Everybody wants to become a boss. We all yearn for dominance in things that matter the most to us. Some view being a boss as bearing heavy burdens and making difficult choices. Others view it as being self-confident and earning the respect they deserve.
That’s why many artists have sung about having a boss attitude or have expressed what it takes to become one. Here’s our list of the best songs about being a boss.
“Like a Boss” by Lonely Island
Song year: 2009
The song encourages listeners to handle their daily tasks with confidence. The track’s lines describe humorous and ridiculous circumstances meant to make the listener laugh. The song touches on the common perception that becoming a boss isn’t hard, but as it goes on, it becomes clear that it’s more complicated than it appears.
“She’s The Boss” by Mick Jagger
Song year: 1985
The song is about a strong, independent woman who aims to make a difference. The narrator acknowledges her as a figure of authority. The singer talks about the confidence and determination it takes to be a successful businesswoman and wants everyone to know they have what it takes to become bosses.
With its empowering message, the song is perfect for when you need the motivation to complete any task and achieve your goals.
“Boss of Me” by David Bowie
Song year: 2013
The track perfectly exemplifies Bowie’s unique sound, combining pop, rock, and electronic elements. The lyrics emphasize the importance of self-sufficiency and taking charge of one’s life.
The song speaks to everybody who has ever felt a spark of love for another person. It’s a story about a man who’s in love and places a high value on his relationship. The guy goes as far as proclaiming that the girl from the little town is now his superior. Love can change a person in miraculous ways, including making them submit.
“Fighter” by Christina Aguilera
Song year: 2012
The recording company chose all the tracks in Aguilera’s debut album. She intended to write songs with deeper meanings when she began working on her second album. She did admit that she was experiencing a range of feelings before recording this album. Thus, she used it as a vent, releasing all her feelings into the song’s lyrics.
Some individuals feel stuck because they’re overpowered by their feelings and are unsure how to release them constructively. The song gives listeners the confidence they need to take on the world.
“Boss’ Life” by Snoop Dogg
Song year: 2007
The song details the glamorous life of being a boss and its many benefits. It’s a classic representation of the hustle and ambition it takes to be successful. The lyrics highlight the work ethic of an entrepreneur who is always working hard, is prominent, and has a lot of cash.
He’s making fun of individuals who are jealous of his status. He’s positive that he doesn’t have to worry about anything since the position is secure. The singer seeks to motivate listeners to keep pushing toward their goals.
“Executive” by Cicada
Song year: 2009
Cicada’s “Executive” is one of the best songs about bosses. The song celebrates the idea that anyone can become a boss and use their power to accomplish big things. It tells a story about a person who is overwhelmed by work-related stress.
The individual always does everything without voicing any complaints. However, he eventually gets fed up with everything and decides to leave. Though his colleagues are surprised, he’s happy with his decision to stop being a job prisoner and start living.
“Django Jane” by Janelle Monáe
Song year: 2018
The track is about a woman listing all the wonderful things life offers. The lady has put great effort into her work and achieved great success. The song also discusses self-sufficiency and how success rewards effort.
The singer encourages listeners to take charge of their lives and stand up for what they believe in. With its hard-hitting beat, inspiring message, and thought-provoking chorus, it’s undoubtedly one of the best songs about being a boss.
“Roar” by Katy Perry
Song year: 2013
“Roar” is a powerful song about being unapologetically yourself and embracing the power of being a boss. The song reminds people that they possess untapped potential. Everybody has internal boldness and abilities they’re yet to discover.
The song’s lyrics stress that you were born with a lion’s roar, and it shouldn’t go to waste. It inspires us to stand up for ourselves, let our voices be heard, take back our power, and fight for a better future.
“Boss D.J.” by Sublime
Song year: 1994
The song encourages the listener to pursue their goals while having a good time. The track’s lyrics present the DJ as the party’s boss. They’re in charge of setting the party’s mood and selecting playlists.
The main character thinks the DJ is doing a great job and persuades him to keep doing it since the people love it. The song also touches on not giving up and staying true to yourself, even if you’re up against seemingly unbeatable odds.
“Friday Night” by Loverboy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_7B8NzOHkU
Song year: 1985
The song’s lyrics center on a group of guys who want to have a good time on a Friday night. The narrator compares them and their boss, who’s an overachiever. Neither of them wishes to lead a boring life. They choose to have a good time regardless of the financial cost. Individuals should work for money and find time to spend on things that bring them joy.
“Confident” by DEMI LOVATO
Song year: 2015
The track’s lyrics talk about believing in yourself and being confident no matter what. The fact that the song saw Demi nominated for Grammy Awards and reached number twenty-one on the Billboard Hot 100 reinforces its message. It did help her in gaining self-confidence.
The song encourages listeners to stay true to themselves and never let anyone tell them they can’t be successful. It reminds listeners that they should keep pushing forward in life.
“Big Boss Man” by Jimmy Reed
Song year: 1961
The song is a tribute to the kind of boss everyone wants to have, one who treats their employees with respect and compassion. The lyrics emphasize the importance of the following things:
- Being a leader
- Doing the right thing for your employees
The singer seeks to encourage individuals to resist intimidation. If your bosses mistreat you, you have every right to demand better treatment.
“The Boss” by Diana Ross
Song year: 1979
The track stands out because of Diana’s stunning vocals, rendering it a worthwhile listen. The song is about coming to terms with who you are and discovering your actual value. There’s a widespread belief that people tend to let their guard down after falling in love. However, the singer encourages them to always remember who’s in charge.
“Like a Boss” by DJ Pon-3
Song year: 2014
The DJ-Pon-3 is My Little Pony series’ fictitious character. She’s a professional DJ going by the name Vinyl Scratch. The song lauds the benefit of seizing opportunities and adopting a “boss attitude” in one’s personal and professional life. Even though the show is entirely fictional, DJ Pon-3 handles herself like a boss whenever she appears.
The show is at her mercy, but you won’t contemplate challenging the authority after hearing the musical device. It’s an ideal anthem for anyone seeking to take responsibility for their life and claim ownership of their achievements.
“Big Boss Man” by Elvis Presley
Song year: 1967
A big part of what makes a great boss is defending those who cannot defend themselves. The lyrics paint a picture of a worker who feels taken for granted and has decided they can’t take it anymore. The singer talks about challenging his boss for mistreating him and his juniors. It’s a fast-paced song that carries a reassuring message and is great to dance along.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us” by Starship
Song year: 1987
The track tells a story of a man who gets to win the love of his life after a long wait. You may also interpret the song’s inspirational and upbeat lyrics to mean working hard to achieve one’s goals. The song conveys that nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.
It reminds listeners that they should stay focused and keep pushing forward despite the obstacles standing in the way. It’s a great song for when you’re feeling unmotivated since it’ll give you confidence and assurance that everything is achievable with enough determination.
“I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
Song year: 1989
The song has a simple yet powerful message that you’ll resonate with regardless of whether you’re in a position of authority. The lyrics talk about resisting any form of injustice and barriers.
The song reminds us that we shouldn’t give in or surrender when times get tough and to stay true to ourselves no matter what. The guitar-driven track inspires motivation and optimism in everyone, giving the impression that anything is possible.
“The Greatest” by Sia Feat. Kendrick Lamar
Song year: 2016
The track talks about people’s limitless potential and the ability to overcome hardships. It encourages listeners not to back down from adversity and stand strong regardless of what life throws.
Like most of Sia’s releases, the dope song was written to uplift and elevate listeners’ moods. Whether you’re a CEO, a small business owner, or someone who likes to take charge and get things done, this song will give you the confidence necessary to complete any task.
“Unstoppable” by The Score
Song year: 2017
The track captures the feeling of coming to terms with the fact that it’s time to conquer the world. Sometimes you have to fight other people and the demons within yourself. However, if you’ve faith in yourself, you may take control of the situation and utilize it as a springboard to reach even greater heights.
The song’s closing verses address naysayers and how their negative energy can serve as a source of inspiration for accomplishing one’s goals.
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
Song year: 2015
The song did dominate Hillary Clinton’s campaigns for the United States presidency. A common theme in the song’s lyrics is how seemingly minor shifts might have significant impacts. The song serves as a gentle reminder that you don’t need anybody else’s approval to affirm your status as a boss.
Platten sings about her inner strength but also cautions her fans that they’ll always have fears telling them they can’t succeed. Nevertheless, listening to someone who has been there and knows what you’re going through might be a powerful inspiration to get your life in order.
“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child
Song year: 2001
Beyonce wrote the song because she was furious about two members’ decision to leave Destiny’s Child just as the group began gaining prominence. The lyrics relate to everyone who has encountered resistance or had a partner abandon a project they had committed to complete together. The song’s main message is to push through difficulties and get where you want.
“Dog Days Are Over” by Florence and The Machine
Song year: 2009
The track employs the idiom “dog days” to convey a teen’s quest for independence. Dog days are when you feel unmotivated and at war with the world. The track’s opening line compares happiness to being struck by a train, which is ironic because that’s typically a terrifying experience.
However, as the song progresses, the lines begin turning unpleasant things into beautiful experiences, serving as a reminder that even awful situations may result in something wonderful. When children depend on their families, they must obey their elders and follow their rules. But after leaving home, they become their boss.
“Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons
Song year: 2017
The track utilizes a pulsating beat and deep lyrical content to encourage listeners to follow their passions. The singer uses vultures to represent the doubters and naysayers in our lives who work to crash aspirations.
Most of the lines touch on falling apart and regaining one’s glory. The song encourages individuals to resist giving up after being hurt or making a mistake.
“Mr. Know It All” by Kelly Clarkson
Song year: 1998
Leaving an abusive partner is among the best things you can do to reclaim your power. The song is a cautionary story about the dangers of staying with an emotionally or physically abusive partner.
The singer seeks to show listeners the surest path to personal development and growth. The song discusses individuals who quickly judge others without knowing their background or potential. A common reason why individuals don’t go for their goals is the belief that others can predict their failure.
“Boss” by 7 Seconds
Song year: 2009
The track is a representation of how the majority of workers feel about their bosses. Sometimes, bosses are overly harsh with their employees and don’t take the time to listen. The song aims to draw attention to this fact and urge superiors to become more empathetic toward their juniors.
“I’m Gonna Be Somebody” by Travis Tritt
Song year: 1990
The track gives the story of Bobby, a young boy who gets his start as a musician by performing in dangerous neighborhoods. Everybody warns him he has no chance of success and should seek a more secure job. But despite everything, Bobby continues to pursue his goals, and by the time the song is over, he is a well-known artist worldwide.
The song persuades listeners to follow their passions despite persistent criticism from people who believe they’re squandering their time.
“Cinderella Man” by Eminem
Song year: 2010
Eminem was once struggling with substance abuse. The track’s lyrics touch on the seriousness of substance abuse and how it ruins innocent lives and even causes death. However, the sky is the limit once we get past this obstacle. Whereas the track’s title is similar to that of Russell Crowe’s 2005 film, it’s not his story’s recount.
Eminem’s motivation for writing the song is to remind his audience that music may serve as a social change agent. The track is a slogan for individuals who’ve conquered mental health issues such as depression and are now ready to move on.
“The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World
Song year: 2001
Right from the song’s opening line, the band attempts to show listeners that their thoughts harbor all the negative energy. Whereas practicing patience isn’t easy, it’s necessary to wait when you don’t know where the road ahead is leading you.
The most important thing is that the road you’re on suits you the best. The song ends with an emphasis that all things will turn out fine.
Individuals tend to quit when confronted with challenges, missing out on opportunities. The song’s upbeat rhythm and optimistic lyrics inspire listeners to give their best in whatever they’re doing. If you persist through setbacks, you’ll eventually find success.
“Independent Women” by Destiny’s Child
Song year: 2000
Destiny’s Child is among the best musical representations of female empowerment. The ladies who make up the group are the real embodiment of the track’s message. They exhibit elegance, talent, mastery, and self-confidence in equal measure.
The song’s message is that women should be independent and strong enough to decide their lives and finances. The uplifting song is perfect for a ladies-only party celebrating female strength and independence.
Top Songs About Being A Boss, Final Thoughts
There’s something unique about being a boss. It comes with confidence, authority, and responsibility. And as you’ve seen, plenty of songs for boss mentality exist. You shouldn’t misuse your power if you are lucky enough to be a boss.
Rather be empathetic towards your juniors and adopt an attitude that encourages others to appreciate your authority. All the songs about bosses on this list will teach you the essence of taking charge and seizing opportunities.