30 Of the Most Inspirational Songs of All Time to Lift Your Spirits Up
Music has an unrivaled power.
It moves us to action, inspires us to do better, motivates us to push through challenges, and comforts us when things are dark.
There are a lot of amazing songs out there. And there are countless inspirational ones because they’re so personal to your life story. However, once you find that one song that touches you, it can evoke impactful emotions and actions.
I probably get most of my inspiration through music.– Ben Falcone
Keep in mind that a list of the most inspirational songs of all time has to be highly subjective. Only you can decide which are the most inspirational songs to you.
Having said that, time and attention were put into crafting the list below, so you’re bound to find a few that strike a chord with you (or remind you of a special time).
In no particular order, here 30 of the most inspirational songs of all time:
1. "Not Afraid" by Eminem
"Not Afraid" by Eminem is all about standing up for yourself, something that isn’t talked about enough in general. If you need a little confidence to face something– or someone– this is the song to listen to.
2. "Dream On" by Aerosmith
"Dream On" was written by Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler when the band was down on its luck. Needless to say, it worked out for them and we have this incredible ballad about going for our dreams as a result.
3. "Can’t Hold Us" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
"Can’t Hold Us" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis is one of my favorite songs to exercise to. All of the songs on this list are inspirational, but this one combines the inspirational message with a ridiculously energizing melody.
4. "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Originally sung by Judy Garland in her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, this cover of Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg’s "Over the Rainbow" became an instant classic when Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole’s version was discovered. The song is all about getting to brighter pastures and IZ’s version is especially fitting for the message.
5. "Lose Yourself" - Eminem
Another personal favorite, Eminem’s "Lose Yourself" will make you feel like jumping up and running out the door to make something happen. If you’re ever waning in motivation, listen to this.
6. "Don't Stop Believin'" - Journey
One of the single most inspirational songs of all time (top five?), "Don’t Stop Believin’" by Journey is all about persisting through the tough times and realizing greatness, whatever that might be to you.
7. "It's My Life" - Bon Jovi
If you’ve had something you needed to do for a while but have been putting it off, just listen to this song. It’s now or never. Enough said.
8. "Formation"- Beyoncé
Already known for putting out hit after hit--"Crazy in Love," "Single Ladies" or "Love on Top" anyone?--Beyoncé served the world a masterpiece with the song "Formation" from her album Lemonade.
Combining social commentary and a powerful, rhythmic call to action, "Formation" is guaranteed to make anyone feel like they can charge of their own lives, and change for the better.
9. "Imagine" - John Lennon
"Imagine" is a unique song compared to the rest on this list but it’s as relevant now as it’s ever been (maybe even more so). Lennon’s instant classic inspires a vision of a better world and how we can all share in that vision together– and make it a reality.
10. "All You Need Is Love" - The Beatles
Somehow, I feel like it would be a crime not to include a Beatles song on any “best songs” list. Well, we can check that off.
In all seriousness, "All You Need Is Love" reminds us all of the power that love has in our life and that it truly is not just the most important thing but all we need. If you're a fan of quotes about love or moving lyrics, then this song is a perfect match
11. "Beautiful" - Christina Aguilera
Beautiful holds a message that is both highly relevant and powerful, especially for anyone who’s gone through a difficult relationship or other experience that has led them to question themselves and their inner beauty.
12. "Man in the Mirror" - Michael Jackson
One of many Michael Jackson classics, this is a personal favorite. But it’s not on this list for that reason. "Man in the Mirror" is all about looking at yourself and realizing that you can– and should– make a change, not just to better yourself but to make the world a better place.
13. "Hero" - Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s "Hero" is about reminding you that you can be your own hero. It’s a message that has, and always will, stand the test of time.
14. "We Are The Champions" - Queen
I can still hear Queen’s "We Are The Champions" ringing in my head from all those basketball games I went to when I was a kid. Easily one of the single most inspirational songs of all time. Nothing much more needs to be said.
15. "Firework" - Katy Perry
In "Firework", Katy Perry reaches into our soul and speaks to us about what it’s like to be human. It’s an anthem about our shared challenges and what its like to feel as though you’re not worthy. Given the lyrics, it’s no surprise Perry’s "Firework" has made such an impact on so many.
16. "Livin' On A Prayer" - Bon Jovi
There are times in our life where everything seems to be going wrong and we’re hanging by a thread. "Livin’ On a Prayer" by Bon Jovi is one of the best songs ever written to listen to if you're struggling.
17. "Eye of the Tiger" - Survivor
Come on. COME. ON. You didn’t think we’d make a list like this and not include "Eye of the Tiger," did you? This is one of the most energizing, motivational songs known to humankind.
18. "Hall of Fame" - The Script
There are a few songs on this list that will make you feel like you’re a winner. "Hall of Fame" by The Script is one of those songs. The song will remind you of your worth and what you can accomplish.
19. "Stronger" (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson
"Stronger" by Kelly Clarkson is the quintessential song to put on when you’ve just been hit by a challenge and need to find the strength to pick yourself and keep on goin’.
20. "Skyscraper" - Demi Lovato
Skyscraper is a song with many fans, many of whom say the song saved them during a troubled time in their life. It’s not nearly as well-known as Lovato’s other hits, however, it has easily one of the most powerful set of lyrics ever written.
21. You Gotta Be – Des Ree
This empowering ‘90s classic speaks for itself. This confidence-boosting anthem will inspire you to set your goals and conquer your day, while embracing the challenge. Go get ‘em tiger!
22. Harder, Better, Faster – Daft Punk
If you’re looking to improve your work productivity, this is the ultimate jam. “Harder, Better, Faster” reminds us that no goals are ever achieved without hard work.
23. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
One of the most, if not THE most, uplifting songs of all time, “What A Wonderful World” reminds us to look for and appreciate the beauty in the little things. There is enough good in the world to keep us motivated and inspired to live it up, no matter how tough things can get.
24. Started From The Bottom – Drake
It’s hard to NOT be motivated to put in the work and achieve your goals when listening to this track by Drake. The rapper shares his road to success and reminds us that even if we’re only starting at the bottom, we have the potential to reach great heights.
25. Survivor – Destiny’s Child
Anyone remember Beyonce before Jay-Z? ‘Survivor’ by Destiny’s Child is definitely one of those songs that’ll inspire you to reflect on your personal strength and resilience, and remind you that you too have the power to turn a negative situation into a positive one.
26. Heroes – David Bowie
One of Bowie’s best love songs, this timeless classic is all about hope and optimism in the face of injustice. An anthem for the oppressed, Bowie’s performance of the song in 1987 in West Berlin was considered to have been a motivator behind the Berlin Wall’s eventual fall.
27. I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
One of the greatest girl power anthems in existence, this song is pretty straight forward. ‘I Will Survive” is all about self-empowerment, recognizing your worth, standing up for yourself and thriving in the aftermath of heartbreak and disappointment.
28. Stronger - Kanye West
Whether you’re looking for a bumping workout jam or just something to boost your mood, you can count on Kanye’s ‘Stronger’ to get you pumped. The message is simple and it’s worth repeating: ‘that that don't kill me
can only make me stronger’.
29. Heal the World - Michael Jackson
One of many inspirational songs by the late ‘King of Pop’, ‘Heal The World’ is all about bettering ourselves for the greater good. It’ll inspire you to look inward and find compassion for others. We’re all in this together.
30. Save the World – Swedish House Mafia
Feeling blah? This upbeat track by Swedish Mafia will remind you that ultimately, it’s up to you to pick yourself up, find your motivation and reclaim your power.
Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.