Smiling is a universal expression of happiness.
It is a sign of joy, contentment, and comfort.
Music is a powerful tool for expressing emotions and thoughts.
Many songs about smiling and smiles have been written over the years.
This article looks at 15 of the best songs about smiling and smiles.
These songs are chosen for their popularity, longevity, and impact on listeners.
The songs range from classic hits to contemporary songs, representing a variety of genres.
Through these songs, listeners can explore the various meanings of smiling and its importance in our lives.
1. “Smile” by Nat King Cole
The classic song “Smile” by Nat King Cole, released in 1954, has been widely praised for its uplifting message and timeless melody.
Cole’s signature baritone voice delivers the song’s poignantly optimistic lyrics, which emphasize the importance of finding joy in life’s struggles.
The song’s composition is often noted for its use of chromaticism, creating an atmosphere of emotional intensity and tension.
Its powerful message and simple yet effective melody have made it a timeless classic, beloved by generations of music fans.
2. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
Released in 1988, Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is a timeless reminder to promote optimism and peace of mind.
The song’s message is simple yet profound, encouraging listeners to take life’s difficulties in stride and to focus on the positive.
McFerrin’s lighthearted delivery of the lyrics and jazzy instrumentation contributes to the song’s uplifting nature.
It serves as a reminder to appreciate the small joys in life and to choose happiness instead of worry.
The song’s success was immediate and it has since become an inspirational classic.
3. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Produced in 2013, “Happy” by Pharrell Williams is a highly infectious and upbeat song that celebrates the power of positivity.
Its cheerful melody, buoyant rhythm, and optimistic lyrics make it an anthem of hope and good vibes.
The song is an uplifting message of looking on the bright side, and its message of joy and contentment is clear.
Its message resonates with listeners and its joyful sound is a reminder to take life’s problems with a smile.
It is a powerful reminder to choose optimism and to never forget to appreciate the good things in life.
4. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
Debuting in 2016, Justin Timberlake‘s “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” is an upbeat and uplifting track that encourages listeners to embrace joy and positivity.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the idea of letting go of worries and allowing oneself to experience joy and contentment.
Musically, the song utilizes a bright major key with a strong dance beat and catchy hooks, making it a timeless pop classic.
The track’s message of embracing happiness is a powerful reminder of the importance of smiling and laughing.
5. “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash
Reaching the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1972, Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” is an uplifting and optimistic track that celebrates the idea of overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
The song’s lyrics are simple and direct, with Nash emphasizing the message of hope and positivity.
The melody is catchy and light, with Nash’s gentle vocal delivery creating a sense of joy and contentment.
The optimistic message of the song is further emphasized by the instrumentation, which features a light and airy feel.
The song is an uplifting and timeless classic that celebrates the power of hope and the ability to overcome adversity.
6. “Beautiful Day” by U2
Released in 2000 as the opening track to U2’s album All That You Can’t Leave Behind, “Beautiful Day” is an upbeat, up-tempo rock anthem that celebrates the idea of hope and the joy of living.
The song’s message of hope and positivity, coupled with its catchy melody, make it an ideal song to play when one is feeling down and in need of a smile.
U2’s powerful lyrics and driving guitar riffs culminate in an anthem that is sure to put a smile on the listener’s face.
7. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves
“Walking on Sunshine”, released in 1983 by Katrina and the Waves, is an iconic pop-rock song that extols the joy of living and the power of love.
The song has an upbeat and cheerful nature, with lyrics that describe how the power of love and sunshine can bring about feelings of happiness and hope.
The lyrics also include references to smiling, which further emphasizes the song’s positive message.
Musically, the song is instrumentally driven by a driving beat and catchy guitar riffs, creating an infectious and joyful atmosphere.
The combination of uplifting lyrics and memorable instrumentals make the song a timeless and cheerful anthem for smiling and joy.
8. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors is an uplifting and energetic pop-rock anthem that celebrates the beauty of life.
The song features a catchy chorus that repeats the phrase ‘this is gonna be the best day of my life’, conveying a sense of optimism and joy.
Instrumentally, the track combines electric guitar, piano, and upbeat drums to create a feel-good atmosphere.
Lyrically, the song expresses gratitude for small moments of joy and encourages listeners to appreciate life’s beauty.
This track is perfect for anyone looking to brighten up their day with an infectious smile.
9. “Don’t Stop Believin” by Journey
“Don’t Stop Believin” by Journey is an iconic rock anthem that has become a classic staple of pop culture.
The song speaks to the power of hope and the importance of never giving up.
Its uplifting chorus is one of the most recognizable in all of music, and the song has a timeless appeal that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
It is an anthem of resilience and perseverance, and it serves as a reminder that smiling and believing in yourself can help you overcome any obstacle.
10. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys is a timeless classic that encapsulates the spirit of the 1960s with its upbeat, feel-good sound.
The Beach Boys’ three-part harmonies add to the unique musical style of the song, creating a joyful and infectious atmosphere.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the beauty of life and the joy that comes with it, with the chorus emphasizing the importance of being present and experiencing good vibes.
This upbeat and optimistic song serves as an ode to the power of smiling and feeling good.
11. “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
Continuing with the theme of uplifting songs, Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day” is another classic selection.
A simple but uplifting melody is combined with lyrics that focus on how one’s outlook on life can be improved by simply smiling.
Withers’ iconic vocal performance conveys a positive message of hope and joy.
The song’s message of positivity and its simple yet effective instrumentation make it an effective choice for conveying a message of joy and smiles.
12. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Bob Marley & The Wailers’ “Three Little Birds” is a timeless classic that delivers an uplifting and encouraging message of hope.
Its light-hearted lyrics and infectious melody allow the song to remain a classic in the reggae genre.
The song’s main theme is smiling and having faith that everything will be alright.
Marley’s message encourages the listener to look at the brighter side of life and remain confident that things will improve.
The song’s message of comfort and positivity is timeless and has been embraced by generations of listeners.
13. “You Are My Sunshine” by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s rendition of the classic folk song “You Are My Sunshine” offers a comforting and heartfelt message of love and devotion.
The song’s lyrics speak of the narrator’s assurance of the presence of the one they love, even when they are not physically together.
The lyrics are uplifting and emphasize the importance of a smile in order to keep the one they love in mind.
Cash’s rendition of the song uses a slower tempo and is backed by an acoustic guitar, which further highlights the warm and comforting emotion of the lyrics.
His vocal performance is gentle and sincere, making it a perfect choice for expressing the joy of a smile.
14. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is a powerful and joyous anthem of determination and resilience.
On a surface level, the song is about the strength of a relationship, but it can also be interpreted more broadly as a metaphor for the strength of the human spirit.
The upbeat tempo and soulful vocals perfectly evoke the feeling of striving and overcoming whatever obstacles are in the way.
It is a timeless classic that continues to bring smiles to listeners of all ages.
15. “Smile” by Uncle Kracker
Continuing on the topic of upbeat songs about smiling, the 2009 single “Smile” by Uncle Kracker is an upbeat track with a country influence.
The song follows a traditional song structure with an introduction, verse, chorus, bridge, and outro.
Lyrically, the song centers around the narrator’s appreciation of the simple joys of life and the importance of smiling.
The song is an excellent source of positivity and appreciation for the small moments in life.
Best Songs About Smiling & Smiles – Final Thoughts
Smiling can be a powerful way of expressing emotion and joy.
It can also be a way to show support, boost morale, or simply brighten someone’s day.
Music can be a great way of conveying those same feelings, and the 15 songs listed here are some of the best examples of songs celebrating smiles and smiling.
From upbeat pop anthems to soulful ballads, each song offers a unique way to express joy and happiness.
Whether it’s a joyful sing-along or a moment of reflection, these songs are sure to bring a smile to your face.
You may also like: Songs about Smoking