Another Top 10 Songs That Will Always Make You Smile
When these start to play, your blues melt away. Welcome to WatchMojo.com and today we'll be counting down our picks for another Top 10 Songs That Will Always Make You Smile.
For this list, we'll be looking at those songs that have the power to change your mood and make the world seem like a brighter place.
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#10: “Three Little Birds” (1977)
Bob Marley and the Wailers
This laid-back reggae beat is a great way to start your day, or finish it off, with a smile. Legend has it that the song was inspired by canaries that used to visit Marley at his home. While this has not been proven it is a wholesome thought. The song’s lyrics are timeless and send the message of letting go and accepting the way things are, because eventually everything works out . This message combined with the reggae rhythm makes it a relaxing song perfect for those days you’re feeling down, or if you just want to lay back and enjoy the world go by.
#9: “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010)
Shakira
The FIFA World Cup is a time of excitement and where athletes push themselves to their physical limits. In 2010, it created one of the happiest anthems in the history of sports to commemorate the event. It has everything you could want from a pump-up song with inspirational lyrics, Afro-Colombian rhythm, and a catchy beat. The song did face controversy, though, as many felt like an African artist should have been chosen since Africa was hosting the event. Despite this controversy, the song has experienced international success and continues to bring smiles to athletes and non-athletes alike.
#8: “Don’t Stop Me Now” (1978)
Queen
Queen songs can make you happy just singing along, this is partly because the lyrics always flow seamlessly with the music. “Don’t Stop Me Now” is definitely no different. It’s fast, upbeat, and with lyrics like ‘a tiger defying the laws of gravity,’ this song will have you feeling indestructible. For reasons that defy logic, it didn’t receive immediate success in the US and took some time to climb the charts. Now we couldn’t picture a road trip without it, or a night when you want to have yourself a real good time!
#7: “Move On Up” (1970)
Curtis Mayfield
If you need 9 minutes of uninterrupted happiness in your life, and really who doesn’t, then look no further than “Move On Up.” A combination of 70’s soul and funk, it was released on Mayfield’s debut solo album titled “Curtis.” Mayfield sings about the roller coaster ride that is life. At times it may get rocky, but you should forever keep moving and never give up . The song has been influential in soul music and beyond, so it made sense when Kanye West used a sample of the iconic song in his 2006 single, “Touch the Sky” . Detailing his rise to fame, Kanye’s version only reasserts the message in “Move On Up.”
#6: “You Can Call Me Al” (1986)
Paul Simon
You know that when a song has a penny whistle solo you’re in for a good time. The title and chorus of the song was born out of a funny encounter where composer/conductor Pierre Boulez called Paul and his wife, Peggy, by the names Al and Betty . We’ve all had those moments, but like Bob Ross might say, this proved to be “a happy little accident” and created this gem of a song . The actual meaning of the song is open to interpretation due to its metaphors, but generally it’s all about finding yourself in the world, something that definitely needs some musical inspiration.
#5: “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” (1979)
Michael Jackson
Ahhh, MJ, when he comes on the radio you dance, you sing, and you definitely smile. There are so many great Michael Jackson songs to choose from, but ultimately we went with “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” since it marked many firsts in what would be a legendary career. It was Michael’s first solo record under Epic Records. It marked his first solo Grammy and American Music Award, and it also presented his signature vocal ‘hiccup.’ It started Michael’s solo career on a high-note. The song is pure electricity and it’s impossible not to dance when it starts to play .
#4: “Sweet Caroline” (1969)
Neil Diamond
Ever since its release in 1969, the song has developed its own unique history. Originally, Diamond stated it was written for JFK’s daughter, Caroline Kennedy. However, he later admitted that he was writing it for his wife, Marsha. Sweet Marsha just doesn’t flow the same . It developed a strong significance for the people of Boston, as it has been played at every Boston Red Sox home game since 2002. In 2013, Diamond announced that he would donate the royalties to help victims of the Boston Marathon bombing. This wholesome history only improves the smile factor of this song. Good times really never looked so good.
#3: “Celebration” (1980)
Kool & the Gang
We said this list was for songs that make you smile, making you dance is just an added bonus. When this little number starts to play, your body moves with a will of its own. “Celebration” was written with help from all 9 members of ‘the gang.’ With so many talented artists coming together, it’s no wonder that it has experienced international success. A staple for parties and weddings, it guarantees that everyone will come to the dance floor and have a good time. You don’t even need a reason to put on this baby. If you are feeling good throw on this track and celebrate.
#2: “September” (1978)
Earth, Wind & Fire
It's got groove that will make you move, plus, it's certified gold baby! This was songwriter Allee Willis’ first attempt at writing for the band. She learned from Maurice White, the band’s front man, that sometimes the groove is more important than the lyric; which explains the repetition of “Bada Ya.” It is the very groove of the song, the seamless flow of the lyrics, and White’s peppy tenor that makes it such a joy to listen to . A perfect way to chase the clouds away.
Before we reveal our top picks here are a few honorable mentions.
“It’s a Beautiful Day” (2013)
Michael Bublé
“Nine in the Afternoon” (2008)
Panic! at the Disco
“Send Me on My Way” (1995)
Rusted Root
#1: “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” (1988)
Bobby McFerrin
Well, you heard the man, or in some cases that freaky-singing fish hung on the wall. Fish aside, this was the first a cappella song to take the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and even knocked out Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine” in the process . The simple mantra of ‘don’t worry be happy’ was actually inspired by Meher Baba, a spiritual master, who would repeat this message to his followers . Those uplifting four words, combined with the songs soothing melody, are bound to melt anyone’s worries away.