Every now and then, we all need a reminder to push past our problems and find our own inner strength. Luckily, there are quite a few songs that are particularly effective at doing just that.
Seeing yourself and your struggles in the songs that you listen to is a fundamental part of being a music fan. Whether it’s personal struggles with identity, finding yourself falling on hard times or even just a case of the Monday blues, people who are feeling down have long turned to the stylings of lyrical auteurs to help enhance their own self-confidence.
Different circumstances call for different kinds of music to lift you up — if you’re feeling like your energy has been drained down to its last reserves, a rock song from the likes of Harry Styles or The Killers, dedicated to adrenaline-increasing rhythms and lyrics about wielding your power, can put the gas right back in your tank. When you’re feeling a dip in your self-esteem, perhaps a hip-hop track from someone like J. Cole or Logic, dedicated to finding your inner badass could help shift your perspective. Dealing with a bout of sadness? Turn to one of the many pop stars, like Demi Lovato, Sia or Kelly Clarkson, who have made it their musical mission to boost your serotonin.
But which songs are the best at providing those uplifting messages? Below, Billboard takes a look at 25 songs, ranging from four-on-the-floor anthems to plaintive ballads, that help you remember to be strong and never give up.