Top 20 Songs That Will Make You Feel Empowered

In this disco classic, Chaka Khan joyously celebrates the power of women. “I’m Every Woman” is vibrant, fun, and danceable. It’s a song that makes you appreciate the power of the female voice while simultaneously wanting to hit the floor. There’s a mystical quality to the lyrics, with Khan’s distinctive voice selling every line and making it clear that every woman is a superhero. With all the good vibes of a show stopping production, this legendary single comes together to make you think as you sing along. The vocalist proves that she is the absolutely best person to deliver this song’s important message.

With a mix of new wave and punk energy, Billy Idol delivers this sonic tribute to independence. You’re dancing alone? What’s wrong with that! The electric chorus features all the snarling-fury of Idol’s best performances. His assertive tone drives home the strong message about being comfortable in your own skin. It’s rare that somebody praises the notion of doing something by themselves, giving listeners another reminder to reconsider their priorities. “Dancing with Myself” effectively offers up the theory that you can move around without the need for a romantic partner to validate you.

Through all of the band’s personal problems, Fleetwood Mac still came through with amazing and empowering releases. “Go Your Own Way” remains one of their most enduring works from an album that also produced classics like “Don’t Stop.” Writer Lindsey Buckingham presents a tale where someone realizes they should leave a relationship, recounting the many problems between him and his partner. It’s somewhat bittersweet while also presenting some hope for the future. Buckingham’s lyrics feature some complaints, but they also give you the sense that these two would be better off without each other. The hit single encourages listeners to re-examine their partnerships and consider independence once more.

On the hit “Titanium,” Sia’s mighty voice fills out David Guetta’s massive production. The lyrics tell the story of someone that doesn’t let words puncture her armor. It’s ultimately a song about strength, resilience, and determination. With a booming sound, the entire track makes you feel like you’re ready to take the stage at an arena show. The incredible depth and tone of the singer’s vocals only hammer home this point. We can all tap into this universal theme, singing along and remembering all the hardships we’ve overcome. Listeners might not be able to belt out like this artist, but they can definitely learn something from the lyrical metaphors.

From the soundtrack for “Saturday Night Fever,” this Bee Gees single is synonymous with John Travolta’s strut in the film’s opening scene. It makes you want to get up and stroll down the street like you own the place. “Stayin’ Alive” is also about survival in uncertain times. You can apply your own life to this song, with everyone needing a pep talk once in a while. The disco beat and iconic vocals only make this that much more memorable. We can’t all be as cool as Travolta’s Tony, but we can definitely take a positive message out of this hit.

Many of Lizzo’s biggest hits are all about feeling good about yourself. Her fun singles talk about empowerment and body positivity without becoming didactic and feeling like a lesson. These include tracks like “Good as Hell” and her later work on “About Damn Time.” The former encourages female audiences to take back their lives, not letting any man or anyone else dictate their lives. The music is extremely catchy which helps drive home the inspiring lyrics. Every once in a while, we all need a chance to stop and give ourselves some love. This particular piece lets listeners do that and so much more.

This artist is undoubtedly one of the icons of any era. The pop star also frequently has something to say, infusing hits like “Express Yourself” with an important lesson. She inspires women to take another look at their relationship and demand more. Rather than settling for something less than great, the singer wants people to dump lackluster partners. It’s a bold and direct take on an issue that many listeners can find relatable. It also comes wrapped in a pristine production, pushing the artist’s pop sound even further. Madonna is certainly a trailblazing legend that easily handles the balance between making memorable music and expressing a personal philosophy.

This 80s hit for Elton John brings together the artist’s brilliant music with Bernie Taupin’s lyrics. It can be interpreted many different ways, but the lyricist claims it’s all about showing your ex that you’re doing better without them. You can also consider it a fantastic song for taking on any number of meanings depending on the listener. John certainly brings all of his career experience and personal life to this track, imbuing it with even more power. There’s a theme of survival that runs throughout the verses and the enjoyable chorus. Whether you’re in need of a pick-me-up or some further encouragement, “I’m Still Standing” gives audiences something to hang on to.

Taking pop rock to another level, Pink brings a whole lot of attitude to this track. The hit finds the singer without a spouse and ready to be bachelorette. She then decides to play up her rockstar lifestyle, drink, and party with her newfound freedom. The artist gives audiences a glimpse into a semi-autobiographical episode of her life. Becoming a free spirit, the narrator definitely seems to be embracing the joys of being single again. She also doesn’t seem to care about what anybody else thinks. You could take a few warnings from these lyrics, but you can also find a few lessons about focusing on your own life for a change.

Throughout this hit single, Katy Perry discusses an elaborate and empowering change. She talks about how she used to hold back before embracing her final form. With the chorus, Perry uses the title to accentuate her transformation into a confident person. The song gives everyone listening a reminder that you can be assertive. It’s an uplifting tune that inspires people to speak up, break out, and show off their inner strength. She also provides an impressive vocal full of some mighty high notes. Telling off the people holding her down, the performer shows that she’s not playing second fiddle to anybody anymore.

If you look up “happiness” in the dictionary, you might just find this Katrina and the Waves track. It’s a song that’s almost guaranteed to make you feel good. “Walking on Sunshine” is all about when you know you’re finally in love with someone. It’s the kind of feeling that makes you supremely confident, wiping away all the worries of yesterday. Katrina’s excited vocal really sells the tune’s infectious melody. Even if you don’t have a relationship, this single still fills you with a surge of positive energy. You’ll definitely want to go out and find romance after hearing this again.

Reminding everyone of her powerful voice, Kelly Clarkson once again gives audiences a reason to love her. She doesn’t disappoint with some exceptional high notes and a track that we can all take to heart. If you’re facing down personal problems, “Stronger” lets you know that it’s all part of the experience. Clarkson gives you another reason to be thankful that you’re any kind of survivor. Coming back stronger than ever, the singer makes it clear that you’re better off moving on with the knowledge you’ve gained. It might be a little hard to sing along with this kind of voice, but the performer’s encouraging words will have you ready to face any challenge.

Shania Twain takes no prisoners in this hit. Skillfully blending pop and country, she celebrates all things womanhood with one of her most famous tunes. The lyrics are all about going out, being stylish, and the prerogative to have a little fun. Twain’s vocals guide you through a rollicking good time for female listeners everywhere. The title’s clever wordplay is just one enjoyable part of this track. She reminds people that it’s important to be yourself, while also living it up as much as you can. The artist ultimately gives you an excuse to be fun-loving, free, and unafraid to act up.

Lady Gaga doesn’t mince words about her convictions in this mega-hit. She’s proudly waving the flag for anyone that feels different. This includes marginalized communities of all kinds that Gaga supports, with the latter being a strong ally in this big-time production. It’s a triumphant number that blends catchy pop sounds with a positive point-of-view. The lyrics depict a confident character who stands firm in their convictions. Unable to be swayed by outside noise, she knows that she should be loved just as much as anybody. We can all learn something from the performer’s encouraging anthem.

In the battle of the sexes, Beyoncé lays out her final ruling on the endless debate. According to her, women run the world and we’re not about to argue with an icon. This anthem is nothing short of a powerful statement against the patriarchy. It’s also an emboldening campaign that reminds everyone of the endless sacrifice, unconditional love, and strength of women. It also happens to be one of the artist’s most quotable, catchy, and noticeable releases in a catalog full of equally worthy tunes. For any female listeners out there needing some encouragement, this song comes ready with all the beats and aspirational phrases you need to get through the day.

In this classic 80s rock song, Pat Benatar sings about a womanizer that’s finally met his match. The chorus alone shows that the main character isn’t afraid of the man’s tricks. She is more than capable of taking care of herself against a lothario that thinks he’s all that. The heroine knows her way around liars and cheats, clearly exhibiting all the traits of a true badass. It’s fair to say that she represents a strong personality in the face of opposition and uncertainty. Asking the man to hit her with his best shot, the vocalist sends a clear message about standing your ground.

For this classic pop hit, ABBA recounts the story of a teenager that loves to dance. The lyrics highlight the beauty of going to a club and enjoying the music. They also tell listeners that you can enjoy yourself and be in the moment. Complete with two fantastic vocal performances, the disco production is among the happier sounding songs ever made. You may or may not relate to the teenage dancer, but you will definitely learn a thing or two from the central idea. “Dancing Queen” implies that you can enjoy life, be independent, and not need validation. The Swedish icons give audiences an inspiring song about living in the moment and throwing your cares away.

As one of the most skilled singers ever, Aretha Franklin sang her fair share of legendary tunes. This particular track is one of her finest anthems, alongside the compelling “Think.” “Respect” is a direct message to anyone thinking about crossing Franklin or women in general. The talented vocalist covers Otis Redding’s song, turning it into an important statement about female empowerment and independence. With a passionate vocal performance, this iconic production asks for men to reconsider how they treat the opposite sex. You can’t deny the important lesson that the artist breathes into every word.

Freddie Mercury managed to capture all the highs of being in your element with this song. Mercury’s ode to debauchery can be used for any number of situations. In the mood for a good time, the singer sets up his ideal night. Musically, the peppy and energized production ramps up as the lyrics become more colorful. Queen’s performance doesn’t disappoint as the driving rock sound makes you feel like you’re the superstar, encouraging you to make the most of your evening. It works like the perfect soundtrack for forgetting your inhibitions and having a great time.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Espresso” (2024), Sabrina Carpenter
This Summer Bop Is a Joyful Track About a Woman Embracing Her Power Over Men

“Unwritten” (2004), Natasha Bedingfield
The Artist Encourages Listeners to Start Writing the Next Chapter of Their Lives

“It’s a Beautiful Day” (2013), Michael Bublé
The Singer Brightens Everyone’s Mood with His Grateful Lyrics

“Good Day” (2024), Forrest Frank
This Optimistic Tune Asks People to Look On the Bright Side of Life

“Shake It Off” (2014), Taylor Swift
The Pop Icon Claps Backs at the Haters in This Fun-Filled Number

In all of its disco glory, this track from Gloria Gaynor is nothing short of legendary. “I Will Survive” starts on a down-note as the singer describes her post-breakup life. The song then shifts as Gaynor discovers that there’s plenty to be happy about. There’s a free-spirited energy here that’s infectious, letting listeners get involved with a hopeful message. Some people see the end of a relationship as the final step, but this song tells people to be proud about throwing your ex out. The powerful lyrics prove that you can survive as long as you keep your heart open for the future.

What classic empowerment anthem did we forget? Let us know in the comments below.