

Victoria - Thanks for the suggestion.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on October 22, 2017:

becca - No, unfortunately not. Thanks for stopping by. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Victoria on October 22, 2017:

Alone by Alan Walker I think could be added to this list... maybe...

becca on October 22, 2017:

is there a playlist with all these songs somewhere? maybe youtube or spotify? thank you!

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on October 14, 2017:

Tony Tahiti, Thank you for the suggestion. I've added it at #77. Have a great weekend.

Tony Tahiti on October 14, 2017:

United We Stand, Brotherhood of Man. Other than Bridge Over Troubled Water and You've Got a Friend, it may be the best.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 18, 2017:

Pallav - That's a great addition. It's now #76. Thank you for the suggestion.

Pallav Chowdhury on September 18, 2017:

This list is missing "You are not alone" by Michael Jackson

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on June 28, 2017:

Hi, Heidi - Thanks so much for stopping by and for suggesting that song which I'm adding at #69. I appreciate you!

Heidi Thorne from Chicago Area on June 28, 2017:

How did I miss this playlist post? Too much going on I guess. My ultimate fave "be there" ballad is Bon Jovi, "I'll Be There For You." (And it's just a fave tune anyway.)

Thanks for always being there for us with your fun and entertaining playlists!

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 18, 2016:

Devika - Glad you stopped by once again. Thank you.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 18, 2016:

Frank - Thank you for your kindness. Glad it was a positive influence.

Frank Atanacio on September 18, 2016:

- Flourish this is a pick-me-up playlist to help me wake up with a smile and feel great. Makes me remember: being here for someone and someone being here for me.. love your hubs

DDE on September 18, 2016:

You come up with such great songs. Always with a valuable meaning.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 17, 2016:

scott - Thank you for the good suggestion! The song is very comforting. I'd like to save it for an upcoming playlist I have in the queue.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 17, 2016:

Faith Reaper - Thank you, kind lady, for your sweet words of encouragement on this song list. I hope it helps those who need it. Have a lovely weekend.

Faith Reaper from southern USA on September 17, 2016:

What a beautiful list of songs of support and compassion when someone is hurting. All of these are truly powerful and comforting. Music is healing to me, as is a kind word from a friend who truly cares.

scott on September 16, 2016:

George Harrison's song "All Things Must Pass" is a nice song for someone mourning the death of a loved one.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 12, 2016:

vespawoolf - Glad you found this interesting and useful. Thank you for sharing. Have a great week.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on September 12, 2016:

I appreciate all the research you put into these articles! I'm familiar with some of these songs but, of course, not all of them. I plan to listen to a few that are new to me and share with a couple of friends that are going through tough times. Thank you! This is very useful.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 11, 2016:

Martie - Thank you for reading and for your encouragement. I like R.E.M.'s song, too! Have a great week ahead.

Martie Coetser from South Africa on September 10, 2016:

Fabulous list of songs to be sent to those we would like to support while they are suffering a setback "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M. is most certainly my favorite. Thank you, FlourishAnyway!

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 08, 2016:

Linda - Gosh, not one? Thank you for reading consistently and for your kind words.

Linda Crampton from British Columbia, Canada on September 08, 2016:

I don't know the songs, but I like the lyrics and your descriptions. Creating a playlist for someone who needs comfort is a very thoughtful act.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 08, 2016:

MsDora - We all support you. I've been thinking of you and the loss of your dear mother, sweet lady. I hope that you have loved ones nearby who can help you get through your loss.

Dora Weithers from The Caribbean on September 07, 2016:

Flourish, I need these sentiments this very night. I'm going to spend some time listening to the videos you post. Bless you!

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 07, 2016:

Shyron - Thank you so much for your kind works of support and encouragement. If you don't mind, I'd like to place those songs on some other song lists in the queue. I appreciate you!

Shyron E Shenko from Texas on September 07, 2016:

I love this so very much, all the video are amazing, but at least two of my favs are missing.

1. I’ll be there before the next tear drop falls – Conway Twitty 1975

2. I'm not Lisa - Jessi Colter released 1995 ( I'm not Lisa, my name is Julie / Lisa left you years ago / My eyes are not blue / But mine won't leave you…)

You raise me up – Josh Groban October 2009/Celtic Women November 2009

*

Blessings and Hugs dear friend

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 07, 2016:

Linda - Many thanks. I really enjoyed this one. Have a great week ahead.

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 07, 2016:

Bill - I appreciate that you tried! They're not always easy to come up with, but hopefully they'll prove useful for people looking for songs for specific purposes. Have a great week!

Linda Lum from Washington State, USA on September 07, 2016:

What a beautiful hub. I'm saving this one for those rainy days that visit once in a while. Thank you.

Bill Holland from Olympia, WA on September 07, 2016:

Again I went blank when I saw the title. Evidently my imagination and/or memory have taken vacations of late. Once I read your list I went "oh, duh," but of course, then it was too late. LOL

FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 07, 2016:

teaches12345 - Thank you for stopping by and for your kind endorsement. Hopefully, it will uplift and encourage someone who needs it.

Dianna Mendez on September 06, 2016:

This is such a healing article. I loved Houston and Winans singing together on the video and it has a wonderful message. This is a much needed topic for so many hurting people out there.