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10 Uplifting Songs to Boost Your Mood

by | May 25, 2023 | Blog, Playlists, Resources | 0 comments

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I’ve always found that music has the power to uplift my mood, whatever emotions I may be facing that day. Over the years, certain songs have meant a lot to me in moving my mindset to a healthier place and helping me see the light at the end of the tunnel. This diverse selection of songs had messages that reminded me that everything would be okay (whilst being great to sing along to) and I hope they can do the same for you.

 

10 Songs to Boost Your Mood

#10. “Skyscraper” – Demi Lovato

Demi’s song “Skyscraper” is a major throwback, released in 2011, and has stood the test of time in still being a great song. The song states that whatever life throws at a person, they can stand on their feet and rise like a “Skyscraper”. Demi Lovato has been an inspiration of mine through the years, having overcome her own mental health challenges and created art with the intention of helping others going through similar things.

Lyrics we love:

Go on and try to tear me down

I will be rising from the ground

Like a skyscraper

#9. “Scars To Your Beautiful” – Alessia Cara

“Scars To Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara is such an inspirational song that spoke to me as a teenager, helping me get through those difficult teenage years. It covers so many relevant messages of the time, especially surrounding mental health. It specifically covers topics like body image and self-belief, even mentioning society’s warped perception of what is ‘beautiful’. 

Alessia Cara says “You don’t have to change a thing, the world can change its heart” which is so powerful to those who are regularly told the opposite. To anyone who struggles with body image or related issues, this is a great song to listen to for empowerment and body positivity.

Lyrics we love:

But there’s a hope that’s waiting for you in the dark

You should know you’re beautiful just the way you are

And you don’t have to change a thing

The world could change its heart

No scars to your beautiful

We’re stars and we’re beautiful

#8. “Hesitate” – Jonas Brothers

“Hesitate” is a very personal song by The Jonas Brothers – and it’s beautiful and moving to say the least. You can tell it’s been written from a place of love, as it discusses being there for someone who is struggling with their mental health. It talks about being a listening ear to whatever needs to be vented, and that they are there for each other to lean on whenever things get tough. 

This song resonates with my journey with mental health, having had an amazing network of people to listen to, advise and support me through rocky times. It’s a lovely reminder that we all deserve to feel heard – no matter what emotion/difficulty you may be facing. 

Lyrics we love:

Time, time only heals if we work through it now

I promise we’ll figure this out

#7. “Sing” – Gary Barlow & The Commonwealth Band

A song sung by singers across the globe, “Sing” by Gary Barlow and The Commonwealth Band is a heart-warming tune that gets your feet tapping and you can’t help but sing along! Gary Barlow sings of uniting those from many different backgrounds, showing the power of music/singing in bringing people together in love, acceptance and positivity.

Lyrics we love:

Sing it louder, sing it clearer

Knowing everyone will hear you

Sing

Sing it stronger, sing together

Make this moment last forever

#6. “Heroes” – Mans Zelmerlow

As the winner of Eurovision 2015 with this song, Mans Zelmerlow enchants his listeners with the message that they are the heroes of their time. “Heroes” is empowering, with its catchy beat and uplifting melody. The live performance of this song at Eurovision is captivating with its use of visual effects to add to the storytelling – I totally recommend watching this! 

Lyrics we love:

Now go sing it like a hummingbird

The greatest anthem ever heard

Now sing together

We are the heroes of our time

Heroes

#5. “Angel By The Wings” – Sia

Only discovered recently, Sia’s song “Angel By The Wings” is both magical and stunning to listen to. The music is captivating alongside her incredible voice, but the message itself is the main takeaway – “You can do anything”. 

My interpretation of the song is the idea of living every day with meaning and purpose. Not taking anything for granted and just going for whatever you want in life. It reminds me of how far I’ve come and is a reminder of how amazing life will be going forward. Hopefully, it can do the same for you!

Lyrics we love:

Oh so, your wounds they show

I know you have never felt so alone

But hold on, head up, be strong

#4. “This Is Me” – The Greatest Showman

This catchy bop is one for any occasion and is the definition of an empowering song. “This is Me” is all about not just being yourself, but being proud of who you are! A perfect pick-me-up at the end of a long and challenging day. 

Lyrics we love:

When the sharpest words wanna cut me down

I’m gonna send a flood, gonna drown ’em out

I am brave, I am bruised

I am who I’m meant to be, this is me

#3. “Firework” – Katy Perry

This nostalgic song from the 00s is a beautiful throwback that reminds the listener how amazing they are in their own unique way, very much like the songs by Lily-Jo! “Firework” promotes total individuality and inspires self-confidence. Not only that, but it’s catchy and fun to sing along to!

Lyrics we love:

Baby, you’re a firework

Come on, let your colors burst

Make ’em go, “Oh, oh, oh”

You’re gonna leave ’em all in awe, awe, awe

#2. “You Can’t Stop The Girl” – Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha’s song “You Can’t Stop The Girl” is really motivational, reminding the listener that they can do anything they set their mind to and that no one can stop them. This particularly resonates with my years of studying, especially at university, with the overwhelming amount of work at times. I’d listen to this song, it would empower me to power through the work and I’d end up feeling really good. It’s definitely a good song to spur you on! 

Lyrics we love:

You can’t stop the girl from going

You can’t stop the world from knowing

The truth will set you free, oh

#1. “Keeping Your Head Up” – Birdy

“Keeping Your Head Up” by Birdy always helped me in times I needed to hear things would get better. Its message about keeping your head up and staying strong is such a powerful pick-me-up. I’ve listed this song as #1 because it works for any situation. It’s so positive and leaves you feeling like ‘you’ve got this!’.

Lyrics we love:

Everyone keeps a darker place

To lose control,

You’re not alone

And when you come looking for embrace

I know your soul,

I’ll be your home

That’s a Wrap! What We’ve Learned

  1. It’s normal to experience low mood from time to time.
  2. Low mood is not permanent, it is possible to overcome it. 
  3. Nurture your support networks, reach out for help when you need it, and offer a listening ear to others who are struggling. 
  4. Take time to reflect on how far you have come – you’ll be surprised at the progress you’ve made! 
  5. Permission to be yourself is one of the best gifts that you can give yourself!  

Check Out the Playlist!

If you would like to save this playlist and listen later, you can find it on YouTube by following the link below: 

Other LJP Playlists You Might Like

If you enjoyed this playlist, check out some of our other mental health playlists!

Further Resources on Low Mood

If you found this article helpful, check out these other resources on overcoming low mood provided by The Lily-Jo Project.

About the Author: Mary Shanker

Mary is an Actor-Musician from Manchester with a background in drama and the music industry. Alongside her many projects, Mary also supports The Lily-Jo Project as a workshop presenter delivering mental health workshops to schools throughout the UK. Mary is passionate about writing/creating/performing theatre and music that sends meaningful messages to audiences. 

To learn more about Mary, check out her website (www.maryshanker.co.uk) or give her music page a follow on Facebook. 

To learn more about The Lily-Jo Project’s live workshops for schools, check out our dedicated schools’ page.

 

 

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