Popular Motivational Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

CAN’T HOLD US FEAT. RAY DALTONMacklemore & Ryan Lewis71rank/position

MACKLEMORE & RYAN LEWIS – CAN’T HOLD US FEAT. RAY DALTON (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

This track grabs your heart with powerful vocals and an energetic beat.

Hailing from Seattle, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis boldly sing about their convictions, passion, and pride as independent artists.

It’s infused with their desire for creative freedom without relying on major labels and a deep love for their hometown, conveying a relentless will to push beyond limits.

The song reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 in 2013 and held the top spot for five consecutive weeks.

It was also featured in a UK Miller beer commercial and the trailer for the film “Jobs.” Perfect for boosting motivation before training or exercise, it’s a song that strongly propels anyone striving toward their dreams.

Man In The MirrorMichael Jackson72rank/position

Michael Jackson – Man In The Mirror (Official Video)

Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” is a signature track from his 1987 album Bad.

Centered on social awareness and personal introspection, it advocates the need to change the world through one’s own actions.

Written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett, the song incorporates gospel-style choral elements, resulting in a distinctive work.

It can be regarded as a classic that had a major impact on society, with an instrumental version performed at Jackson’s 2009 memorial service.

The track is also used as the walk-up song for Ryosuke Kikuchi of the Hiroshima Toyo Carp.

Batter UpNelly, St. Lunatics73rank/position

Nelly, St. Lunatics – Batter Up (Official Music Video)

There are many songs that use baseball as a theme, but when it comes to tracks that depict the batter, “Batter Up” stands out.

This piece was created by the hip-hop group St.

Lunatics in collaboration with Nelly.

It portrays a batter waiting for their turn in the lineup and then facing the pitcher.

The batter’s feelings are described in detail, so even those who’ve never stepped into the batter’s box can relate.

When you listen for the first time, pay attention to how the depicted game unfolds.

Wow.Post Malone74rank/position

Post Malone – “Wow.” (Official Music Video)

This is the song “Wow,” released in 2019 by Post Malone, a rapper who is especially popular among American teens.

Its dark vibe and edgy rap style get players hyped up.

Sports are a kind of battle, so it’s a perfect track not only for yourself but also for boosting your team’s morale.

Try EverythingShakira75rank/position

Shakira – Try Everything (Official Video)

It’s a song from the soundtrack of Disney’s animated film Zootopia, sung by Shakira.

The lyrics are filled with positive words and are especially recommended for students preparing for exams.

It’s guaranteed to give you the courage to never give up and see things through to the end.

Seven Nation ArmyThe White Stripes76rank/position

The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army (Official Music Video)

A signature track by The White Stripes, characterized by its powerful riff and minimal sound.

Released by the American rock duo in February 2003, the song is included on their fourth album, Elephant.

Its lyrics, depicting a strong resolve to stay true to one’s will despite external pressure and criticism, resonated with many listeners.

The track won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song and the MTV Video Music Award for Best Editing.

Embraced across the global sports scene, it is also widely used as a chant at international soccer tournaments.

With its simple yet clear chord progression and rhythmic pattern, it’s a highly recommended piece for those learning the basics of band performance.

Wild ThingX77rank/position

Wild Thing (Long Version)

The original song was released in 1965 by the New York band The Wild Ones.

The version covered by The Troggs became a hit in Japan under the title “Koi wa Wild Thing,” and the song has been covered and loved by many artists.

However, this X version gives a strong impression of hard rock.

In Japan, it’s also well known as the entrance theme used by professional wrestler Jon Moxley, famous for his electric-explosion matches.

It’s a track that exudes the power and confidence befitting an entrance theme.