20 Songs to Cheer You Up - Musical Mum (2024)

There are days that we all feel down. Maybe we fought with a friend, didn’t do well on a test, or are just feeling generally gloomy. Luckily, music can give us a much-needed boost when we’re feeling down.

If you’re in need of some cheering up, put on your favorite tunes and let the good vibes wash over you. Here are 20 songs to cheer you up.

1. “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers

The first song on our list is one that, when you’re with your partner, problems and insecurities tend to vanish.

This feel-good song is all about having a good day because your love makes everything better. The lyrics, “Just one look at you / And I know it’s gonna be / A lovely day” proves that love helps ease the hardships of life.

2. “Pocketful of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield

It’s not uncommon for life to be tough and unbearable at times, which is why everyone needs a happy place to escape to. This song is about finding your pocket of sunshine during difficult times. It has an upbeat tempo that will surely bring a smile to your face.

3. “Shout” by The Isley Brothers

Get ready to dance and forget your worries with this rock-soul song that’s full of life and joyous singers.

This track has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame which is a testament to its timelessness. The tune is so catchy, you’ll be desperate to chant and dance along every time you hear it.

4. “Fireflies” by Owl City

It’s vital to maintain a sense of childish wonder if you want to be able to shift your attitude and improve your mood. This song is about being restless, yet being soothed by fireflies, makes us want to stay awake and be enraptured by their loveliness.

The song was inspired by the singer’s sleepless nights, and he has described himself as an insomniac. It’s safe to say that this tune will make you forget about your troubles and appreciate the simple things in life.

5. “Dance to the Music” by Sly & The Family Stone

Dance all your worries away with this funk classic that will have you grooving in no time. The horns, clapping, and intoxicating bassline make it impossible to stand still when this song comes on. It’s the perfect track to get your body moving and your spirits lifting.

6. “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles

This post-punk tune became an instant classic when it was released in 1986. The lyrics are about maintaining your balance on a ferryboat by walking like an Egyptian.

It may look silly, but it’s something you would want to do – and then you might fall in the water. It’s impossible to hear this song without smiling and tapping your feet along to the beat.

7. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams

This feel-good anthem is all about being happy and enjoying life, regardless of what’s going on around you. The lyrics “Because I’m happy / Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof” will inspire you to stay positive even when bad news comes your way.

8. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast

Funk and soul music often go hand-in-hand, and this tune is the perfect example of that. It’s impossible to listen to this track without feeling happy and wanting to dance.

The song is about having a toxic relationship; the upbeat tempo makes it something to shrug off and enjoy while it lasts.

9. “I Really Like You” by Carly Rae Jepsen

Having this huge infatuation for someone can be all-consuming, and this song is the perfect anthem for anyone who’s smitten.

It’s an upbeat track that will make you feel like confessing your feelings to the person. The lyrics are incredibly relatable, and you’ll be singing along in no time.

10. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin

Reggae songs often have a positive and uplifting message, and this tune is no different. It’s all about not worrying and being happy, regardless of what life throws your way.

The simple yet effective lyrics have helped this song become a worldwide hit and even earned a Grammy. You’d want to sit back and relax with this one.

11. “The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World

This song is about trying your best in everything, regardless of whether you’re good enough or not. It’s an anthem for the underdogs and a reminder to do what you want to do, despite what others say. It’s an energetic inspirational track that will get you pumped up and ready to take on anything.

12. “Good Time” by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen

It’s always a good time when you spend it with friends and people that you love. This song is the perfect summer anthem and will make you want to get up and dance.

The lyrics are about enjoying life and making the most of every moment. It’s a feel-good track that will put a smile on your face.

13. “Famous Last Words” by My Chemical Romance

This punk song is for those of you who are in deep pain, currently living in despair, and about to give up but are still fighting on.

The lyrics, “I am not afraid to keep on living” means that perseverance in overcoming tough times will eventually lead to better days. It’s an emotional yet hopeful track that will resonate with anyone who’s going through a tough time.

14. “The Animal Song” by Savage Garden

This song is full of compassion and understanding for people who are struggling, and it will definitely lift your mood.

It’s about feeling caged in and wanting to break free from the restraints that are holding you back. The lyrics, “‘Cause I want to live like animals / Careless and free like animals” talks about being free of the judgment and pain that humans often experience. It’s a refreshing and liberating track.

15. “The Remedy” by Jason Mraz

Worrying and stressing about the future can be incredibly overwhelming, and this song is the perfect pick-me-up. It’s all about living in the present, facing problems, and enjoying life as it comes.

The lyrics, “I won’t worry my life away” is a gentle reminder to not worry, because everything will eventually work out– just enjoy life and relive the experience.

16. “Up!” by Shania Twain

Being imperfect and making mistakes is a part of life, but that doesn’t mean that you should give up on yourself. This song is about continuing to move forward and just laughing at your mistakes.

Problems aren’t going to last forever, so just enjoy the good moments while they last. When you’re feeling down, put this song on and just let go.

17. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac

Breakups are never easy and this song is an ode to anyone who’s going through one. It’s a reminder that breakups are the most confusing times of a relationship but you are better off without that person.

The lyrics, “You can go your own way” is a direct way of saying you’re all better off without them. It’s an empowering track that will make you feel like you can take on anything.

18. “Today My Life Begins” by Bruno Mars

Another day, another opportunity to start fresh and make something of yourself. This song is about taking charge of your life and making the most of it.

The lyrics, “I know I can make it, today my life begins” is a great reminder that every day is a new beginning and that you have the power to make it whatever you want. If you’re feeling lost, this song will give you a boost of confidence and motivation.

19. “Dancing In The Moonlight” by Toploader

This song would definitely bring you to the tip of your toes and dance along with the rhythm. It’s about dancing in the moonlight and how it makes you feel nostalgic and happy with life.

The lyrics, “It’s such a fine and natural sight / Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight” is an invitation for you to let loose and just enjoy the moment. It’s a feel-good track that will make you want to get up and just dance the worries away.

20. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles

Last on this list is a power-pop track about speaking up and being brave even when you’re scared. It’s about taking risks, being yourself, and living life to the fullest.

The lyrics, “Say what you want to say / And let the words fall out” is a reminder that it’s okay to be vulnerable and that your voice deserves to be heard. This song will give you the confidence to speak up and face your inhibitions.

Conclusions

Problems come and go so it’s natural to feel down sometimes. But don’t forget that you’re not alone in this – everybody goes through tough times.

When you’re feeling low, listen to these songs to cheer you up and remind you that better days are ahead. So turn up the volume, and let these songs give you a much-needed boost.