Are you looking to expand your girl power playlist?
You’ve come to the right place!
We made a list of the 75 best women empowerment songs of all time.
All of these songs are powerful and impactful in their own way.
And they are still very important and much needed – perhaps now more than ever.
1. “Run The World (Girls)” by Beyonce
Is there a better way to start this list than with Queen Bey?
Beyonce is an idol and role model to many young girls.
And fortunately, she has many fierce songs about strong women.
And “Run The World (Girls)” is one of the best ones.
2. “Part Of Me” by Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s “Part Of Me” became one of the most popular inspirational songs for women.
Although it’s basically a breakup song, it also expresses the feelings of strength and independence.
You’re not gonna break my soul…
3. “Bitch” by Meredith Brooks
Without a doubt, Meredith Brooks’ “Bitch” is one of the best girl power songs.
It’s uplifting and at the same time angry – just like all good feminist songs.
4. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
Released in 1967, “Respect” became one of the most iconic female empowerment songs.
It’s an ode to women and feminism.
It’s R.E.S.P.E.C.T.
5. “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore
The message of Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me” is pretty clear.
It’s one of the older empowering women songs.
And it’s a classic.
6. “Not Ready To Make Nice” by The Chicks
This power ballad is also one of the beloved empowering songs for women.
And lyrically, “Not Ready To Make Nice” is about standing up against criticism.
7. “9 To 5” by Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s 1980 hit song “9 To 5” is dedicated to hard working women.
It’s considered one of the legendary women empowerment songs.
And it’s still relevant today.
8. “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter” is one of those powerful women songs that will help you get through tough times.
Makes me that much stronger
Makes me work a little bit harder
Makes me that much wiser
So thanks for making me a fighter…
9. “Stronger” by Britney Spears
Christina Aguilera will make you a fighter, and Britney Spears will make you stronger.
And considering everything she’s been through lately, Britney Spears really managed to finally find her peace and independence.
This song is a reminder that we never know what’s happening in someone’s life, even if it’s a public person.
10. “Confident” by Demi Lovato
This is a girl empowerment song about self-esteem and resilience.
Its melody, drums, and Demi’s energy will definitely make you feel motivated and pumped up for the day.
11. “Woman” by Kesha
Kesha released “Woman” on her third studio album “Rainbows” in 2017.
The song topped the Dance Club Songs charts and became one of the popular girl power songs.
12. “That’s Not My Name” by The Ting Tings
“That’s Not My Name” by The Ting Tings is such a great throwback.
It’s one of the catchy uplifting songs for women that doesn’t get old.
The performer Katie White said it’s actually a rant about her frustrations with the music industry; but it could be applicable to anything.
13. “Good As Hell” by Lizzo
I do my hair toss
Check my nails
Baby how you feelin’?
“Good As Hell” is a feel-good song that will immediately put you in a better mood.
But it’s also one of the newer girl empowerment songs.
14. “The Man” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift has many feminist songs, but “The Man” probably has the most straightforward message.
In the song, she challenges societal sexist double standards.
Taylor is definitely one of the best pop role models out there.
15. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” is a good reminder that you can do anything you put your mind to.
It’s about fighting for yourself and going through life with strength and determination.
It’s an ultimate girl power anthem.
16. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar
“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” is one of the 80s greatest hits.
It’s also one of the popular women empowerment songs.
So it definitely deserves a place in this list.
17. “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“Wannabe” by Spice Girls is a true girl power anthem.
And it’s incredible that this was actually the group’s debut single – they were iconic from the very start.
18. “This One’s For The Girls” by Martina McBride
Martina McBride’s 2003 hit is one of the women empowerment classics.
It’s upbeat and positive, and it will remind you of what’s important.
19. “No Scrubs” by TLC
TLC released “No Scrubs” in 1999.
And it was a life-changing event for many girls around the world.
And it’s still one of the R&B favorites.
20. “Just A Girl” by No Doubt
Another girl power song that will help you start the day in the right mood is “Just A Girl” by No Doubt.
‘Cause I’m just a girl, I’d rather not be
‘Cause they won’t let me drive late at night
Oh, I’m just a girl, guess I’m some kind of freak…
21. “So What” by P!nk
A song that is a natural follow-up to the previous song is “So What” by P!nk.
Sometimes all you need is to let go and dance it off.
Because so what – you’re a rockstar.
22. “Most Girls” by Hailee Steinfeld
Hailee Steinfeld has an important message: be like most girls.
Because most girls are strong, smart, and unstoppable.
And not two are the same.
23. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Sorry, but we’re back to Taylor Swift.
Her smash hit “Shake It Off” talks about ignoring bad comments and other people’s opinions.
You do you – and shake the haters off.
24. “Man I Feel Like A Woman” by Shania Twain
When it comes to songs about women empowerment, Shania Twain’s “Man I Feel Like A Woman” is a classic.
It’s an ode to femininity.
25. “This Woman’s Work” by Kate Bush
Kate Bush gained new popularity among younger generations after her song “Running Up That Hill” showed up in the “Stranger Things” show.
But the singer has many other songs to be appreciated for – and this empowering song is one of them.
26. “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette
This feminist playlist wouldn’t be complete without Alanis Morissette.
And her fantastic track “You Oughta Know” is a perfectly angry post-breakup song.
27. “I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross
Besides being a famous women empowerment song, Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” also became a LGBTQ anthem.
And in fact, the song’s producers and writers Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards got the idea for the song after going to a drag show.
So, it all makes sense!
28. “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga
Another song that celebrates the differences as well as the power of women is “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga.
It’s simply a song about freedom and being comfortable with who you truly are.
29. “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn
Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” is an ultimate party hit.
It’s all about being fulfilled, happy, and confident by yourself – at least when it comes to the atmosphere of the song.
30. “Tyrone” by Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu knows how to make smooth and soulful empowering songs.
She released “Tyrone” as the lead single in support of her album Live in 1997.
31. “God Is A Woman” by Ariana Grande
If you’re looking for newer pop strong woman songs, Ariana Grande’s got you covered.
The title of her song “God Is A Woman” explains it all.
32. “IDGAF” by Dua Lipa
Speaking of smashing pop hits and powerful women, we can’t skip Dua Lipa.
And her chart-topping “IDGAF” might be exactly what you need right now.
33. “You Are The Problem Here” by First Aid Kit
“You Are The Problem Here” is a punk song, which is a bit surprising for First Aid Kit.
But they created the song for the International Women’s Day in 2017, so it actually does make sense after all.
34. “Ain’t Your Mama” by Jennifer Lopez
The message of J Lo’s 2016 chart-topping hit is pretty straightforward.
Plus, the song is a reminder that it’s good (and necessary) to get mad about things that matter to you.
That’s the only way to change something.
35. “Bad Girls” by M.I.A.
M.I.A. is known for making music about social and political issues.
And although her song “Bad Girls” isn’t ‘just’ a women empowerment song, it undoubtedly fits this list.
36. “None Of Your Business” by Salt-N-Pepa
“None Of Your Business” was released in 1995, and it’s still relevant today.
Besides conveying a feminist message, the song is very catchy.
If you’re making a girl power playlist for your car, you can’t skip Salt-N-Pepa.
37. “Pretty Girl Rock” by Keri Hilson
Keri Hilson’s “Pretty Girl Rock” is one of the uplifting songs for women that doesn’t get old.
Do the pretty girl rock rock rock…
38. “Bo$$” by Fifth Harmony
“Bo$$” by Fifth Harmony will not only make you dance – it will also inspire you to ask for a raise.
It’s a catchy song about respect, confidence, and working your way towards your dreams.
39. “Lady Marmalade” by Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mya, P!nk
If you need a boost of confidence, just listen to “Lady Marmalade.”
The dose of these powerful musical icons will also help you get in a better mood.
It’s an explosion of femininity, power, and talent.
40. “You Gotta Be” by Des’ree
“You Gotta Be” is a hit that truly feels like a girl empowerment song.
But it’s also quite gentle and optimistic.
If you need something to cheer you up, listening to this song is always a good idea.
41. “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson
If you’re going through some rough times, remember that no feeling is final.
And some bad experiences ultimately make us more resilient.
Kelly Clarkson’s signature song “Stronger” is a good reminder of that, whether you like this song or not.
42. “Girl On Fire” by Alicia Keys
“Girl On Fire” is one of Alicia Keys’ best women empowerment songs.
It’s simple yet memorable and powerful, and the message could be: keep being passionate about your dreams.
43. “Independent Women Part 1” by Destiny’s Child
This song is an iconic girl power anthem.
It was released in 2001 and it got the Billboard Music Award for Soundtrack Single of the Year.
44. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
This song is everything: a popular karaoke song, a song about powerful women, a favorite party hit…
And since it was released in 1978, it’s definitely timeless.
45. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles
Released in 2013, “Brave” by Sara Bareilles is uplifting and inspiring.
If you need a confidence boost, this song will remind you that you can do anything and that you’re enough.
Because that’s the truth.
46. “Rise Up” by Andra Day
Sometimes you just need a little pick-me-up in the form of good music.
And perhaps Andra Day’s “Rise Up” is a motivating song you need.
All we need, all we need is hope…
47. “Ladies First” by Queen Latifah
Released in 1989, Queen Latifah’s “Ladies First” was one of the first feminist rap songs.
In essence, it’s a catchy old-school tune that celebrates womanhood.
48. “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett
And if you’re more fond of 80s rock classics, then this one’s for you.
Joan Jett’s “Bad Reputation” shows how it doesn’t matter what other people think.
Plus, in 2009, VH1 ranked it as the 29th best hard rock song of all time.
49. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cindy Lauper
“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is arguably one of the most popular girl anthems of all time.
And it still sounds danceable!
50. “Follow Your Arrow” by Kacey Musgraves
And if you’re looking for country songs about women empowerment, look no further.
In her lively track “Follow Your Arrow”, Kacey Musgraves sings about stereotypes and expectations women have to deal with.
51. “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan
“I’m Every Woman” is a timeless classic.
It’s also a cool girl power song as well as a perfect karaoke song for women.
Or you can simply turn the volume up and dance around in your living room.
52. “I’m Not The One” by Snarky Puppy and Malika Tirolien
Snarky Puppy is a four-time Grammy Award-winner.
And when he teamed up with the songwriter Malika Tirolien, the only result could be something amazing.
“I’m Not The One” is indeed a masterfully performed song that should be a part of your feminist playlist.
53. “Free Your Mind” by En Vogue
En Vogue’s “Free Your Mind” is one of the greatest hits of all time.
And it’s also a girl power anthem that made a huge impact on the 90s music scene.
54. “Rebel Girl” by Bikini Kill
And “Rebel Girl” is one of the feminist punk rock anthems.
The song also earned a spot on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
55. “I Am Woman” by Helen Reddy
Released in 1971, Helen Reddy’s “I Am Woman” is also considered one of the best songs about women’s rights.
Oh yes I am wise
But it’s wisdom born of pain…
56. “Q.U.E.E.N.” by Janelle Monae
If you’re looking for catchy empowering songs, this is your jam.
Plus, the song has great lyrics.
It’s a pure celebration of love, femininity, and diversity.
57. “Hot Topic” by Le Tigre
This 90s song by Le Tigre is a bit unusual but somehow very captivating and catchy.
Either way, one thing is for sure: women’s rights and gender equality should always be a hot topic.
58. “Salute” by Little Mix
Your ultimate girl power playlist isn’t complete without Little Mix.
Their songs are catchy, energetic, and to the point; and “Salute” is no different.
59. “Free” by Florence + The Machine
In essence, “Free” by Florence + The Machine is a song about anxiety.
But it’s incredibly uplifting and lively, and there’s something very feminine and liberating about it.
60. “Formation” by Beyonce
Okay, ladies, now let’s back in formation… because we’re going back to Beyonce.
“Formation” is arguably one of the most badass songs about women empowerment.
The song also talks about black experiences in America in 2016.
61. “Wonder Woman” by Lion Babe
The American duo Lion Babe released “Wonder Woman” in 2016.
The song title tells you that this could easily be described as a girl power song.
And it’s a catchy one too.
62. “Woman” by Little Simz and Cleo Sol
This smooth hip-hop song about women may very well be exactly what you’re looking for.
The lyrics are thoughtful, and the vibe is just right.
63. “Woman” by Neneh Cherry
Another song of the same name was released in 1996.
In fact, it seems like the previous song might have been inspired by Neneh Cherry’s music.
64. “Man’s World” by MARINA
Marina Diamandis is known for making pop hits with important messages.
And her song “Man’s World” is a critique of today’s society and gender inequality.
Mother Nature’s dying
Nobody’s keeping score
I don’t wanna live in a man’s world anymore…
65. “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor
In her chart-topping hit “All About That Bass”, Meghan Trainor is celebrating women of all shapes and sizes.
It’s a catchy tune that will immediately cheer you up.
66. “Doves In The Wind” by SZA and Kendrick Lamar
“Doves In The Wind” is a soulful, laid-back track released in 2017.
It’s SZA’s way of making a song about strong women.
It’s obvious what the song is about; and no, it’s not doves.
67. “Nasty” by Janet Jackson
This song was a big hit in the 80s.
And when Donald Trump called Hillary Clinton ‘a nasty woman’, the song got immense popularity on Spotify.
68. “The Pill” by Loretta Lynn
Although you probably associate country music with traditional American life, Loretta Lynn actually made a different statement.
In 1978, she released “The Pill”, a bold track related to women’s freedom to choose.
69. “Quiet” by MILCK
Although it’s a ballad, MILCK’s “Quiet” became an unofficial Women’s March anthem.
And since it’s so powerful, that comes as no surprise.
I can’t keep quiet
For anyone…
70. “Don’t Touch My Hair” by Solange
Many Solange’s songs honor the singer’s identity as a black woman.
And “Don’t Touch My Hair” was a unique and effective way of expressing her feminist views as well.
71. “Nameless, Faceless” by Courtney Barnett
Courtney Barnett is known for making authentic and sometimes quirky indie music.
And her “Nameless, Faceless” is a great song about women’s rights.
She also quotes Margaret Atwood:
I wanna walk through the park in the dark
Men are scared that
women will laugh at them…
72. “She Wolf” by Shakira
“She Wolf” is a simple and catchy radio hit, but it’s also a song about freedom and independence.
The wolf represents someone untamed and free.
73. “Hyperballad” by Bjork
Bjork is definitely one of the most interesting artists.
And her widely known song “Hyperballad” is focused on autonomy and independence in a relationship.
74. “Ain’t No Use” by Nina Simone
During her career, Nina Simone sang about many important topics.
And women’s power was always an essential part of her music.
“Ain’t No Use” is a good example; it’s an ode to her strength as a woman.
75. “You Lit My Fire” by Ane Brun
Although it’s not one of the most popular women empowerment songs, “You Lit My Fire” deserves a spot on this list.
It’s a powerful homage to all the women who changed our history.
Oh, this fight goes on
For the freedom that we can’t give up…
Women Empowerment Songs – Final Thoughts
All the songs we mentioned today are celebrating women.
They are either uplifting or emotional and empowering.
But they also remind us that the fight for women’s rights and freedom isn’t over.
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