When those Monday morning blues start wearing you down, you know it’s time to shake those legs to some of the most uplifting songs of all time. Now, we all know that music taste is highly subjective and the list I’ve put together will in no way cover everyone’s favorites, but I’m confident that it will at the very least put a smile on your face.
Contrary to the article we published earlier about the 10 most popular songs of all time, this piece features well-known classics and some pretty epic celebratory tunes, but there are also a few less well-known gems that may catapult your brain into a state of pure joy. From rock-and-roll to pop, and from indie rock to dance music, every genre has its golden tracks that will inevitably lift your mood.
Bob Marley once said that one good thing about music is that “when it hits you, you feel no pain”. I believe this to be true, but more so, that melodies can heal you from whatever pain, sadness or anger you’re experiencing – at least temporarily. So, if you could use a smile today, check out my version of the most uplifting songs of all time (the order of the songs is arbitrary).
Warning: yelling out lyrics, hair tossing, and involuntary hip shaking and arm-whirling may occur (and is recommended).
20. Justice – D.A.N.C.E.
This funky dance tune was created by a French electronic duo in 2007 and has been lifting our spirits and filling the dance floors ever since.
There’s a whole lot more where that came from, with 19 more of the most uplifting songs of all time contained within the next pages. What are your ears waiting for?
19. Michael Jackson – Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
While MJ is the mastermind behind many mood-lifting melodies, this one is irresistible.
18. Jet – Are You Gonna Be My Girl?
One of those songs that just makes you jump around in your underwear.
17. Electric Light Orchestra – Mr. Blue Sky
The British rock group released this song in 1977, lightening the mood for all.
16. Kings of Convenience – I’d Rather Dance With You
While this indie-pop duo may not have a fan-base matching the Beatles, they know how to make you move.
15. Pharrell Williams Ft. Justin Timberlake – Brand New
While everyone was raving about “Happy”, I discovered this incredibly uplifting tune from the same album “Girl”. My advice: turn up the volume, make pancakes, and just smile.
14. The Beatles – A Hard Day’s Night
The Beatles never fail to deliver and this song just takes the edge off any day.
13. Janelle Monae – Tightrope
This little lady with her funky hair and androgynous look is one of the most vibrant new artists on the funk and hip-hop scene today. If you don’t believe me, just check out her dance moves.
12. Vampire Weekend – A-punk
Caution: this song will have you bobbing your head for the rest of the day.
11. Led Zeppelin – Trampled Under Foot
They can’t stop talking about love and we can’t stop rocking out to this song from one of the finest rock groups of all time.
10. James Brown – Sex Machine
While this song is probably more famous for helping couples procreate since 1971, I also think it’s one of the most uplifting songs of all time.
9. Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros – Home
Let’s face it – most songs with whistling in them are going to make us smile, as this one does.
8. Arcade Fire – Rebellion (lies)
There’s something extremely epic and inspiring about any song written by these six musicians, but this glorious melody takes the cake for me.
7. Katrina & the Waves – Walking on Sunshine
As cliche as this choice might seem, no one can deny that it’s the ultimate happy song.
6. Maxine Nightingale – Right Back Where We Started From
The beautiful Maxine sings about putting a smile back on our face and disco fans jump in joy.
5. The Darkness – I Believe In a Thing Called Love
While many may argue that lead singer Justin Hawkins’ high-pitched screeches are annoying, I recommend playing this song while theatrically booming into your hairbrush – fun time guaranteed.
4. Breakbot – Baby I’m Yours
Like Justice, this French DJ and musician started his career at Ed Banger Records. This was his first official single and instantly turned into a summer hit.
3. Joe Cocker – With A Little Help From My Friends
There are several well-known versions of this song, but Joe Cocker’s raspy, melodic vocal outbursts in his 1968 edition catapult me to the sky every single time.
2. Florence + the Machine – Dog Days Are Over
This song is enticing in so many ways, but it’s safe to say that the intense drum beat is what makes it a gloriously powerful tune. The perfect song for getting your motivation back on track.
1. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
I have to this day never met a human being that did not like this song. An anthem dedicated to life, love and hope, it’s all you need to get that smile back on your face.
