Okay, it's time to confront reality: Despite the increasing daylight, rising temperatures, and the promise of a somewhat typical summer, I prefer to have reliable methods for lifting my mood readily available.
In other words, I have a playlist of upbeat songs that I enjoy listening to repeatedly, regardless of the time or location. This includes occasions such as showering, restless nights, or even when reheating my leftover pizza.
I firmly believe that the most effective (and economical) remedy for a lackluster day is to crank up some uplifting songs. The melodies have a way of resonating deep within, energizing your typically depleted mood and inspiring you to bust a move.
Trust me, attempt to resist the urge to twirl around your living quarters, belting out the lyrics to Atomic Kitten's "The Tide Is High" while clutching a hairbrush as a makeshift microphone. It's an impossible feat!
In case you are already feeling great and wish to sustain the positive energy, these lively songs are CERTAIN to do the trick. This list features 15 songs that will instantly lift your mood.
1. "Paper Rings" by Taylor Swift
https://youtu.be/8zdg-pDF10g
Listening to a delightful T-Swift song can instantly lift your mood. The concept of desiring to wed someone with paper rings is simply adorable and bound to make you grin. (Although, it's best to ignore any rumors of a split with Joe Alwyn at the moment.)
2. Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder
https://youtu.be/6To0fvX_wFA
Released over half a century ago, this track remains a crowd-pleasing hit for a good reason - it's a complete mood-lifter! Interestingly, it marked Stevie Wonder's debut as a solo producer, underscoring his exceptional skills.
3. Three Little Birds” – Bob Marley & The Wailers
https://youtu.be/HNBCVM4KbUM
This timeless song is easily recognizable and boasts an infectious summertime energy that permeates its lyrics and melody. It's the perfect song to listen to when you need a lighthearted reminder to slow down and not take life too seriously. Don't forget to add this classic song to your favorite playlist and let Bob Marley's music ease your worries and make you happy.
As the lyrics go, "Riup this morning, smiled with the rising sun. Three little birds pitch by my doorstep singing sweet songs of melodies pure and true. Saying, 'This is my message to you-ou-ou'...singing, 'Don't worry about a thing...cause every little thing is gonna be alright!'"
4. “I Ain’t Worried” – OneRepublic
https://youtu.be/mNEUkkoUoIA
This uplifting song is a prime example of a song that can lift your mood and make you happy.
Start your day off on the right foot by playing this song that encourages us to incorporate more fun and carefree attitudes into our daily lives. Your future self will be grateful.
As the lyrics go, “No stressing, just obsessin’ with sealin’ the deal. I’ll take it in and let it go. But I ain’t worried ’bout it right now…Keeping dreams alive, 1999, heroes. I ain’t worried ’bout it right now. Swimmin’ in the floods, dancing on the clouds below. I ain’t worried ’bout it…”
5. Ten Feet Tall – Afrojack feat. Wrabbel
https://youtu.be/bltr_Dsk5EY
Require a confidence boost? Perhaps envisioning yourself as a towering ten feet tall could do the trick.
If you're struggling to do so, take a moment to listen to Afrojack's empowering track that emphasizes the importance of mindset.
As Henry Ford famously stated, "Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right."
Check the lyrics out:
"We're giants in a world of small men. My heart is beating so strongly it could burst. I've been trying hard not to show it. But you make me feel like I'm towering over buildings, cars, and boats. I swear I could touch the sky. Ohhh ohh ohhh I'm ten feet tall..."
6. "What I Like About You" by Lillix
https://youtu.be/QxTxFjuOj3M
Although it is a cover version, I would like to argue that it is a great rendition performed by an all-female group (which is awesome!), and the fact that Lindsay Lohan appears in the music video because the song is from the Freaky Friday soundtrack makes it even better. So, why not rock it?!
7. "Valerie" by Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse
https://youtu.be/bixuI_GV5I0
Although numerous artists have covered this song, the rendition by Amy Winehouse is nothing short of I-CON-IC. Its irresistibly catchy tune lingers in your mind throughout the day, but I'm not bothered by it at all.
8. "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake
https://youtu.be/ru0K8uYEZWw
The fact remains that the feeling cannot be suppressed. And that feeling, my dear companions, is pure bliss. Let's face it, the song was specifically created for the Trolls film, featuring cute, charming, and excessively joyful trolls. The rhythm was essentially formulated to evoke a happy response!
9. “Happy” – Pharell Williams
https://youtu.be/ZbZSe6N_BXs
Since I first heard this song featured in Despicable Me 2 in 2013, I have been completely captivated. And when the incredibly uplifting video was released eight months later, it became an instant success, inspiring people all over the world to create their own "Happy" videos.
The song's catchy melody and inspiring lyrics effortlessly tap into our inner happiness, encouraging us to always look for the bright side of life.
Its lyrics, "It might seem crazy what I'm about to say. Sunshine she's here, you can take away...I'm a hot air balloon, I could go to space. With the air, like I don't care baby by the way. Because I'm happy! Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof. Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth. Clap along if you know what happiness is to you..." are sure to make anyone feel joyful.
10. “Unwritten” – Natasha Beddingfield
https://youtu.be/b7k0a5hYnSI
The quote "Every passing minute is a chance to turn it all around" is a valuable piece of advice, despite its origin in a movie that isn't my personal favorite. We don't need to wait for a new year to start fresh; we can seize the opportunity to do so whenever we choose.
This uplifting song serves as a reminder that we hold the power to shape our own lives and turn our dreams into reality. We must take responsibility for our own words and actions, and live with open arms and an open mind. Today marks the beginning of our story, and the rest is yet to be written.
11. “Let’s Go” – Calvin Harris feat. Ne-Yo
https://youtu.be/LYZ6gXWZfZM
Are you facing a big day and in need of a song that will uplift and make you happy? Look no further than Calvin Harris & Ne-Yo's hit song. This track was a staple at Tony Robbins' Unleash The Power Within event and for good reason - its high-energy beats are sure to lift your mood and ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
If you haven't already added it to your work-day playlist, now is the time to do so. Take a look at the lyrics and let the message of moving forward and seizing the moment inspire you: "It's not about what you've done. It's about what you're doing...It's all about where you're going. No matter where you've been. Let's go! There ain't no better time. I'm talking here and now. Right now is where you shine. I'm talking here and now. Let's go!"
12. “The Best Day of My Life” – American Authors
https://youtu.be/0fTUj9mfnUk
When you listen to this melody, it's impossible not to adopt a positive perspective on life. It motivates you to embrace each day with enthusiasm and make the most out of it. To me, this song evokes memories of carefree summer days spent with loved ones by the water. It serves as a reminder that even though life can be challenging, it's still full of wonder and beauty.
The lyrics go, "The possibilities are endless, and epiphanies abound. I won't dwell on the past, Whoa-Oh. I won't give up, No-Oh. Let me savor this moment! Today is going to be the best day of my life.."
13. Glitter" by Tyler, the Creator
https://youtu.be/iNP8_xtq8YU
Tyler, the Creator, known for his provocative and edgy style, showcases his sincere side in this beautiful song. He confesses that whenever his love interest is near, he feels like glitter, which is heartwarming. The rapper's excellent taste in chords and orchestrations adds to the charm of "Glitter," making it a delightful experience.
14. "Classic" by MKTO
https://youtu.be/4Ba_qTPA4Ds
This upbeat tune is perfect for those who enjoy a little sunshine and catchy pop music. It's sure to get you up and moving in no time!
15. "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers
https://youtu.be/tbNlMtqrYS0
I am certain that if you manage to resist tapping your foot during the intro of this song, you might as well be awarded a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, as it seems to be an unattainable feat.
Conclusion
If life gives you lemons, crank up the music. (Isn't that how the saying goes?) Jokes aside, research has proven that listening to music can elevate your spirits and enhance your overall health. Therefore, during tough times, having a playlist of cheerful songs can lift your mood, make you happy, and things a tad less difficult.