The act of speaking up is a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment.
Through music, many artists have explored the concept of speaking up, offering anthems of hope and courage for those who lack the confidence to find their own voice.
This article will explore 15 of the best songs about speaking up, from Sara Bareilles’ “Brave” to Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”.
Each of these songs offers a unique perspective on the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs and values.
These songs are uplifting and inspiring, providing an emotional outlet for listeners to reflect on their own experiences.
This article seeks to identify and analyze these songs, ultimately providing an overview of the best songs about speaking up.
1. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles
The song “Brave” by Sara Bareilles is a powerful anthem for speaking up and standing up for oneself.
Its lyrics speak to the courage of self-expression, empowering listeners to live authentically and choose their own path.
The song’s driving rhythm and uplifting melody inspire hope and courage and motivates people to stand up for themselves and what they believe in.
It offers a powerful message of self-acceptance and encourages listeners to be themselves without fear or shame.
2. “Roar” by Katy Perry
Fuelled by her empowering lyrics, Katy Perry’s “Roar” has become an anthemic call to action for those seeking to reclaim their voice.
The song debuted at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2013 and has since become an anthem for anyone seeking to speak up against injustice.
With its catchy chorus and empowering message, the song encourages listeners to take a stand and make their voices heard.
The song also serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to speak up for themselves and to demand their rights.
“Roar” is an inspirational and timely anthem that should be heard around the world.
3. “Not Ready to Make Nice” by Dixie Chicks
Dixie Chicks’ 2006 song “Not Ready to Make Nice” is an iconic anthem of resistance and resilience.
It was written in response to the backlash the band faced for criticizing George W. Bush.
The lyrics express the group’s struggle to stay true to their beliefs despite the criticism they were receiving.
The song emphasizes the power of standing up for one’s beliefs and serves as a reminder to never give up in the face of adversity.
The song is a powerful statement of resilience and a reminder of the importance of speaking up.
4. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s 1988 hit “Man in the Mirror” is an inspirational ballad that encourages reflection and self-improvement.
Its lyrics call for the listener to take a look at themselves and to use the power of change to create a better world.
Jackson’s powerful message of speaking up and taking responsibility for one’s actions is perfectly encapsulated in the chorus: ‘I’m starting with the man in the mirror/I’m asking him to change his ways’.
This song is a call to action for people everywhere to stand up, speak out and make positive changes.
5. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
Rachel Platten’s 2015 hit “Fight Song” is a powerful anthem of determination, resilience, and hope.
The song encourages listeners to stand up and fight for what they believe in, urging them to never give up on their dreams.
The lyrics emphasize the importance of self-belief and inner strength, as well as the power of positive thinking.
The song’s catchy pop melody and upbeat production create an uplifting and motivating atmosphere.
Platten’s inspiring message of hope and strength is one that resonates with many people, helping to empower and encourage them to speak up and fight for what they believe in.
6. “Express Yourself” by Madonna
Released in 1989, Madonna’s “Express Yourself” is an anthem of self-confidence and empowerment.
It is a song about standing up for one’s beliefs and expressing oneself with integrity.
The song’s lyrics encourage people to be strong and independent and to take charge of their own lives.
It is a powerful anthem of female liberation, with a memorable chorus and an inspiring message.
It has become an iconic song of female empowerment, and its message is timeless.
7. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye’s 1971 track, “What’s Going On”, is widely considered to be one of the most important and influential hits of all time.
It features a socially conscious message of peace and love, and it was one of the first concept albums to be released by a major artist.
Gaye’s lyrics address issues of racism, poverty, environmentalism, and the Vietnam War.
His use of complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and politically-charged lyrics makes this a timeless classic that still speaks to audiences today.
8. “The Times They Are a-Changin'” by Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s 1964 song, “The Times They Are a-Changin”, is an iconic protest anthem that powerfully captures the zeitgeist of the era.
With its timeless lyrics and optimistic spirit, the song encourages listeners to stand up for what they believe in and take an active role in creating change.
Dylan’s melody is haunting and his vocal delivery is emotive, emphasizing the gravity of the message.
It is an enduring reminder that progress is possible if we take a stand.
9. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
Bob Dylan’s 1964 folk anthem, “The Times They Are a-Changin” was an important song during the civil rights movement.
Sam Cooke’s 1964 soulful masterpiece, “A Change Is Gonna Come” was another important song in the same movement.
The song speaks of the hope that change will come, even in the face of oppression, and has become an iconic anthem of the civil rights movement.
Cooke’s powerful lyrics are backed by his soulful singing and an orchestra, making it an important and enduring song of protest.
10. “Imagine” by John Lennon
John Lennon’s 1971 single “Imagine” is an iconic song that serves as a powerful anthem for peace and unity.
The lyrics urge listeners to envision a world without borders, religious strife, and materialism.
Lennon’s passionate vocal performance and the orchestral musical arrangement further emphasize the song’s powerful message.
The song’s theme of speaking up for a better world is timeless, inspiring millions to dream of a brighter future.
11. “Talk” by Khalid
Khalid‘s 2019 single “Talk” is an uplifting and energizing anthem that highlights the importance of communication and understanding.
Its lyrics are an encouragement to be vocal and stand up for one’s beliefs, fostering a sense of self-empowerment.
Its instrumentation combines acoustic guitar and minimalistic drums, creating a mellow and peaceful atmosphere.
The song is composed in a minor key, creating a sense of urgency and a call to action.
Its uplifting message is sure to inspire listeners to speak up for what they believe in and be heard.
12. “Unpretty” by TLC
Released in 1999, TLC’s “Unpretty” is an empowering song that encourages self-acceptance and body positivity.
Its lyrics speak to the experience of feeling inadequate due to societal standards of beauty.
With its simple yet impactful message, TLC encourages its audience to embrace their flaws and find strength in their own self-love.
The song’s success is due to its honest portrait of self-love, an empowering anthem for anyone who needs to speak up for themselves.
13. “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga
Following TLC’s song “Unpretty” which encourages people to accept themselves, Lady Gaga‘s “Born This Way” carries a similar message in terms of self-acceptance.
This anthem celebrates the idea that one should never feel ashamed of who they are and encourages people to stand up for themselves.
The song speaks of the unifying power of self-acceptance by encouraging people to embrace their uniqueness.
It also speaks of the importance of standing up for oneself, asserting that one should never be afraid to be their true self.
14. “Try” by Pink
Pink‘s song “Try” is a powerful anthem that implores listeners to embrace risk and to have faith in the power of change.
Released in 2012, it is a melodically upbeat song with an empowering message that encourages individuals to find the courage to take action, despite fear and doubt.
The chorus speaks of the courage to try, despite the possibility of failure, and how this courage can lead to growth and transformation.
The song is a positive and uplifting reminder that taking risks can lead to the best outcomes.
15. “Same Love” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft. Mary Lambert
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’ single “Same Love”, featuring Mary Lambert, is a socially conscious anthem that advocates for LGBTQ rights and equality.
It is an emotive song, with a strong message for acceptance and understanding.
The song is based on the experiences of Macklemore’s gay uncles, and Lambert’s struggles with her sexuality.
The chorus is an uplifting plea to end discrimination and promote love for all people.
Its message of inclusivity makes it an inspiring song that encourages people to speak up for what they believe in.
Best Songs About Speaking Up – Final Thoughts
It is clear that speaking up is a complex and important issue in today’s society.
While the songs discussed here certainly illustrate the power of speaking up, there are many more that offer their own unique insights.
It is essential to note that speaking up is not a one-size-fits-all approach and that there are many different ways to express oneself.
Ultimately, it is important to remember the strength that comes from speaking out and the importance of finding one’s own unique voice.
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