Top 30 Pop Songs That Will Always Make You Smile

Shania Twain

Nothing gets people smiling quite like empowerment. As soon as you hear that guitar riff and rallying cry, you know exactly what you’re in for. Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” appeals to everybody across the board. Having been inspired by drag artists she worked alongside, the song celebrates the worth of any individual. The lower-pitched, slightly more casual verses juxtaposed with the bright, infectiously happy chorus make it practically impossible to listen along without smiling at least a little bit. The popularity it saw allowed it to be used in other projects, causing its positivity to be spread to an even broader audience. Its optimistic attitude and message have ensured that people will keep smiling along for years to come.

Three Dog Night

This track is proof that some upbeat songs can be carried off their vibes alone. Although some of the lyrics may be nonsensical, “Joy to the World” is so optimistic that it’s easy to look past them and focus solely on the positive message being put forth. The track has been described as being for children— which isn’t necessarily a slight. Rather, it’s so wholesome that it can appeal to all ages— children included. As if the content isn’t enough, the backstory is even more heartwarming. Making the tune helped the band members reconnect, revitalizing their relationship just before releasing one of their most successful works. Knowing all the positive change it’s brought makes it hard to listen without cracking a smile even once.

Gloria Gaynor

There’s something about someone realizing their own self-worth that always feels so triumphant. “I Will Survive” is all about leaving a harmful lover and being much better off for it. It’s a celebration of self-worth, with a message that anyone can relate to. Although it starts out dramatic and slow, it quickly kicks into high gear, causing practically anyone to bop along to it. Its use as an anthem for the AIDS movement has encouraged several sick or disenfranchised people to fight through their illness or the social stigmas affecting them. Although it’s been adopted with that specific meaning, it’s still easy to listen and happily sing along. It serves as the ultimate beacon of light and positivity in moments of seemingly unending darkness.

Cyndi Lauper

The instrumental and production alone are enough to get anyone off their feet and ready to dance. And that infectiously upbeat synth heard throughout it gets even the most ardent of cynics to smile. Lauper took the song and helped morphed the track to her own liking, creating a version that expressed the meaning more clearly and inspired more positive emotion. The delightfully off-beat music video only adds to the good vibe, as it practically encourages viewers to let go of their worries and have fun. It’s everything people loved about the 80s bottled up into one iconic track, bringing about a sense of nostalgia for the era that anyone can appreciate— even if they weren’t alive for it.

Dexys Midnight Runners

Sometimes simplicity is the way to go when it comes to making someone happy through song. “Come On Eileen’s”lyrics are straightforward and romantic, all about focusing only on your loved one rather than all the negativity going on around you. With a message like that, it’s nearly impossible not to take heed and stop what you’re doing to enjoy yourself. The way the tempo pulls back only to progressively build up into a final crescendo during the bridge really grabs the listener. By the time the final chorus kicks in, practically everyone will be up and dancing. Its history in helping bring support to England’s national football team testifies to its ability to generate a good mood.

Journey

If you want to talk about optimism in music, then there’s no need to look any further than this instantly recognizable song. The track has particular meaning to Journey, as it symbolizes the hard work they put in before breaking through in the early 1980s. This triumphant power ballad ended up taking them to even higher heights in the process. While it’s especially relevant for the band, the uplifting lyrics can apply to anyone who needs a little extra encouragement in their everyday lives. It’s hard not to feel that sense of hope as you sing along. By the time that chorus finally kicks in, any thoughts of a bad day have completely vanished.

Whitney Houston

This won’t just make you want to smile – it’ll make you want to get up and groove, too. The now iconic “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is an uplifting anthem to anyone searching for “the one.” Whitney’s soaring voice wrings so much from the lyrics, infusing each word with pure hope and yearning. Meanwhile, the upbeat tempo keeps it from becoming too emotional. Everything comes to a head during the climax of the piece – and if you’re not smiling by then, you certainly will be once it's done. The sheer love Houston throws into each line makes it impossible to listen to without feeling your heart well up with joy.

Louis Armstrong

Even seemingly serious songs are capable of evoking joy. Though it may sound more melancholy, “What a Wonderful World” is anything but. The lyrics encourage listeners to really take in the beauty of the world around them, from the trees to the vast sky above. They also point out smaller, supposedly mundane aspects of life, such as simply shaking a friend’s hand. While they seem like small moments in the grand scheme of things, the way they’re sung about makes one realize how beautiful they really are. The message is so strong that it comes through even when being played in other forms of entertainment. The piece is essentially bottled hope and contentment – which is enough to bring a happy tear to many people’s eyes.

Michael Bublé

Even when things appear to be rough, looking on the bright side of things can potentially help turn your mood around completely. Michael Bublé captured this perfectly in his sunny and cheery track, “It’s a Beautiful Day.” He describes feeling stressed by the world until he disconnects and focuses on the simple beauty found in his everyday life. His shining, buoyant vocals convey this, helping listeners take on the day with a brand new perspective. Even when things seem like they’re falling apart, taking a step back and realizing how good of a day it is could help turn it around, as this song reminds us.

Daryl Hall & John Oates

Listening to this could make even the most cold-hearted cynic let down their defenses. The carefree arrangement is the perfect backdrop to the sweet lyrics that swoon over a loved one and how they can make the singer instantly forget about their problems. “You Make My Dreams” is shamelessly upbeat and merry, and it’s proof that a song doesn’t need to have a ton of bells and whistles to be effective.The piece also has a near-permanent association with happiness for fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs who used it as a celebration track for several years. It’s the perfect song to help you forget your worries.

Katrina and The Waves

Life always looks that little bit better when the weather's on your side, but for Katrina and the Waves, happiness just doesn't come any stronger than this! "Walking on Sunshine" is happy songwriting at its very best, coupled with a catchy, 'can't get it out of your head' kind of melody! A regular on many movie and TV soundtracks, it's a record best played at the beginning of the day, and is the perfect fit for any summer playlist! It'll have you heading to the beach in no time.

Abba

Whether it really is 'Friday night and the lights are low’ or just any other evening of the week, this song will always leave you smiling from ear to ear. A worldwide number one hit for Swedish Euro disco pioneers ABBA, "Dancing Queen" is probably one of the most iconic records of the twentieth century. From the piano intro to the harmonic fade-out, we've been 'digging the dancing queen' for decades now, and we'll likely do so for decades to come as well!

Electric Light Orchestra

Another weather-related record at number 18, and one of the most instantly upbeat songs ever sung! With lyrics that literally play out the replacement of a rainy day with a sunny one, "Mr. Blue Sky" personifies the summer sky itself, and turns him into one helluva hero! Written by Jeff Lynne during a stay in the Swiss Alps, the ELO frontman had struggled for inspiration during a dark and misty two weeks in the country, but then the weather brightened up and so did his writing... Thus came the record you're probably singing along to right now!

The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5 had more skill than most when it came to making us smile, and though we almost went with the iconic “ABC”, "I Want You Back" just about edges it! The very first Jackson 5 single to be released by Motown Records, it launched the five-piece on their way to worldwide fame, and showcased to everybody the pop king potential of one Michael Jackson! Despite its love lost lyrics, the song is infectiously uplifting, no matter how hard your day has been.

Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars

A supremely stand-out song from more recent memory, "Uptown Funk" flows through just about everybody's veins when this record plays - and that is definitely something to smile about! Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars bring out the very best in each other for this one to create a worldwide hit with playful lyrics and a party startin' belter of a beat! Mars had previously got us grinning with "The Lazy Song", but while 'chillin' in our snuggie' sounds good, 'hittin' our hallelujah' sounds even better!

James Brown

"Uptown Funk" might never have been a thing at all, were it not for our next artist! Widely considered the founding father of Funk in general, James Brown could tap into human happiness unlike anybody else! "I Got You" is a signature tune, and a go to record for anyone who feels like getting their groove on! Dancing (and smiling) comes naturally whenever and wherever this song plays, and we all but guarantee that you're at least tapping your toes this very second!

Pharrell Williams

Forgive us if this choice seems a little on-the-nose, but "Happy" will have its listener feeling just that. When this song plays, the smiles seem to flow as freely as Pharrell Williams' award winning vocal work! A track produced as part of the "Despicable Me 2" soundtrack, it features in the film at a pivotal moment when super-villain Gru has fallen in love... The character dances through the streets saving ducklings and catching Frisbees, inspiring us all to get out and do the same thing!

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 attack. This wholesome history only improves the smile factor of this song. Good times really never looked so good.

The Beatles

Clearly, the sixties were a decade well worth smiling about. Up next, the Beatles, who with "Here Comes The Sun" created one of the most hummable hooks ever known! It's a record that we owe entirely to George Harrison who wrote it in Eric Clapton's garden and using one of Clapton's acoustic guitars. A song saturated in positivity, "All You Need Is Love" might've made our Beatles entry, but "Here Comes The Sun" has our smile just that bit broader!

The Temptations

Our faces might ache from having smiled so much so far, but buckle up because we’re only halfway there! A record with nothing but positive energy running through it, "My Girl"s lyrics are romantic beyond comparison... And its rhythmic, wave-like delivery helps lighten the mood of anybody listening! If you've had a hard day at the office, or gotten a poor grade at school, throw this on and dance away. Nothing can make you smile like “My Girl.”

Bob Marley & The Wailers

This laid-back reggae beat is a great way to start your day, or to finish it off. 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 watch the world go by.

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.

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.”

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.

Michael Jackson

Have you had enough yet? No? Then we’re not stopping here! 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 historic 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.’ The song is pure electricity and it’s next to impossible not to dance when it starts to play.

The Beach Boys

As with many entries on today's countdown, the idea of happiness is often synonymous with an idea of innocence - but in no other song is that relationship better felt than in this one! "Wouldn't It Be Nice" is an idealised version of the future, sung from one love-struck sweetheart to another. Fairly conservative as far as rock 'n' roll records go, it served as the opener to the Beach Boys' legendary “Pet Sounds” album, and has become a must-listen for any soon-to-be married couple.

Kool & the Gang

Basically all you need to know about the next entry is in the title. 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 this on, so what are you waiting for? Why not go put it on right this second and celebrate!

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 away the blues.

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 song's soothing melody, are bound to melt anyone’s worries away.

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. Nevertheless, it’s a timeless track now, and never fails to brighten up the room, no matter the occasion.



What song never fails to bring a smile to your face? Let us know in the comments below!