Everyone needs a little motivation and confidence boost once in a while. And one of the best ways to lift your spirits up is to listen to songs about power.
These songs tackle power in different ways; some artists associate it with prestige, and others see it more personally and emotionally.
Either way, this powerful playlist will certainly help you believe that you can do anything you set your mind to!
1. “Power to the People” by John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band
During the 1960s, a common protest term that individuals used to voice their disapproval of the government and the Vietnam War was “Power to the People.”
A conversation with political activists Robin Blackburn and Tariq Ali provided John and Yoko with the impetus to write a song that could be sung by the general public and utilized for political purposes.
The lyrics encourage the initiation of a revolution, the payment of employees with the wages they deserve, and the proper treatment of women.
2. “Power” by Kanye West
It’s not a coincidence that this rap-rock blockbuster is one of Yeezy’s most stirring compositions; in the first line, he informs us, “I guess every superhero needs his theme music.”
Yeezy is one of the most popular rappers in the world right now. However, what makes “Power” such an interesting song is the way in which its words alternate from being conceited and cynical, and then being ambiguous and self-aggrandizing.
West raps on the chorus, “No one man should have all that power,” and “The clock’s ticking, I just count the hours.” ‘The clock’s ticking, I just count the hours.’ “Power” is Kanye West at his most bombastic and intricate.
3. “Power & Control” by Marina & The Diamonds
The Welsh singer Marina Diamandis used to perform under the stage name “Marina and the Diamonds,” and it was under this guise that she recorded the song “Power & Control.”
The track was included on Marina’s second studio album, titled “Electra Heart,” and it was the album’s second single to be made available to the public.
In an interview, Marina noted that the song is about the unpleasant power struggle that some people feel in relationships, particularly when one person wants to have the upper hand.
In collaboration with Steve Angello, a former member of Swedish House Mafia, Marina penned the song.
4. “Soul Power” by James Brown
This record by James Brown was first published in three separate sections.
The first part was available in a lengthier version that was played live; however, the complete 12-minute version wasn’t made available on a CD until 1996.
The term “soul power” refers to a spiritual strength that resides within a person; yet, the origin of this power and what it actually signifies might differ from person to person.
Regardless of how you feel about the topic being discussed, listening to this song might make you feel more positive and self-confident in general.
5. “People Have the Power” by Patti Smith
Despite the fact that it was released in 1988, a period when Smith was primarily focused on raising her family and was, for all intents and purposes, retired from her music career, “People Have the Power” has become a highlight of the punk icon’s live concerts.
It’s not hard to figure out why; it’s an upbeat rock song with lyrics that seem more pertinent now than they ever have before.
When Smith sings, “People have the power to redeem the work of fools,” she’s conveying a notion that can be applied to a variety of different political events that are happening right now.
6. “Feeling Myself” by Beyonce and Nicki Minaj
Beyoncé and American rapper Nicki Minaj collaborated on the song “Feeling Myself,” which was released as a single from Minaj’s third studio album, The Pinkprint (2014).
It was written by both performers, while Hit-Boy was responsible for the production of the song.
Both MCs boast about their sexual abilities and their financial success throughout the cheerful track.
The song “Feeling Myself” was released as the album’s third official single on May 18, 2015, and it was sent to urban radio stations in the United States on the same day.
The single received generally favorable reviews, with many of them appreciating the connection that Minaj and Beyoncé shared on the track.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 list in the United States and the top 20 in a number of other countries.
On May 21, 2015, an accompanying music video created by Beyoncé and Ricky Saiz was made available for the first time on the internet.
It shows both artists strutting their stuff at various fashion establishments to show off their wealth.
7. “Higher Power” by Coldplay
This song is about the lead vocalist, Chris Martin, falling hopelessly in love with another person.
He has the impression that they have “got a higher power,” which not only makes his life more joyful but also helps him get through the day.
This song will definitely take you to another place since it is influenced by the mainstream music of the 1980s, and the music video depicts a cyberpunk world in the far future, complete with aliens.
The song made its debut in 2021 and peaked at position 12 in the UK but only position 53 in the US.
8. “We Are the Champions” by Queen
You wouldn’t think to expect modesty from a band called Queen, yet “We Are the Champions” isn’t quite as boastful as you might imagine it to be.
While it’s true that the chorus is full of heart-swelling splendor, the lyrics detail an appealingly theatrical victory over hardship, “I’ve had my share of sand kicked in my face, but I’ve come through.”
It doesn’t matter how hard you try to avoid singing along to this tune; researchers have already determined that it is the most infectious tune in history.
9. “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson
Many of Kelly Clarkson’s songs are about discovering your own strength, and “Stronger” is probably the most well-known of her songs that encourage positive self-change and personal growth.
The lesson may be learned from the proverb that says “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
Throughout her career, Kelly has had her fair share of detractors, yet she has managed to prevail in every situation.
People are urged to stand higher, even when they are by themselves. You don’t necessarily have to be lonely just because you’re alone yourself, because the day when someone leaves you is the beginning of a new beginning.
One of the best and most powerful breakup songs ever written, “Stronger” is all about reclaiming your power when a relationship has ended.
10. “Girl Power” by Shampoo
The band Shampoo wrote a song called “Girl Power” to honor the strength and independence of women.
The lyrics encourage female listeners to embrace who they are without apology and to resist the need to conform to the expectations of others.
The lyrics serve as a wonderful reminder that women are capable of doing everything they set their minds to. The song’s lyrics discuss independent women who go for what they desire in life.
Girls not only need to be bold, but they also need to demonstrate to the world that they are capable of doing anything.
11. “Your Power” by Billie Eilish
If you’re searching for fresh songs with power in the title, this one’s for you.
Billie Eilish released “Your Power” on her 2021 studio album “Happier Than Ever”, and it’s arguably one of the most stunning tracks on the album.
It’s slow-paced, gentle, and melancholic, and it talks about people who abuse their power and take advantage of others.
12. “Run The World (Girls)” by Beyoncé
Beyoncé has many songs about different sorts of power, but her most power-filled song is definitely “Run The World (Girls)”.
Queen B knows how to write catchy pop hits that also deliver important messages. And “Run The World” is no different.
As she claims in one part of the song, her persuasion, and endless power can build a nation.
13. “Q.U.E.E.N.” by Janelle Monáe and Erykah Badu
Another song you can add to your girl power playlist is Janelle Monáe’s “Q.U.E.E.N.”.
It’s a simple, catchy, and groovy tune featuring lyrics about acceptance, diversity, and the power of a woman. And sometimes the real power of a song lies in its simplicity.
14. “Nina Cried Power” by Hozier
For Hozier, this song is about “crediting the legacy and the result of protest”.
In a way, “Nina Cried Power” is truly a raw protest song that can be associated with many different topics and issues.
It’s compelling, thoughtful, and emotional, and it’s arguably one of his best works so far.
15. “Energy” by Sampa the Great
Another compelling song about power and legacy is “Energy” by the Zambian singer and rapper Sampa the Great.
Some songs are simply imbued with strength and strong but subtle energy.
And “Energy” is one of them – this song will make you feel more confident and determined from the very beginning.
16. “Take The Power Back” by Rage Against the Machine
“Take The Power Back” is undeniably one of the most popular rock/metal songs about power.
Some people refer to it as a cousin to Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power”, and that definitely makes sense.
After all, the song talks about fighting the system and corrupt individuals, and it suggests its listeners question their authority. It’s pure Rage Against the Machine.
17. “Music Is Power” by Richard Ashcroft
We agree with Richard Ashcroft: music is power.
Some songs can help you get through some rough times and motivate you to keep going.
Others will immediately cheer you up and make you feel better. And Richard Ashcroft’s 2006 track is a perfect example.
18. “Power Over Me” by Dermot Kennedy
Even if you don’t listen to Dermot Kennedy’s music, you’ve probably heard of his single “Power Over Me”.
After being released on the singer’s debut album in 2018, the song quickly became a huge radio hit.
The song is quite catchy, and the message behind it is pretty straightforward – people can have power over us in different ways.
19. “Powerless” by Rudimental and Becky Hill
Although it’s called “Powerless”, this song will undoubtedly make you feel powerful.
It’s very emotional and both heartwarming and intense, just like many other collaborations of this British drum and bass band.
Rudimental released it back in 2013, but it still sounds very fresh.
20. “Powerless” by Nelly Furtado
In fact, there are many songs with ‘powerless’ in the title or the lyrics that sound incredibly motivating and uplifting.
Nelly Furtado also wrote a song named “Powerless”. It’s a part of her iconic pop album “Folklore” released in 2003.
“Powerless” is a nice throwback and a positive, lively song that will help you get through the day.
21. “Solar Power” by Lorde
Lorde’s 2021 hit is a song about a special kind of power.
Just like the rest of the album, “Solar Power” will make you feel like you’re sitting on the white-sand beach and listening to the song of the sea. It sounds very natural, easy-going, and liberating.
Also, Lorde explained that “Solar Power” was inspired by her trip to Antarctica and taking action against climate change, so the connection of the song’s title to clean energy isn’t a coincidence.
22. “The Power Of Love” by Frankie Goes To Hollywood
There’s another type of power that is crucial for life on this planet: the power of love.
And this 1984 ballad by Frankie Goes To Hollywood is arguably one of the most famous songs about love’s immense power.
Many artists made their own version of this song, including Gabrielle Aplin who topped the UK singles chart in 2012.
23. “Powerful” by Major Lazer, Ellie Goulding and Tarrus Riley
Another song about the power of love is “Powerful” released in 2015 on Major Lazer’s third studio album.
Although Major Lazer released many energy-packed hits, “Powerful” sounds more peaceful and sentimental. And that makes sense since it’s basically a love song.
24. “Money Power Glory” by Lana Del Rey
Of course, many artists associate power with money and prestige. However, Lana Del Rey tackles this topic in her characteristic way.
“Money Power Glory” is sensual, captivating, and a bit melancholic, just like most of the songs on her album “Ultraviolence”.
25. “The Power Of The Heart” by Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel approaches the topic of power and love in a very delicate way.
His ballad “The Power Of The Heart” is gentle and thoughtful.
He released it in 2010, and although it’s not one of his most memorable tunes, it’s definitely worth mentioning.
26. “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone
Nina Simone had the power to change people’s lives with her music. And “Feeling Good” is arguably one of her most iconic songs.
Nina wrote “Feeling Good” to express a feeling of euphoria. But not just any kind of euphoria – it’s a kind of happiness that comes with freedom and liberation of oppression.
One thing is for sure: “Feeling Good” is one of the most powerful songs ever written.
27. “Won’t Stand Down” by Muse
Muse is a band known for making energetic and epic-sounding music about humanity, politics, and social issues.
And their song “Won’t Stand Down” is a great example of what we’re talking about.
The song is full of strong emotions and energy, so if you need something that will make you feel invincible, look no further than this 2022 track.
28. “King” by Florence and The Machine
Another song you can listen to when you feel low is “King” by Florence and The Machine. It was released on the band’s new album “Dance Fever”.
The song starts gently, and then slowly transforms into a compelling rollercoaster of emotions.
Florence made many powerful songs, and “King” is undeniably one of them.
29. “Unstoppable” by Sia
If you feel alone or powerless, perhaps you need some good music to remind you of what you’re capable of.
Sia dedicated her song “Unstoppable” to everyone who feels that way. It’s ultimately a song about empowerment and building resilience.
As the chorus says: I’m so confident that I’m unstoppable today.
30. “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar
Whether you like Taylor Swift or not, you have to admit that this song is pretty powerful. It bursts with strength and confidence, and it will boost your energy anytime you feel down.
However, Taylor wrote “Bad Blood” about an undisclosed female musician who tried to sabotage her tour. So, it’s actually a revengeful song, but it feels very empowering either way.
Songs About Power – Final Thoughts
People associate power with different things – and that can especially be seen in music.
Most songwriters think about power as love or inner strength. In both cases, songs can turn out very sentimental and motivating.
However, there are also many songs that simply sound powerful – and we often need them to make us feel stronger and more confident.
So, come back to our playlist anytime you need a little pick-me-up!
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