Are you the boss? Or want some motivation to get your leadership skills ready for action?
Here are some top songs that can spike your thoughts on leadership and how you can motivate others to greatness.
“Brave” by Sara Bareilles
Song Year: 2012
Unleash your inner potential with this upbeat ballad by Sara Bareilles, with a catchy hook and joyful pop sound. While leaders are not perfect, they become exceptional for their bravery in crucial decisions.
The song motivates listeners to become their best versions by overcoming their fear of opening up and voicing their thoughts. So, if you ever question your capabilities, this jam is well-fitting.
“Unstoppable” by The Score
Song Year: 2017
If you are an ardent rock music fan, “Unstoppable” is an excellent fit. This indie rock track is about overcoming adversity and remaining optimistic amid difficulties.
The narrator reminds you regardless of what life throws, you can always find a way out if you stay determined. In addition, the powerful lyrics in the song are complemented by a throbbing tempo and grungy guitars and vocals.
“Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
Song Year: 1988
It is hard to ignore the contribution of the King of Pop when compiling the best songs about leadership. In this hit, Michael Jackson encourages you to know yourself, make peace with your shortcomings, then take action.
Continuous self-evaluation is essential in understanding the “Man in The Mirror,” which is an efficient approach to becoming a great leader.
“Fearless” by Jasmine Murray
Song Year: 2018
Confidence defines leaders, and they often appear so in public. However, most people tend to forget that leaders are ordinary people, and they face fear in their daily lives.
This song is a perfect consolation if you have fear concerns, offering a powerful declaration of the significance of conquering it. It is a song you want to listen to and know you can overcome any obstacles in life.
“I’m Gonna Be Somebody” by Travis Tritt
Song Year: 1990
Country music lovers will love jamming to this track by Travis Tritt, which expresses the importance of wanting to be a good leader. The song talks about a young artist who aspires to achieve fame despite his slim chances.
Whenever others try to discourage him, he becomes more zealous and confident that his dreams will come true. It is a reminder that your dreams of becoming a leader are valid as long as you are willing to put in the hard work.
“Confident” by Demi Lovato
Song Year: 2015
Demi Lovato’s “Confident” is an excellent fit if you seek to re-energize yourself when facing new challenges. This pop song talks about confidence in oneself and abilities, a crucial leadership trait.
Demi urges listeners to take pride in their skills and not allow people to pull them down. Moreover, the positive lyrics match the song’s energizing vibe and powerful vocals.
“Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself” by Jess Glynne
Song Year: 2015
Leaders often put too much pressure on themselves in pursuit of success. As a result, they are typically overly hard on themselves, which is an unhealthy tendency.
If you have too much on your shoulder, this is the song for you. The artist in this upbeat rune tells listeners that things don’t always end up as intended, and it doesn’t help to be hard on yourself. Instead, keep working and aim at improving.
“The Champion” by Carrie Underwood ft. Ludacris
Song Year: 2018
When pop meets rap, magic happens. Carrie Underwood teams up with Ludacris to deliver this inspiring hit, which became an instant fan-favorite.
While the song focuses on honoring athletes at the pinnacle of their sports, it also aims at resonating with listeners in their daily lives. The lyrics on this track define a champion as someone who doesn’t quit even under challenging tasks, an essential lesson in leadership.
“You Gotta Be” by Des’ree
Song Year: 1994
This timeless pop song is about living your life to the fullest and embracing the changes that come with it.
The uplifting lyrics on this track emphasize the importance of social flexibility, encouraging listeners to remain strong even in certain situations while keeping their cool in others. If you seek to foster agility as your coping mechanism, “You Gotta Be” is a great fit.
“Hey, Look Ma I Made It” by Panic! At the Disco
Song Year: 2018
Leadership is all about inspiring others to become better. This contagious pop song perfectly illustrates this aspect, illustrating how a leader can help others fulfill their full potential.
“Hey, look Ma I Made It” is about perseverance in the daunting journey of success, expressing how failures are as critical as success in shaping your character.
“I’m Not Afraid” by Eminem
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5-yKhDd64s
Song Year: 2010
Eminem is not your typical voice of reason, but in this single from his “Recovery,” he exhibits his role model version. The talented rapper employs his storytelling prowess in “I’m Not Afraid,” narrating his recovery from alcohol addiction and embracing his role as a father.
In the hook, Eminem encourages listeners to join him in overcoming challenges. Good leaders carry this message in aligning their followers to a common goal.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us” by Starship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wxyN3z9PL4
Song Year: 1987
While many artists have covered this classic ballad, the original version remains a favorite among rock music lovers. The song is about the impact of joining efforts to achieve common objectives.
As a leader, you should encourage your followers to share a vision and stick together regardless of the odds to achieve good results.
“Not All Heroes Wear Capes” by Owl City
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wxyN3z9PL4
Song Year: 2017
“Not All Heroes Wear Capes” is a tribute to Adam Young’s father, talking about their relationship and experiences. Adam talks about the many remarkable things his father did for him and sees him as a hero despite not having any accolades or public recognition.
The song agrees with the common cliché and is an essential lesson to draw as a leader. The track blends the lovely lyrics with guitar accompaniment, fitting a simple yet enlightening piece.
“Heal the World” by Michael Jackson
Song Year: 1991
This is arguably Michael Jackson’s most famous anthem globally, which stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody.
The song is about how we can lead a better life in the world by coming together. Michael Jackson acknowledges the suffering in the world but says we can improve the situation by acting boldly.
“Get Up Stand Up” by Bob Marley
Song Year: 1973
Bob Marley was inspired to write this iconic reggae anthem when he toured Haiti in 1973. The singer-songwriter was moved by the tremendous poverty and encouraged everyone to “Get Up Stand Up” for better leadership and equality.
Leadership is about rallying your followers to stand up against the status quo and make the change they desire.
“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys
Song Year: 2012
“Girl On Fire” by Alicia Keys is a global anthem thanks to its powerful vocals complemented by echoey martial percussions and subtle piano ballads.
Also, besides the unique artistic production, the song boasts inspiring and uplifting lyrics, oozing a solid sense of confidence. It is about new beginnings, discovering your inner power, and channeling it to encourage others.
“Tough” by Craig Morgan
Song Year: 2006
Typically, we overvalue the warrior leadership paradigm and thus wrongly ascribe such attributes to males more often. However, this beautiful song is a reminder that actual toughness, like leadership, may come from anyone.
In “Tough,” the hero is Craig’s wife, who handles the trials of their daily experience with ease. So, you should strive to recognize the overlooked leadership qualities in the people around you.
“Roar” by Katy Perry
Song Year: 2013
Striving for anything necessitates much concentration; occasionally, you need that additional motivational boost to keep going. This tune will provide you with the energy you need to keep going.
“Roar” is about conquering obstacles and bouncing back when circumstances knock you down. The lyrics inspire leaders never to quit and always give it their all.
“Never Give Up” by SIA
Song Year: 2016
As the title suggests, SIA’s powerful anthem inspires persistence, even in challenging situations. Despite being dogged by failure and suffering setbacks, the narrator recognizes that she possesses the capacity to succeed in the long run.
Leaders inspire people to persevere in the face of adversity. They also exhibit the behavior by expressing a desire to achieve regardless of the situation that befalls them.
“Keep On Pushing” by The Impressions
Song Year: 1964
This song is a great fit if you seek the calming effect of golden oldies. This classical masterpiece has survived the test of time for its powerful lyrics and captivating vintage sound. As the title suggests, the song encourages listeners to keep pushing toward their goals.
Moreover, “Keep On Pushing” highlights an effective leader’s commitment and confidence even when facing setbacks. This soulful song features beautiful vocal harmonies To complement the deep lyrics, keeping you enthralled.
“Go Big or Go Home” by American Authors
Song Year: 2015
American Authors’ famous anthem, “Go Big or Go Home,” is about taking chances and experiencing life to its fullest. In this upbeat rock piece, the narrator encourages listeners to give up self-control and devote all their energy to achieving a goal or forgo attempting the plan.
This all-or-nothing approach can be sentimental in helping a leader seize opportunities without the fear of failure.
“Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons
Song Year: 2017
This song nicely captures a leader’s commitment to supporting their followers to achieve their objectives. It depicts someone prepared to go to any length to attain their goals regardless of their difficulties.
“Whatever It Takes” is an excellent reminder that we hugely influence people around us and should use it to inspire them toward a common goal.
“You’ve Got To Stand for Something“ by Aaron Tippin
Song Year: 1991
A stance on essential subjects, particularly high-stakes and contentious ones, is often necessary. In this moving 90s country ballad, the narrator recalls his father’s solid leadership in sticking up for what he believed in.
The inspiring lyrics rally leaders to be bold and take a stand for their convictions, even if it involves confronting opposition.
“Stand” by Rascal Flatts
Song Year: 2006
Overcoming fears and moving on are inevitable aspects of life, and Rascal Flatts agrees with this take in his famous country jam, “Stand.” The uplifting track addresses the challenges we face in life and how we overcome them.
Leaders often face failures, but they always stand each time they fail. The band delivers these stirring lyrics with outstanding harmonic vocals and catchy guitar riffs.
“Staying Alive” by The Bee Gees
Song Year: 1977
Bee Gees is the last music you’d expect to draw leadership lessons from, considering their trademark feel-good club bangers. But, although Bee Gee didn’t intend to express leadership qualities in this award-winning tune, it is a well-fitting inspiring jam for any great leader.
Leadership is about going against the grain and challenging the status quo. So, as a leader, you ought to understand these challenging dynamics and remain alive.
“Doubt” by Mary J. Blige
Song Year: 2014
As the title suggests, “Doubt” is an anthem that addresses confidence issues. The narrator in this hit song talks about a person who faced discrimination, making her question her abilities, but she still rose above the challenges to become successful.
Also, this track majorly seems to address the unique issues women face when in leadership positions but still strive to achieve their goals.
“Superheroes” by The Script
Song Year: 2014
Leaders who usually motivate people around them to improve have probably gone through many hardships before becoming successful. “Superheroes” by The Script is a song that encourages listeners to face challenges positively.
It emphasizes that overcoming adversities allows you to discover your potential and become an effective leader who can bring the best out of his followers.
“Brave” by Nichole Nordeman
Song Year: 2005
Often, leaders go above and beyond what the rest of society expects of them in their pursuit of excellence. But, for a leader to beat all odds and succeed, they must be brave.
This song by Nichole Nordeman highlights the ability of a leader to push past the norms for the benefit of others. In the track, Nicole shows how she isn’t afraid of the confusion and pains of the journey to success.
“It’s on Again” by Alicia Keys feat. Kendrick Lamar
Song Year: 2014
If you’re a leader, people tend to isolate you due to your principles, and you may experience loneliness. Nevertheless, good leaders accept this situation as part of their responsibility and don’t have time for regrets.
For them, making a difference in other people’s lives matters most. “It’s on Again” by Alicia Keys feat. Kendrick Lamar depicts this situation.
“With My Own Two Hands” by Ben Harper
Song Year: 2003
Sometimes you may wonder what you’ve done to make the world a better place. Ben Harper’s “With Your Two Hands” got you covered if you have the will but may lack the motivation.
With an upbeat, reggae-infused tone, the song’s lyrics emphasize how one person’s decision to take action can bring significant changes in the world. The narrator in the piece talks about creating a better future with his hands.
“Dream On” by Aerosmith
Song Year: 1973
I bet you share the same desire to leave a mark on the world as everyone else. But, to do so, you must identify something you are passionate about and do it to perfection.
This 1973 classic rock power ballad by Aerosmith urges the listener to work hard and pursue their goals, especially since there is no guarantee of tomorrow.
“Get Along” by Kenny Chesney
Song Year: 2018
We all love enjoying life and social interactions, but you cannot rule out the possibility of conflicts. As a leader, you must unite all people and encourage them to work together.
This folky country song urges listeners to find a way to positively connect with others despite their differences and discover common ground. These stirring lyrics are accompanied by rhythmic acoustic guitar and banjos.
“Hero” by Mariah Carey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IA3ZvCkRkQ
Song Year: 1993
Being a leader is not an easy task. Sometimes you’ll face challenges, and you may feel like giving up. If you ever find yourself in such a situation, listening to “Hero” by Mariah Carey is well-recommended.
The song is a motivational ballad emphasizing the value of self-assurance and perseverance in facing difficulty. It reminds you to look within yourself and gather the strength to carry on.
Top Songs About Leadership, Final Thoughts
There you have it – the best songs that will influence your leadership style and make it more effective in attaining your desired outcomes.
Besides sprucing your career, good leadership goes a long way in enhancing your personal life and interactions with those around you.