Popular Motivational Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

GirlfriendAvril Lavigne92rank/position

Avril Lavigne – Girlfriend (Official Video)

When it comes to Western songs perfect for cheering on summer high school baseball, this famous track by Avril Lavigne is the one.

She was a driving force behind the 2000s girls’ rock boom.

It’s been used in commercials as well, so its recognition is outstanding.

You’ll definitely feel like shouting, “Hey, hey, you, you!”

StrongerBritney Spears93rank/position

Britney Spears – Stronger (Official HD Video)

This is an anthem of encouragement that sings of the strength to face life’s rough waters, set to a powerful beat and danceable melody.

Released in October 2000 by American songstress Britney Spears, the work earned high praise as an ambitious piece championing independence and forward momentum.

With themes of true strength and growth beyond sweet romance, its lyrics depicting a woman overcoming hardships resonate deeply.

Issued as the third single from the album “Oops!.

.

.

I Did It Again,” it reached No.

11 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It has continued to be loved across generations, including a cover in the TV drama “Glee” in 2010.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who has experienced setbacks or heartbreak and is ready to take a new step forward.

BeautifulChristina Aguilera94rank/position

Christina Aguilera – Beautiful (Official HD Video)

A song marked by a beautiful, soul-stirring melody.

Many listeners likely remember Christina Aguilera’s crystal-clear vocals lingering in their minds.

With lyrics centered on self-acceptance and inner beauty, it resonates with countless people and has garnered strong support especially from the LGBTQ community.

Released in October 2002, the track appears on the album “Stripped” and became a worldwide hit, earning high acclaim including a Grammy Award.

If you’re looking for the courage to believe in your own worth, give this song a listen—you’re sure to feel uplifted.

Symphony (feat. Zara Larsson)Clean Bandit95rank/position

Clean Bandit – Symphony (feat. Zara Larsson) [Official Video]

Clean Bandit is an electronic music group formed in Cambridge, UK, in 2008.

They are known for blending elements of classical and dance music and for collaborating with numerous guest vocalists.

Released in 2017, Symphony feat.

Zara Larsson is a moving track that portrays a longing for lost love and a desire to reconnect.

Larsson’s powerful vocals brilliantly convey emotions such as pain and vulnerability.

Through the metaphor of a “symphony,” the song symbolically depicts the complexity of relationships and the profound impact one can have on another’s life.

It achieved major commercial success in the UK and around the world, winning numerous awards.

Its universal themes and emotions have made it a popular entrance song for many athletes, including Chiba Lotte Marines player Kyota Fujiwara.

My HeroFoo Fighters96rank/position

Foo Fighters – My Hero (Official HD Video)

Featuring open, expansive guitar sounds and a rugged, masculine vocal, this is the Foo Fighters’ emotional track “My Hero.” The vocalist, Dave Grohl, was once the drummer for Nirvana, the band that brought grunge rock to the world.

Turns out he’s great at both singing and guitar.

This song is included on the album The Colour and the Shape.

Unforgettable feat. Swae LeeFrench Montana97rank/position

French Montana – Unforgettable ft. Swae Lee

French Montana, a Moroccan-American rapper.

One of the themes is a return to African roots; the music video was filmed in impoverished areas of Africa and features dance scenes with local children.

The track is characterized by an earthy, African-inspired vibe and an irresistible, danceable rhythm.

Set to an up-tempo beat, the lyrics convey a man’s passionate affection for a woman.

With its forward-driving momentum, it’s guaranteed to boost your energy!

Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande98rank/position

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

This is a track by hugely popular pop stars Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande teaming up.

Their powerful vocals sing about the strength to face adversity, giving you the courage to push through entrance exam studies.

Released in May 2020, it debuted at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It also won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 63rd Grammy Awards.

This song is an anthem that empowers listeners to overcome life’s trials—a must-listen for students preparing for exams whose motivation may waver.