Everyone needs a little pick-me-up once in a while.
And one of the best ways to cheer yourself up is to play some good music.
To give you some ideas, we made a selection of the best happy songs.
These feel good anthems will instantly put you in a good mood!
1. “Walking On Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves
Let’s begin with one of the best feel good songs ever.
“Walking On Sunshine” sounds like the song’s title – it’s a ray of light in the form of music.
The song was released in 1983, and it eventually became a universal hit.
Musically, the song is fun and cheerful, and it will undoubtedly help you feel better, at least for a moment.
2. “Happy” by Pharrell
When thinking about popular happy songs, Pharrell’s “Happy” is one of the first tunes that come to mind.
It’s one of those catchy upbeat songs that get stuck in your head.
The song was written for the ‘Despicable Me’ animated movie, and it earned Pharrell a Grammy award and an Oscar nomination.
Apart from that, the song became even more popular after being featured in countless dance videos made by people around the world.
3. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
“Shake It Off” is one of the best songs to listen to when you’re feeling down.
It’s uplifting and danceable, and it conveys an important message.
It’s about ignoring other people’s bad comments and just doing your own thing.
So, the next time you’re not feeling your best, try to just shake it off!
4. “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince
Nothing lifts the spirits like a Prince song.
“Let’s Go Crazy” was one of Prince’s most popular songs and a staple for his concerts.
It was the opening track on both the album and the film ‘Purple Rain.’
And it’s a perfect good mood song – it will allow you to forget about everything and go crazy for a minute.
5. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
In short, “Dancing Queen” is one of those songs that make you smile.
It’s incredibly positive and genuine, and it doesn’t seem to get old.
Besides being a popular feel good anthem, “Dancing Queen” is also one of the group’s most successful songs.
It topped the charts in many countries.
And it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2015.
6. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
Without a doubt, “Don’t Stop Me Now” is one of the best upbeat songs ever written.
It’s Queen’s signature song and one of the most popular songs from the 70s.
It was written by Freddy Mercury, and it captures the essence of the Queen’s music perfectly.
If you need something to make you feel alive and confident, you can’t go wrong with “Don’t Stop Me Now.”
7. “Love On Top” by Beyonce
Bring the beat in!
“Love On Top” is one of those good vibe songs that will cheer you up right away.
It’s catchy, smooth, and uplifting, and the music video will make you want to dance.
The song is taken from Beyonce’s studio album “4” released in 2011.
8. “Good As Hell” by Lizzo
“Good As Hell” is Lizzo’s breakout song released in 2016.
The song quickly became a global chart-topping hit.
And that comes as no surprise – there’s something so optimistic and infectious about this song.
It’s one of the songs about being happy and simply feeling good in your own skin.
9. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cindy Lauper
“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is one of the most popular 80s songs.
It’s a fun upbeat song about having a good time.
It was originally recorded and released by Robert Hazard, but Cindy Lauper’s version remains the most popular.
The song is also widely regarded as a feminist anthem.
8. “I Got You” by James Brown
James Brown’s “I Got You” is arguably one of the most popular happy songs.
It’s an infectious 60s tune about, well, feeling good.
And sometimes that’s all you need – a simple, familiar melody that will remind you that everything will turn out fine in the end.
9. “Sunday Best” by Surfaces
“Sunday Best” is one of those good mood songs full of easy-going vibes.
It’s a simple, catchy tune released in 2019.
If you give it a chance, this song will make your day feel like Sunday.
Everyday can be a better day despite the challenge
All you gotta do is leave it better than you found it.
10. “Can’t Stop The Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
“Can’t Stop The Feeling” was written for the 2016 animated musical comedy ‘Trolls.’
And the song is an ultimate feel good song.
It’s very simple, catchy, and joyful.
Lyrically, “Can’t Stop The Feeling” is about love for others as well as yourself.
11. “My Way” by Aloe Blacc
Aloe Blacc’s “My Way” is one of those songs that make you happy.
It’s honest, tender, and uplifting.
And the lyrics will remind you that you can do anything you put your mind to.
You can do it your way.
12. “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
“Lovely Day” is hands down one of the best upbeat songs of all time.
It’s taken from Bill Withers’ 1977 album “Menagerie.”
Apart from being catchy and optimistic, the song is known for Withers’ sustained note – it’s 18 seconds long!
13. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
When it comes to happy pop songs, we can’t skip “Uptown Funk.”
To be more precise, the song is a mix of pop, funk, boogie, soul, and disco-pop.
And it has a 1980s-era funk music vibe.
What else do you need to brighten your day?
14. “Tightrope” by Janelle Monae
Janelle Monae released “Tightrope” in 2010.
It’s a danceable, soulful tune with a message.
In one of the interviews, Monae said the tightrope represents balance – and balance is always the key.
15. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
Without a doubt, “Good Vibrations” is one of the best feel good songs from the 60s.
It’s genuine, lively, and familiar.
And it was a huge hit in the 60s – it topped the charts in several countries.
Plus, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1994.
16. “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” by The Darkness
Another upbeat rock song that will cheer you up is “I Believe In A Thing Called Love.”
As the song’s title suggests, it talks about believing in love and simply doing your own thing.
And that’s exactly what the band managed to capture – that feeling of freedom and pure happiness.
17. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
Speaking of freedom and happiness, we have to mention Bob Marley.
He will always be remembered as a true music legend and a symbol of love, unity, and reggae.
“Three Little Birds” is one of his signature songs recorded in 1977, and is one of the best reggae songs of all time.
It’s an ultimate happy song that will remind you that everything will be alright.
18. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“September” is a popular disco hit from the 70s.
It’s also one of the good songs to listen to when you’re feeling down.
The song is about feeling happy and appreciating things you might be taking for granted.
19. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
And Gloria Gaynor will remind you that you can do anything.
Her timeless hit “I Will Survive” is one of the most popular 70s songs.
Lyrically, the song is about finding inner strength and moving on after a breakup.
20. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
“I Gotta Feeling” is one of those happy pop songs that will make you want to dance.
It’s a great song to listen to while getting ready for a night out.
So the next time you’re feeling down, turn the volume up and have a little dance – even if it’s in your living room.
21. “Turn Up the Music” by Chris Brown
You can also add “Turn Up The Music” to your party playlist.
It’s a catchy, danceable song about having a good time.
It was released in 2012, and it’s still one of the party favorites.
22. “I Love It” by Icona Pop ft. Charli XCX
Speaking of party music, “I Love It” is one of the essential party songs.
It’s uplifting and infectious, and it will make you dance the moment you hear it.
And it’s all about feeling carefree and enjoying yourself.
23. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii
“Wake Me Up” is one of the best songs to vibe to when you’re feeling great.
The chorus is very catchy and uplifting.
And the lyrics will help you appreciate all the important little things in your life.
24. “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash
“I Can See Clearly Now” is a song about feeling better.
It’s a perfect tune to listen to while you’re walking down the street.
The lyrics will help you appreciate the moment you’re in – the sunny weather, fresh air, and happy days you’ve been waiting for.
25. “Pocketful of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield
Another song ideal for a sunny walk is “Pocketful Of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield.
The song sounds very liberating, and it will help you feel the same way.
Lyrically, it’s about finding happiness even if you can’t really see it.
26. “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
“Don’t Worry Be Happy” is one of the top feel good songs.
The lyrics are so simple yet iconic.
After all, the best things in life are very simple – you just need to be able to recognize them.
27. “All You Need Is Love” by The Beatles
“All You Need Is Love” is one of the Beatles classics.
And it’s probably one of their most joyful songs.
It’s simple, honest, and sweet.
And it conveys an important message – love is all you need.
28. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is a classic.
It’s about finding someone special to share the happy moments with.
So in a way, it’s about a dance of life – and that’s why it sounds so liberating and sentimental.
29. “Good Life” by OneRepublic
If you’re searching for the music to make you happy, look no further.
“Good Life” has calm, positive vibes.
It’s about appreciating all the good things in life and finding beauty in the world around you.
30. “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train
“Hey, Soul Sister” was a huge hit when it came out.
And you can still occasionally hear it on the radio.
Well, that comes as no surprise since it’s very catchy.
Either way, Train’s 2009 chart-topping hit certainly deserves a place on this happy songs list.
31. “Best Days Of My Life” by American Authors
“Best Days Of My Life” is one of the ultimate feel good songs.
Lyrically, it’s about dreams, hopes, and living in the moment.
And the song’s banjo-laced lively melodies will help you appreciate the moment you’re in and simply celebrate life.
32. “Dance To The Music” by Sly & The Family Stone
If you’re feeling down, perhaps dancing your worries away might be a good idea.
And this groovy tune from the 60s will certainly put you on your feet.
Besides being danceable, the song is very cool and smooth.
33. “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“Wannabe” was released as Spice Girls’ debut single and became an iconic dance hit.
The song is also regarded as a girl power anthem.
Nonetheless, if you’re looking for exciting songs to dance to, you can’t go wrong with Spice Girls.
34. “Keep On Dancing” by The Gentrys
Another song that will put you in a good mood right away is “Keep On Dancing” by The Gentrys.
The song talks about positive thinking and moving forward regardless of what life brings you.
And sometimes this type of song is exactly what you need to feel better.
35. “The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson
Many would agree that “The Way You Make Me Feel” is one of the best happy songs of all time.
Either way, listening to Michael Jackson when you’re feeling great is always a good idea.
And there’s no doubt about it; Michael Jackson’s music will keep inspiring people for many years to come.
36. “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
There’s a scene in the ‘500 Days Of Summer’ movie where Joseph Gordon-Levitt is dancing around to this song.
And that’s exactly what this Hall & Oates’ hit evokes – positive feelings that will make you dance on the street.
“You Make My Dreams” will make you fall in love with the world.
37. “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge
“We Are Family” is one of the most popular songs about family.
It talks about being there for your family no matter what.
It’s also very cheerful and catchy, so it definitely deserves a place on your happy playlist.
38. “Just Fine” by Mary J. Blige
“Just Fine” is a popular upbeat song released in 2007.
Lyrically, the song is about being free and not letting anybody get in your way.
And that kind of message is what everyone needs to hear once in a while.
39. “Take On Me” by a-ha
Needless to say, “Take On Me” is an all-time classic.
It’s a synth-pop song released in 1984 on the group’s debut album.
And the song has been ruling radio stations around the world ever since.
40. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa
“Levitating” is one of Dua Lipa’s biggest hits.
It’s a song from her second studio album “Future Nostalgia” released in 2020.
And it’s a perfect mix of power pop, disco, and pop-funk.
Lyrically, it’s about being in love and feeling like you’re levitating.
41. “I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross
In essence, “I’m Coming Out” is a song about feeling good in your own skin.
It’s a celebration of love, people, and all our differences.
Thanks to the message it conveys, the song became an LGBTQ Pride anthem .
42. “Groove Is In The Heart” by Deee-Lite
“Groove Is In The Heart” is a perfect song to vibe to when you’re feeling happy.
It’s a groovy tune that doesn’t get old.
We’re going to dance
We’re going to dance and have some fun!
43. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye’s 1967 hit is an ultimate feel good tune.
It’s about being there for someone no matter what.
It’s an expression of pure love and happiness – and you can feel it in the melody.
44. “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae
“Put Your Records On” is a song that will put a smile on your face.
It’s sweet, positive, and relaxing.
And it’s such a great throwback.
45. “Sucker” by Jonas Brothers
“Sucker” by Jonas Brothers is a part of many happy songs lists.
Well, that comes as no surprise – the song is produced by Ryan Tedder, and it’s upbeat and catchy.
It was also the first song the group released after a six year break.
46. “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + The Machine
“Dog Days Are Over” is one of the best indie happy songs.
It’s characterized by lively melodies and Florence Welch’s mesmerizing vocals.
In a way, this song sounds like the first days of spring – heartwarming, hopeful, and liberating.
47. “Shiny Happy People” by R.E.M.
When it comes to popular songs about being happy, we can’t skip R.E.M. and “Shiny Happy People.”
Although it sounds cheerful, the song actually has a political undertone to it.
In a way, it mocks overly happy people, so it could also be connected to the concept of toxic positivity.
48. “Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles
There’s a big difference between toxic positivity and simply being content with yourself and what you have.
And “Here Comes The Sun” is a song that will remind you to keep it simple.
It’s a song about hope and the Sun as a symbol of light.
49. “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s “Sir Duke” is a great pick-me-up song.
It’s a soulful tune full of positive vibes.
And it was written as a tribute to Duke Ellington, one of the best jazz musicians of all time.
50. “Shut Up And Dance” by WALK THE MOON
“Shut Up And Dance” was released in 2014, and it has been ruling the radio stations ever since.
It’s a perfect song to listen to when you want to cheer yourself up.
Essentially, it’s a song about letting go of all your frustrations and having fun.
Best Happy Songs – Final Thoughts
We hope we cheered you up with our list of the best happy songs of all time.
All of these tunes sound like they’re made to put a smile on your face.
So the next time you’re feeling sad, worried, or overwhelmed, this list will be here to remind you that the sun shines even if you can’t see it at the moment.
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