Top Ten Positive Songs ~ Let’s start the conversation on Positive Music!
So if you looked at my old Facebook profile, some of these songs have been on my fave list for quite a while. Context gives meaning to this list of top ten positive songs, as I’m sure we will be building many different positive song lists with different criterion such as top ten positive friendship songs, top ten positive dance songs, top ten positive hits, top ten positive lyrics and the list will go on.
Part of the dialog of the Positive Imperative, in its simple form is …. “More of this” and “Less of that” with the conversation focus on the more of this. This of course applies to music as well.
It will take you another click to see my list of top ten positive songs. Curious? :>)
Positive Music Imperative
So, now that you have clicked I hope you will gain some new thoughts and perhaps a song or two that you may not be familiar with. The criterion used is a subjective balance between my favourites as well as songs with quintessential positive lyrics that have made an impact in the world but not necessarily the biggest impact ie: We Are The World by U.S.A. For Africa which would certainly be a valid submission but as I alluded to earlier that just might be another top ten positive music list.
Simply put these are ten of my favorite positive songs that have made the greatest impact on my life! If you listen to them a lot perhaps they will make a positive impact on your life. That’s one of the foundations of the Positive Music Imperative. Be aware, if you watch the videos as well which for true effect I suggest you do, at lease a few of them anyways, this blog read might take a while :>), but look at it this way, for me it’s a culmination of 30+ years of the study of popular music. So here we go….
#10 HOW YOU LIVE ~ POINT OF GRACE Music/Lyrics Cindy Morgan
“Turn Up The Music, Turn It Up Loud, Take A Few Chances, Let it All Out” was of course what caught my ear the first time I heard this song. The lasting chord with me was the many ways in which the song eloquently shared values of family and legacy as well as the notion that the “How” is sometimes more important than the “What”. The Positive Imperative journey is all about the “How” manifested in the what.
How You Live ~ Point Of Grace - Fans Fave Version
If you had asked me to create this list even two years ago, it wouldn’t have included all the same songs and this is one of them. A great ripple effect of the Positive Imperative and the Positive Music Imperative, is simply the conversation that takes place. In years to come all of our horizons will be broadened and our lives enriched simply because of the Positive Songs we have shared with each other. For me I get them from all sources but the two biggest have to be my Niece Nichol who first sent me How You Live, and daughter Lesley who have both really adopted this Positive Song phenomenon. Lesley only a couple of weeks ago added See The Light by Paradise to my fave work out music.
#9 MELISSA ETHRIDGE ~ I RUN FOR LIFE Music / Lyrics Melissa Ethridge
Victor Sinclair & Melissa Ethridge Centennial Hall ~ Launch Tour 1988
Another recent addition but no less loved. This track makes me instantly forget my woes in respect for those who have not only over come adversity but responded to it. Melissa delivers a passionate performance that stirs the soul and inspires us to accede. She has not only survived breast cancer but become a public spokesperson as well as singing people to action. This is truly a great example of the way in which music can inspire! WOW~.
I Run For Life ~ Melissa Ethridge ~ Our Hero !
#8 GREATEST LOVE OF ALL ~ WHITNEY HOUSTON M Michael Masser L. Linda Creed
Anyone who has been a parent or a teacher has undoubtedly come to love this song. For me, of all the inspiring songs about children, be it Teach Your Children, CSN & Y or Child Of Mine by Carole King, this one encapsulates best the symbiotic relationship of nurture and future. One’s takes place at the seed and when done well yields the other, a healthy tree!
Greatest Love Of All ~ Whitney Houston ~ Motivational Version
#7 GOOD MOTHER ~ JANN ARDEN Music/Lyrics Jann Arden
“Music Matters” is quite often my Twitter lead to share positive music lines that inspire and this is a great example. (See are you listening blog entry for more). Good Mother is a song that when I’m deep in thought about the lyrics will find more than a tear in my eye. “Feet on ground, heart in hand…” a great song of gratitude for the legacy and gifts our parents give us. Sometimes a great way to enjoy a song is simply one voice, one guitar. Check this version out.
#6 YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND ~ JAMES TAYLOR Music Carole King Lyrics Gerry Goffin
This song only inches ahead of all of its contemporaries like Lean On Me, Bridge Over Troubled Water and I’ll Be There as one of the reasons we all love music so much and a constant reminder on the importance of friendship and support. For me, years ago during my broadcasting days it was a first illumination to the way in which the masses embrace positive music. As part of JT’s Greatest Hits it is to the person one of our family’s fave albums and got the nudge ’cause now I’ve taught it to my Granddaughter Kaydence and we sing it together famously, Besides it helps teach her the seasons….. Winter Spring Summer or Fall all you got to do is call…. aha caught you singing ! Okay well continue singin’ cause this version is great. My Trebas Students will remember that this is the one I played in their class, to show them “who Carole King was” but more importantly, the power of music and the importance of legacy. Wow to write just one great song like this…. is to travel to the mountain top. The sheer emotion and the impact of this song will give you chills, the same way it did when I heard JT do it in Detroit. Another WOW~
You’ve Got A Friend ~ LIVE Carole King
#5 WHEN I’M UP I CAN’T GET DOWN/ORDINARY DAY ~ GREAT BIG SEA Music / Lyrics Great Big Sea
Okay, so I cheated and got 11 in, but since there’s no double sided singles any more I’ve made it my own as I seldom ever listen to one song without the other. (Oh for the younger generation a double sided single was a 45rpm record which had one song on either side..most b sides were throw-a-ways, but some 45’s like Something/Come Together by the Beatles were hits on both sides…. I digress happily as always). I celebrated New Years Eve 2005, by watching a few thousand people do the pogo stick dance to When I’m Up I Can’t Get Down, in Niagara Falls, and believe it or not many were sober and just loving the Positive Music. With the Law of Displacement, when you listen to these songs it’s almost impossible to be depressed or down as they are so uplifting. Ordinary Day and Positive Music is all about your State of Mind! 
When I’m Up I Can’t Get Down ~ Great Big Sea
#4 BELIEVE ~ SUSIE McNEIL Music/Lyrics Kara Dioguardi and Marti Frederiksen.
A work of art with some very powerful metaphors including the higher you climb, the farther you see”, but for me the chord hit with the line, “no one says it’s easy, and nobody says you have to be perfect, but as long as you try, you’ll find it was worth it”. So you too can move mountains with Dreams! Gee, nothing more to add, the lyrics say it all. A Gold Medal Of A Song !
Believe ~ Susie McNeil ~ Olympic Rendition
#3 UNWRITTEN, NATASHA BEDDINGFIELD. M/L Danielle Brisebois
One of the biggest challenges for most of us is to dwell on the past and especially on the negativity that may have taken place, (for some reason I believe we do so on a ten negative memories to one positive memory ratio) and then we give them all sorts of unneeded interpretations and meaning, making us dwell on them all the more. You’ll see a number of our blog writers like Sara Westbrook and Patrick Mathieu continually reminding us to live in the now and that it is a choice we make every minute so long as we are conscious of that fact. Unwritten is the perfect song to start writing and drawing your future by understanding it all starts now! 11 Million people like this version.
Unwritten ~ Esmee Denters & Special Guest :>)
#2 FLASHDANCE, IRENE CARA Music Giorgio Moroder Lyrics Keith Forsey-Irene Cara
Take Your Passion And Make It Happen, have been words that have sustained me to continue my quest to dedicate my life to make my world and those around me a better place in which to live, and yes especially in the darkest of places, like corrections and distress centres who serve the neediest in our society. It’s been the banner of Oprah and so many others. Do what you love and you will love what you do! I also love this video ’cause of records of course…. vinyl ROCKS …. and skips ~
Flashdance ~ Irene Cara ~ The Movie ~ the song was better !
#1 IMAGINE, JOHN LENNON - Music/Lyrics John Lennon
I don’t need to say much about this song, but I could also write a book on it. It’s a song that endured harsh criticism from many who first heard a fear and threat to their way of life, however for many more it provided a new paradigm of thinking. At one point the song represented a generation. As time has moved on and it’s been adopted by a new generation and new singers like David Archuleta. It represents the hopes, dreams and aspirations of millions in a world that still has conflict in the Middle East and other parts of the Globe. The conflicts still exist for the same reasons they did thousands of years ago.
John Lennon ~ Imagine ~ Lennon Montage ~ Soundrack of a Generation
Imagine of course also reflects our wish as well, and one of the reasons we have undertaken PI and PMI. Music is the universal language and will be one of the agents to bring us together to live as one, so I too hope you will join us.
#11 Honourable mention goes to I Believe In You, by Amanda Marshall. Like many songs that can move a person to tears, it represents a slue of songs that tell someone that you believe in them and that they make a difference.
THE CONVERSATION BEGINS
PIQ Positive Imperative Question. What are some of the most important songs that have motivated you and why? Please comment below and share your positive songs with us. In doing so you may impact someone else’s life positively as well as giving them a positive song idea to help keep them positively focused.
Thanks for reading and sharing. More positive song lists coming!
Victor Sinclair
PI Founder. Author of the forthcoming books; the Positive Imperative and the Positive Music Imperative, has a wide background in teaching, broadcasting, the music industry and business and most recently served as a founder and Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada). He has also dedicated more than 30 years of his life to volunteerism and not for profits including Big Brothers, Memorial Boys and Girls Clubs, Minor Leagues Sports and as a President and board member of several not-for-profit boards. Interests include family, biking, tennis, reading, music and PI/PMI of course.
Contact victor.sinclair(at)positivemusicimperative.com
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Dad, your “Positively” amazing!!
Love!
xo!
Listening to the songs that accompany this list I must have cried at least half a dozen times. And I definitely think that the number one choice is well deserving.
I was introduced to the concept of positive music oddly enough by my Uncle Victor. I always knew that certain songs were fun to listen to but never really thought about the message that was being delivered through them. Over the years my Uncle Vic has provided me with much of the positive music that i listen to and I have subsequently taken these songs and shared them with the people around me.
On top of those that have already been listed by Victor (which I think I have all of on my most played list) the following songs are ones that I could listen to over and over again and still get something new and inspiring from the lyrics.
Firstly,
I believe~Blessed Union of Souls
This song addresses racism, prejudice, war, hatred, violence, etc. and finds that the solution to all these problems is through love and understanding. I think that this line basically says it all “Open up your mind and then open up your heart, And you will see that you and me aren’t very far apart.” Love will find a way…
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=XsovXU9OxVw
Secondly,
Don’t give up~Alicia Keys and Bono
My second pick would be a song that I first heard on an episode of Oprah. It was originally performed by Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush in 1986. In this version Bono and Alicia Keys sing of the hardships that are being faced in Africa. They deliver the message that despite everything as long as we don’t loose hope then strength can remain and we continue moving forward.
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=PuscBfYnSrA
Thirdly,
Bif Naked~I Love Myself Today
My last pick is significantly edgier than the last two but I think that at times to truly express yourself you have to belt it out and let everyone know what you truly think. As Bif says, “I’m gonna be proud and loud and outta control!” She talks of overcoming yesterday and looking at the person in the mirror today and realizing her own worth.
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=zKjwRzutjx0
The thing about positive music is that it doesn’t matter what the song is about or who sings it, what matters is that the message is clear so that each person can take away a different part of it and relate it to their own lives. The songs that I have chosen speak to me in a number of different ways both on a personal note and a global one. I think that this is the mark of a truly inspiring song.
I can’t wait to listen to others that have the same affect.
Victor,
I agree with all of your picks here. Some of them I had never heard of before, but after listening to them, I can see the positive affects that they have on people.
To add a few more to the list
Welcome (To Where Ever You Are) by Bon Jovi
This song came to me one day when I was feeling rather down, wondering where my life was headed, and feeling quite lost at that point in my life. And it started to play on the radio…The words instantly captivated me, “Welcome to where ever you are, this is your life, you’ve made it this far,welcome, you’ve gotta believe, that right here right now, you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be, Welcome, to where ever you are…”
This Is The Time Of My Life by David Cook
The lyrics of this song speak about living in the moment, and being grateful for every moment that we have…”And I’ll taste every moment and live it out loud I know this is the time, This is the time To be more than a name Or a face in the crowd
I know this is the time This is the time of my life.
Where Is The Love by Black Eyed Peas
This is a great catchy tune, with a very powerful message behind it! The song talks about terror in other countries as well as our own, people battling wars of hunger and poverty, and wondering where is the love? A great song to help put life into perspective!
Affirmation by Savage Garden
This is a great song about one man’s beliefs, but beliefs that I believe ring true for many…”I believe you can’t control or choose your sexuality I believe that trust is more important than monogamy I believe your most attractive features are your heart and soul I believe that family is worth more than money or gold I believe the struggle for financial freedom is unfair
I believe the only ones who disagree are millionaires
I’m not sure if I am able to post all of the lyrics for one song on here, but I wish I could… the song is amazing!!
Love Is Free, by Sheryl Crowe
This is the first song that I ever heard that spoke of the power that love has, rather than money. “Oh Everybody, Devil takes your money, but money’s got no hold on me, oh oh coz everybody’s making love, cuz love is free”
If I think of any more I’ll let you know! And keep inspiring
until next time,
Live love and love life,
xoCatherine
Wow!
Some incredibly extensive lists here (but certainly not exhaustive!!!). I’ll be sure to come back and add a few new additions but for now I have just one (a song that I play on the same c.d. as your Blessed Union of the Souls - I Believe, Heather!).
John Hiatt - Have a Little Faith In me
Completely a feel good song that I find myself humming down the street or sweeping through my apartment to. This song, catchy as it is, reminds you that no matter what place you are in in your life (dark or otherwise) that when you feel like hope is hanging in the sidelines there are people in your life, partners, friends, family members or otherwise who are and always will be there to support you. Relying on them isn’t a sign of weakness but a sign of strenth in your relationship and your faith. It’s a song that tells you to keep on keeping on!!!
Years ago, when I first got an iPod, I created a playlist that I call my “Invincible Mix” (kids, ask your parents what a ‘mix tape’ was). For me, the playlists are even more important than individual songs, since I can use them to build an atmosphere, create a mood, tell a story and take myself on a journey. With a playlist, the order of the songs is important because of the different themes, beats and tempos.
This particular playlist pumps me up and leaves me feeling… well, invincible!
1. I’m Ready - by Muddy Waters
2. Boom Boom - by John Lee Hooker
3. Voodoo Chile - By Stevie Ray Vaughn
4. Can’t Turn You Loose (Not the original Otis Redding version, and not even the full song, but just a 30 second clip from the Blue Brother’s movie.) I just love the way this version builds energy and has a nice strong finish - a finish that leads immediately into…
5. Spybreak - by Propellerheads Pure energy! (Plus, listening to it makes me think I can dodge bullets!)
6. Oh Yeah - by Yellow
7. Alive - by Edwin
8. Today - by Smashing Pumpkins
9. Lovely Day - by Bill Withers
10. Beautiful Day - by U2
11. I Can See Clearly Now - by Holly Cole Trio
12. Memory Gospel - by Moby
13. I’m A Man - by The Spencer Davis Group
14. I Am The Man - By The Philosopher Kings
15. Hoochie Coochie Man - by Muddy Waters
16. I Got It Goin’ On - by Us3
(There is one “honorable mention”. “Muddy Waters - I Got My Mojo Working - by Muddy Waters is a fantastic song, but I haven’t managed to find the right spot for it on my playlist yet.)
YEAH! Now I can take on the world!!
-Patrick
Otis Redding’s version and Percy Sledge’s version of “A Change is Gonna Come” got me through severe mental illness episodes and suicide attempts. It literally kept me alive.
Also, Mariah Carey’s “Never Too Far Away” got me through; particularly this line: “… in the memories, I find solace…”
Another song that many might not call “positive” is by Jacksoul, “I Still Believe in Love”. The motivational line for me is “I still believe in love, just not with you, not with you..”lol. Hey, it helped me through a really difficult break up!
My favourite feel good song is Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing”. lol… Hey, to me, it’s very positive! It empowers me. So sue me or report me as a fiend! lol
The best has to be Helen Reddy’s “I am Woman Hear Me Roar”. Need I say more?? lol
They might be unconventional but they’ve motivated me in different ways to live. Literally.
I am LOVING all these music lists people, and adding many new ones to my lists. This is what the conversation is all about, and I’m thinking everyone’s IPOD/Computer is growing with songs daily. Some Great music folks.
I do want to especially acknowledge Denise for the courage to come forward and disclose mental illness/depression issues and even the ultimate conclusion for many under those circumstances of suicide. That decision is reached for a number of reasons that all lead to an imbalance of focus of negative thought, negative stories or interpretations of things that have happened to us and a lack of hope and positive support.
This is where Positive Music and songs like A Change Is Gonna Come and Never Too Far Away are worth their weight in gold. Music can touch the soul, give us hope and keep us alive. WOW! It’s such a simple concept yet so few people truly understand how much of an impact positive music can make in our lives and society as a whole when it’s consistently used and that too is an important part of our conversation. The very fact that we are having this conversation is opening up the possibility that not only will these songs save lives, but that our conversation to alert people that they will, also will save lives. Doesn’t this conversation now take on a more important context?
Even the nods to Jack Soul, and Marvin Gaye is a critical part of the dialouge and great choices as in context cathartic songs with Positive resolutions also are very important as they take on the role to move people from a negative place to a positive place.
And yes lightheartedness and humour also have found their way to this great list. I have fond memories of my mother belting out I Am Woman as a child, but only understood the significance of her love for that song years later with a picture that now sits with all my children of their grandmother in Kingston Ontario in a picture surrounded by 60 men nearly 30 years after she helped pioneer the role of women in law at times having to go to the five and dime store as their were no women’s washrooms in a law school don’t you know. This song too was a pioneer in women’s awareness issues that laid the seed for songs like Alicia Keys I Am Superwoman, Amy Sky’s Phenomenal Woman and many more…yes another positive song list :>)
So yes Denise I thank you so much for your unconventional list of positive songs as they truly made a huge positive impact on my life today, both through your candor and disclosure and because you have positively widened all of our horizons with a better understanding of the Power Of Positive Music!
Great site, Victor. Thank you for pointing me towards it. I believe that music is the language of the soul and the song in your heart and that it expresses who you really are.
There are several songs that Jim Johnston of Simple Joy has written over the last couple of years that reflect the journey that he has been on that I think many of us can relate to. Most of the songs on the new CD “Believe in a Better World” mirror the joy we feel in the music that we are creating. When I play with Jim on these songs or listen to them on the CD, I feel my heart swell with joy and love. Others may have a different experience of the music, but this is my experience.
I like many of the songs listed thus far, although some I have never heard of, but will make a point of finding them.
My list of songs that I find personally inspiring includes:
CD: Believe in Better World by Simple Joy
1. Simple Joy
2. Believe in a Better World
3. Free to Fly
4. Learning
5. Seems to Me
6. I’m so Lucky
A new song, not yet recorded:
7. Believe in Me
Other artists songs include:
7. I will Survive - Gloria Estafan
8. Don’t Rain on My Parade - Barbara Streisand
9. My Heart Will Go on - Celine Dion (from Titanic)
That’s all that comes to mind at the moment, but will check in and add some more later on.
Thanks again for providing this opportunity to examine how music touches our lives.
Wake Up Everybody - Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes
Although this song came out in 1975, ironically, more than 30 years later, the message is still appropriate. The hope that there will come a change in our way of thinking and how we teach our children, in order to minimize hatred, war and poverty. As the song says, “The only thing we have to do, is put it in our minds. Surely things will work out. They do it every time.”
It’s All About Love - Earth Wind & Fire
This song encourages me to remain connected to the peace within and enables me to share it with others.
“Paint a pretty smile each day, lovin’ is a blessing, yeah. Never let it fade away. It’s all about love.”
“Let the light shine all through your mind. Feel your little heart aglow.”
Black And White - Three Dog Night
“The ink is black, the page is white. Together we learn to read and write.”
This song is important to me because the message illustrates the “imperative” need for acceptance. It also, reinforces my wish, that all people were born blind, and would remain so, only through the impressionable years. Therefore, when they were granted sight, they would not have learned to judge others by their ethnicity or the colour of their skin.
Paradise - America
When I listen to this song, I feel at peace. I often turn to this song whenever there is chaos around me, and It has a calming effect on me. When I hear, for example, the lines in the song, “And though the sun may fade away, they say. There’s so much more, to fill a day.” It leaves me with a sense of hope; that there is ALWAYS something to look forward to. It’s a “feel good” song!
Reach Out And Touch (Somebody’s Hand) - Diana Ross
I find this song full of encouragement. To be forgiving and humble, rather than, to be judgemental or self absorbed. We’ve all, at some point in our lives, have, or will need, someone to lend an ear or a hand up. To me, It’s a friendship song.
I use Positive Music in both in my practice and in my personal life.
Positive Music is a part of Positive Psychology~
Songs to Elevate, Inspire and Increase Happiness!
Compiled by John Schinnerer, Ph.D.
Song Title ~ Artist/Band
Ali Tabatabaee/Krebitz/Riemann ~ Bandits [1999 Sire]
You Can’t Stop the Beat ~ Amanda Bynes, Elijah Kelly, John Travolta, Nikki Blonsky, Queen Latifah & Zac Efron
Hairspray (Soundtrack)
Never Gonna Break My Faith ~ Aretha Franklin & Mary J. Blige ~ Bobby (Soundtrack)
Hakuna Matata ~ Baha Men ~ Disneymania Children’s
With My Own Two Hands ~ Ben Harper
Diamonds On The Inside ~ Other
Where Is The Love ~ Black Eyed Peas
Three Little Birds ~ Bob Marley
One Love ~ Bob Marley
Get Up, Stand Up ~ Bob Marley
Don’t Worry, Be Happy ~ Bobby McFerrin
Darlin` Do Not Fear ~ Brett Dennen
So Much More ~ Blues
Jump Jive An’ Wail ~ Brian Setzer Orchestra
Rock This Town ~ Brian Setzer Orchestra or Stray Cats
Celebration ~ Kool & The Gang
Love Can Move Mountains ~ Celine Dion
What a Beautiful Day ~ Chris Cagle
Tubthumping ~ Chumbawamba
Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now ~ McFadden & Whitehead
Bubbly ~ Colbie Caillat
Better Now ~ Collective Soul
Push It to the Limit ~ Corbin Bleu
Accidentally In Love ~ Counting Crows - Shrek II
Dreams ~ Cranberries
Walk With You ~ Della Reese & The Verity All-Stars ~ Touched By An Angel
You’ll Be Blessed ~ Elton John
I’m Still Standing ~ Elton John
(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding ~
Elvis Costello & the Attractions
Somewhere Over The Rainbow ~ Iz Kamakawiwo’ole
Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes ~ Paul Simon
Time of Your Life ~ Green Day
Happy Girl ~ Martina McBride
Man Smart (Woman Smarter) ~ Harry Belafonte
I’m Into Something Good ~ Herman’s Hermits
Every 1’s a Winner ~ Hot Chocolate
Willie Nelson
Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground lyrics
If you had not have fallen
Then I would not have found you
Angel flying too close to the ground
And I patched up your broken wing
And hung around a while
Tried to keep your spirits up
While you were feelin’ down
I knew someday that you would fly away
For love’s the greatest healer to be found
So leave me if you need to
I will still remember
Angel flying too close to the ground
Fly on, fly on past the speed of sound
I’d rather see you up
Than see you down
Leave me if you need to
I will still remember
Angel flying too close to the ground
Skybird by Neil Diamond from Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Written by: Neil Diamond
Skybird
make your soul
and every heart will know
of the tale
Skybird
make your tune
for none may sing it
just as you do
Look at the way I glide
caught on the wind’s laxy tide
sweetly how it sings
rally each heart at the sight
of your silver wings
Skybird, skybird
Nightbird
find your way
for none may know it
just as you may
Be by Neil Diamond - Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Lost
On a painted sky
Where the clouds are hung
For the poet’s eye
You may find him
If you may find him
There
On a distant shore
By the wings of dreams
Through an open door
You may know him
If you may
Be
As a page that aches for a word
Which speaks on a theme that is timeless
While the sun
God will make for your day
Sing
As a song in search of a voice that is silent
And the one
God will make for your way
Vic,
Thank you for your dedication, hard work and dreams which have made your labour of love a reality. Congratulations! Music conveys so much of the soul, so much of our hearts. God Bless you for doing this.
All the best,
Love and hugs,
Vicki
I agree with Vicki’s statement “Music conveys so much of the soul, so much of our hearts”. In sharing our lists, if each song is considered a chapter in a book then we are in essence sharing a part of our life, our experiences. In reviewing the list of songs submitted a person can kind of get a glimpse of another person’s experiences. Now to be here and submitting our lists we must have something in common. Thank you Vic for providing a place for this group of like minded people to share their ‘experiences’ through music. In saying that, here is my contribution:
Higher - Creed
Believe - Suzie McNeil
There Will Never Be Another Tonight - Bryan Adams
Summer of ‘69 - Bryan Adams
California - Wave
Crash and Burn - Savage Garden
Taking Chances - Celine Dion
Beautiful Day - U2
Everything - Life House
Beautiful Life - Ace of Base
Heaven On Earth - Belinda Carlisle
You’re the Inspiration - Chicago
Eye of the Tiger - Survivor
Ryan
“We can’t control the cards we are dealt, only how we play our hand.”
Victor, I love your “hope” songs. Brilliant. One of my favourite hope songs is ‘power of the dream’ by Celine Dion for the Olympics. All about going after the dream, the hope and strength come through it with a thunderous roar by the end. Just an incredible song.
From your list, IMAGINE takes the lead with “From a distance” in a close 2nd!
Cindy Ashton
http://www.cindyaston.com
Fantastic post!!! Cheers!
Success! Success! Success! My positive vibes are flowing toward you!
Love and hugs,
Vicki
Hi Victor - found this site through your facebook profile. I think this site is great. Music touches all of us in ways that sometimes we can’t put into words.
I drafted up a list of my Top 10 Positive Songs. Some may not seem so positive at a first glace, but its the underlying message of hope that makes them so profound for me. If you haven’t heard of the artists, please check them out!
In no particular order:
Viva la Vida - Coldplay
Quintessence - Jason Hakin (www.myspace.com/jasonhakin)
Hold On - KT Tunstall
On The Radio - Regina Spektor (amazing lesson in love!)
Whatever it Takes - Ron Sexsmith (another lesson in love)
Til Kingdom Come - Coldplay
Don’t Dream its Over - Sixpence None the Richer
Sing - Travis
Hey Jude - The Beatles
All in Good Time - Ron Sexsmith
Enjoy!
Christina
I think Sinatra had some goodies too..I love”I Did It My Way”..
Wow what a great web site. So many intelligent and hi EQ content.
As for Positive Music, yet another powerful observation, getting missed by most of the world. If we care about the food we put into our bodies and the words and prgramming into our minds….. why wouldn’t we want to pay attention to the music which goes into both our minds and soul. Add to that the powerful effect it has in our sub consious too. I also like the idea of coming out and saying, that in a particular context music can be neutral too, which if I understand the Positive Imperative Concept would also be a negative.
So having said that… positive music has saved me and got me out of depression many times when all else couldn’t.
These Songs in particular.
Flashdance and Fame by Irene Cara and more recently Fly So High… have been on my workout mix and played a thousands times…. they jump start both my heart and my mind…..kinda like a constant reminder…… take your passion and make it happen….. lyrics are perfect.
Other faves…. In My Life - Beatles, Born In the USA and Glory Day by Bruce Springsteen and then there’s Blowin’ In The Wind… take your pick Bob Dylan or Steive Wonder…
I love a lot of the songs listed in this post and have and will be downloading the ones I don’t know from Itunes….
Great job PI people…. you’re changing lives!
Positive Music is SO imortant in today’s world. We need a lot more of it ! ! !
Idena Menzel ~ A Hero Comes Home …inspiring…
My Hero Is You ~ Hayden Panettiere …. thanks 4 being there Sarah…… in my darkest hour when my mon died she sent this to me and lifted my spirits……
There’s Hope ~ India Arie…… As a Landmark grad… I love the line…It’s all about your perceptions…. so many truths in this world….. get your ego out of the way and let your heart in! I could list lots of Inida Arie songs… she is SOOOOO POSITIVE !
Let’s Get Loud - Jenifer Lopez
and Please Don’t Stop The Music Rihanna 2 songs for my peeps ! ! ! many a blast at 4AM after exam crams.
I could go on and on…. but I gotta budget some time to check out all those songs….. in those incredible lists above….. kudos to Victor Sinclair for his top 10 list…. wow….. perfect top ten……. what a great site! I’ll be back often
last song 4 now…. on my list….
I Will Take Care of You - Amy Sky…. 4 MY MOM ….RIP
It was the music version of Robert Munchs book Love You For Ever….. my mom and my best book….. and we played that song as I grew up and it made her cry ’cause we had to take care of gram before she passed away…. I never thought that Cancer would hit my mom and so fast….
we played the song in the hospital every night and again when she passed away…. thanks Amy Sky…. you and your music is a gift to all of us ! ! !
Luv U 4 Ever Mom ! …
Amy
Ottawa ON
Hey Victor!
I was really excited reading these messages and everyone sharing songs that are meaningful to them or just make them feel good in general!
Music has such an inspiring way about it, as we listen to it to express how we feel, or even just to hear someone else’s emotions and relate to them. All in all, at the end of that special song you always feel a little bit lighter, even if you cried throughout it or smiled. It releases something inside us letting us know everything is alright.
Here are some songs that really make me smile (and sing at the top of my lungs too
hahaha)
1.) Journey - Don’t stop believing
2.) Frou Four - Let Go
3.) Cat Stevens - Peace Train
4.) Bob Marley - One Love
5.) Jenn Grant - Dreamer
6.) Oasis - Wonderwall
7.) Goo Goo Dolls - Slide
8.) Beautiful Life - Ace of Base
9.) Damian Marley - We’re Going to make it
Great list of songs. Most of them I love… and lots of new ones to check out…..
I know it’s been mentioned… but I’m throwing my vote in on Imagine ~ by John Lennon as a great number 1 pick. Only other possible choice “One Love” by Bob Marley
Here’s my share…….
First Holly - you stole mine….Damian Marley We’re Going To Make It ok… you just shared it first but only by one blog….lol
Beautiful Day - U2
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
You Gotta Be Des’ree
Survivor - Destiny’s Child
Feeling Good - Nina Simone
With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
Shower the People - James Taylor - Our family’s fave!
and my personal fave…
What’s Going On - the Late the great MARVIN GAYE !
“You see, war is not the answer
For only love can conquer hate
You know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some lovin’ here today”
Keep the positive songs coming…they make the world a better place to be ! ! !
Hey Vic!
Love these lists!!!! Great website!!!! Here are 10 more positive songs!
DON’T WORRY BABY – The Beach Boys
“Well it’s been building up inside of me
For oh I don’t know how long
I don’t know why
But I keep thinking
Something’s bound to go wrong
But she looks in my eyes
And makes me realize
And she says don’t worry baby
Don’t worry baby
Don’t worry baby
Everything will turn out alright”
MAKIN’ IT – David Naughton
“I’m solid gold
I’ve got the goods
They stand when I walk
Through the neighbourhoods
I’m makin’ it
I’ve got the chance, I’m takin’ it
No more, no more, Fakin’ it
This time in life, I’m makin’ it”
NO ONE – Alicia Keys
“You and me together
Through the days and nights
I don’t worry ‘cuz
Everything’s going to be alright
People keep talking they can say what they like
But all I know is everything’s
going to be alright
No one, no one, no one
Can get in the way of what I’m feeling
No one, no one, no one
Can get in the way of what I
feel for you, you, you
Can get in the way of what I feel for you”
GIRL – Davy Jones
“I’m telling you girl, something unknown to me,
Makes you what you are,
and what you are is all I could ask for me,
and its good to feel that way girl.
Thank you girl, for making the morning brighter
girl for making the night time nicer
girl for making a better world for me.”
TOO MUCH TIME – Captain Beefheart
“In my life I’ve got a deep devotion
Wide as the sky and deep as the ocean
Every war that’s waged makes me cry
Every bird that goes by gets me high
I got too much time, too much time
I got too much time to be without love”
Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles
“Little darling, it’s been a long cold lonely winter
Little darling, it feels like years since it’s been here
Here comes the sun, here comes the sun
and I say it’s all right”
TAKE A CHANCE ON ME – ABBA
“If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try”
AMAZING – Aerosmith
“It’s Amazing
With the blink of an eye you finally see the light
It’s Amazing
When the moment arrives, you know you’ll be alright”
DON’T DREAM, IT’S OVER – Crowded House
“Hey now, hey now
Don’t dream
It’s over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they won’t win”
STRONGER – Christina Aguilera
“After all of the stealing and cheating
You probably think that I hold resentment for you
But, uh uh, oh no, you’re wrong
‘Cause if it wasn’t for all that you tried to do
I wouldn’t know just how capable I am to pull through
So I wanna say thank you
‘Cause it makes me that much stronger
Makes me work a little bit harder
It makes me that much wiser
So thanks for making me a fighter
Made me learn a little bit faster
Made my skin a little bit thicker
Makes me that much smarter
So thanks for making me a fighter”
OMG….. What a fantastic list of songs. First of all, having been a fan of Positive Music for a while, I do have to say these posts have got some of the all time best songs of any of the lists I’ve checked out and two of Victor’s top ten are now in my top ten.
I never heard I Run For Life by Melissa Ethridge before and when I did…. the tears started to flow… I lost both my Aunt Jean and Grandma Betty to cancer and this song is SO POWERFUL I’ve used it in both yesterday and today’s workout and went over the top. Point of Grace and How You Live / Turn Up The Music is now in my top ten too… a classic song on positivity and values with such great lyrics and such a great message….. how can you not be in a complete state of gratitude and positivity when you’re listening to it…… well, I think I’ve cranked it forty or fifty times since Friday night and it’s on my wakeup folder on my Ipod too. Thank you for your post Victor….. a true gift in more ways than you’ll ever know. So here’s my payback… but in a good way… that’s what the positive imperative is all about right…. more of this….. and more of these songs more of the time will be just as important to get the world into positivity…..
So… for this post…. here’s my Positive work out songs …. I’ll be back with more later…..
On my Ipod I have starting it off….
Get On Your Feet, by Gloria Estafan… another great comeback story as she broke her back and came back.
Don’t Stop - Fleetwood Mac - Great Lyrics for the end of your work out….. lol
A Beautiful Day - Ace of Base put it on and you’re up!
Beautiful Day - U2 - More of the same.
Sheryl Crow - Soak Up The Sun - Great spin class song
Speed Of Sound - Coldplay
Better Days - Googoo Dolls
Move Along - All American Rejects
Life Is A Highway - Rascal Flats
Greenday - Tine Of Your Life
Bon Jovi - It’s My Life……
and of course…. Flashdance by Irene Cara…another one on Victor’s top ten.
Oh and I’ll second Imagine as the number 1… it can’t be touched…… :>
More songs soon… but I think I still have about 25 from this post to check out first………
Shannon Campbell
Chicago Il
POSISONG LIST….and more to come!
1. Say What You Need to Say - John Mayer
2. As - Stevie Wonder
3. ‘Cause We Live for Love - Miriam Makeba
4. Walk On - U2
5. I Believe - Amanda Marshall
6. Waiting for the World to Change - John Mayer
7. Change the World - Eric Clapton
8. I Surrender - Gospel
9. All the Woman - Tina Turner
10. Lovely Day - Bill Withe
11. Lean on Me - Bill Withers
12. Reach - Gloria Estefa
13. Coming Out of the Dark - Gloria Estefan
14. True Colours - Cyndi Lauper/Phil Collins
15. Daughters, Waiting on the World to Change - John Mayer
16. You Raise Me Up - Josh Groban
17. You are Loved (Don’t Give Up) - Josh Groban
18. I Knew You Were Waiting for Me - George Micheal/Aretha Franklin -
I agree!! The power of song (i.e., music and lyrics) is often highly underestimated.
Here are a few of my favorites to add to the list.
“Counting My Blessings”
By Irving Berlin
“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep,
I count my blessings instead of sheep
and then I fall asleep counting my blessings.
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
then I go to sleep counting my blessings.”
or…
“Forever Young”
By Rod Stewart
“May the good lord be with you
Down every road you roam
And may sunshine and happiness
Surround you when you’re far from home
And may you grow to be proud
Dignified and true
And do unto others
As you’d have done to you
Be courageous and be brave
And in my heart you’ll always stay
Forever young, forever young
Forever young, forever young
May good fortune be with you
May your guiding light be strong
Build a stairway to heaven
With a prince or a vagabond
And may you never love in vain
And in my heart you will remain
Forever young, forever young…
And when you finally fly away
I’ll be hoping that I served you well
For all the wisdom of a lifetime
No one can ever tell
But whatever road you choose
I’m right behind you, win or lose
Forever young, forever young…”
Or…
“The Sunny Side of the Street”
(first made famous by Louis Armstrong)
“Grab your coat and get your hat, leave your worry at the doorstep
Just direct your feet to the sunny side of the street
Can’t you hear that pitter pat and that happy tune is your step
Life can be so sweet on the sunny side of the street
I used to walk in the shade with those blues on parade
But I’m not afraid ’cause this rover, crossed over
If I never had a cent I’ll be as rich as Rockfeller
Gold dust at my feet on the sunny side of the street
With those blues on parade
Because this rover, it crossed over
If I never had a cent I’ll be as loaded as old Rockfeller
With that gold dust ’round my feet
On the sunny side of the street
On the side, at that side of the street that is sunny”
Great topic! Thanks for starting the conversation.
Warmly,
Tracey
Sing a Song
by the Carpenters
My favorite positive song is
I hope you dance
Lee Ann Womak
Hello Vic!
You know another AMAZING song you can add to your list?? If I’m having a not-so-good day, I blast this song until I feel AHHHHH, lol. Anyone who listens to it will know what I mean.
Stand - Rascal Flatts
I am loving all of these lists and suggestions……and lyrics…….. I’m only half way through the songs I’m adding to check out… and the funny thing is, I was half way though the list a couple of months ago… and the list is staying a head of me… which I think is great.
Such a great variety too. Songs from musicals, oldies, 70s 80s & 90s. current R&B, Rock, Jazz and Country. They cover the whole gambit, definitely enough to make a study of positive music… which I think I’ve been doing lol. !
Love the lyric inputs too, I always love to read the lyrics of songs I know. They seem to have another dimension in the written word.
Most importantly I also love the stories and connections that all of you are sharing as well as the extrodinary impact positive music has had on many of you.
Whether you know it or not your sharing has given many people many gifts and you have taken favourites from yourselves, your mothers/grandmothers best friends and more and in a very real sence Payed It Forward. I know for a fact from many conversations I’ve been having that many people are going through the lists and checking them out and adding them to their ipods and faves.
Each time they have done that you have directly added to the quality and positivity of their lives and that’s pretty cool!
THANK YOU ~ and Keep the lists coming…. ’cause it’s got a life of it’’s own as Positive People will be adding new positive songs for years to come.
Oh… I almost forgot… my turn to post again… :>)
Ten faves on Friendhip (of course there’s more but I don’t want to use them all up yet?… as if we could. :>)
A DOZEN FRIENDSHIP SONGS ! (did I say 10?)
Thanks You For Being A Friend - Andrew Gold
Lean On Me - Bill Withers/Club Nouveau
That’s What Friends Are For -Dionne Warwick-Elton John Stevie Wonder
With A Little Help From My Friends Beatles/Joe Cocker
I’ll Be There - Jackson 5 - Mariah Carey
Where You Lead - Carole King
Friends Are Friends Forever - Michael W. Smith
Forever You & Me - Lighthouse Family
Circle Of Friends - Point Of Grace
Just The Two Of Us - Bill Withers / Will Smith
Keep Holding On - Avril Lavine
and….
You’ve Got A Friend - Carole King / James Taylor
both great versions… but have you heard them sing it together?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BH_7uL-2jQ
http://bit.ly/18BoF6
Be sure to add your favourite friendship song?
Here are a few “friendship” songs which come to mind. I find myself, often dedicating such songs to friends in need or to those who have been there for me in difficult times. Although I make a sincere effort to show my appreciation for their help, I find it more meaningful to sing a heartfelt song to them, than to simply say “thank you” Positive music moves people in a way, nothing else can. Next to God, music has always been my “lifeline.”
You’re In My Heart-Rod Stewart
You’re My Best Friend-Queen
Best Thing That Ever Happened-Gladys Knight
You Make Me Feel Brand New-Stylistics
Reach Out (And I’ll Be There)-Four Tops
You And Me Against The World-Helen Ready
You Light Up My Life-Debbie Boone
Close Your Eyes-Edward Bear
Thank You For Loving Me-Bon Jovi
Anytime You Need A Friend-Mariah Carey
You Needed Me-Ann Murray
and last, but not least, I agree with Vic…….
Lean On Me-Bill Withers
It is with the greatest of sadness and also joy I share my list of some of my fave Michael Jackson Positive songs….
I’ll Be There - Jackson 5 (One of the greated friendship songs ever).
Earth Song - He cared for the environment.
Man In The Mirror - A great song about human integrity
Black & White. using the state of the art technology really showed us it doesn’t matter what the colour of your skin is…we are all one.
Lost Children, You Are Not Alone, Will You Be there….
and so many more……
Heal The World…. if Michael were granted one wish.
and most of all…..
We Are The World - USA For Africa. (Co-writen with Lionel Richie) 100 MIL. raisied and the largest assembly of music superstars in the history of pop music.
Michael Jackson RIP The King Of Pop
Couldn’t pick just ten positive songs so I’ve got 25 in my list… and in no particular order…
#1 - Eight days a week ~ Beatles
#2 - She bangs the drum ~ Stone Roses
#3 - Brother ~ Steve Vai
#4 - Albatross ~ Fleetwood Mac
#5 - Bluejeans and Moonbeams ~ Captain Beefheart
#6 - Picture this ~ Blondie
#7 - Sweet child o’ mine ~ Guns n’ Roses
#8 - Let’s Dance ~ Ramones
#9 - I turn to you ~ Mel C.
#10 - Higher and higher ~ Jackie Wilson
#11 - Songbird ~ Oasis
#12 - Love is stronger than death ~ The The
#13 - We have all the time in the world ~ Louis Armstrong
#14 - Observatory Crest ~ Captain Beefheart
#15 - The Sunshine Underground ~ Chemical Brothers
#16 - Don’t stop me now ~ Queen
#17 - Hey ya ~ Outkast
#18 - Further Than we’ve gone ~ Captain Beefheart
#19 - Guaglione ~ Perez Prado
#20 - All you need is love ~ Beatles
#21 - The tide is turning ~ Roger Waters
#22 - This is the day ~ The The
#23 - Dreaming ~ Blondie
#24 - Hand on heart ~ Steve Vai
#25 - Peaches en regalia ~ Frank Zappa
…these made the list simply because they all leave with a smile on my face… simple as that.
I really enjoyed reading through your lists and all of the people who added songs! Thank you so much for sharing. I love this John Mayer song:
The Heart Of Life
——John Mayer
I hate to see you cry
Lying there in that position
There’s things you need to hear
So turn off your tears and listen
Pain throws you heart to the ground
Love turns the whole thing around
No, it won’t all go the way, it should
But I know the heart of life is good
You know it’s nothing new
Bad news never had good timing
Then the circle of your friends
Will defend the silver lining
Pain throws your heart to the ground
Love turns the whole thing around
No, it won’t all go the way, it should
But I know the heart of life is good
(Whistle Interlude)
Pain throws your heart to the ground
Love turns the whole thing around
Fear is a friend who’s misunderstood
But I know the heart of life is good
I know it’s good
My take on this song :
Life doesn’t always seem to give us what we want, but we can always find the strength within us and around us through our friends and loved ones, to get what we need.
Thanks so much for the work you are doing!
Love these lists too!
Here’s ten of my favorites….
1. Love Train - O’Jays (LYRICS STILL APPLY TO TODAY!)
2. I Love Music - O’Jays (says it all)
3. Isn’t She Lovely - Stevie Wonder (the joy of a child)
4. A Beautiful Morning -Rascals (Great song to walke up to
5. Beautiful Day - U2
6. Shinny Happy People REM
7. All You Need Is Love - Beatles (a classic)
8. Bridge Over Troubled Water - Simon & Garfunkel
9. One Love - Bob Marley
10. Time of My Life - David Cook (enjoy where you are!)
Oh…. one more ……
Thank You For The Music - ABBA (good way to end ! )
KEEP THE MUSIC LISTS COMING PEOPLE…THEY’RE INSPIRING!
XOXOXOXOXO
Song of the Soul, by Cris Williamson. This is a must sing song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-7yjMLNops
Hi Victor…..great to see you and Debbie and I love your site. A lot of hard work on your part and a lot of joy on our part. Thank you.
Positive inspirational music has always been a big part of our lives and we continue to enjoy it as background music here at the restaurant. There are tooooo many favorites to list all at once so I will only share a couple right now.
Anything by the Newsboys is great -
Stay Strong, Shine, A Beautiful Sound, Something Beautiful. They are all great songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPqt970UbZ8 (Stay Strong) This is a great song that has helped me many a time…..
What if I Stumble - DC Talk
Wake Up Everybody - Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes
Walking on Sunshine - Katrina and the Waves
Anyway Vic, These are just a few of my favorites and I will definately be back to visit your regularly….
Take care and God Bless
Gayle
I think maybe my list is too long to post so I am going to break it down into a few comments or so lol
Carrie Underwood
- So Small
-Wasted
-Crazy Dreams
-Wheel of the World
Britney Spears
-Do Something
-Stronger
Sheryl Crow
Soak Up the Sun
All I Wanna Do
Christina Aguilera
-Fighter
-Beautiful
-Voice Within
-Cruz
-Keep on Singing my Song
Natasha Bedingfield
-Unwritten
Kanye West
-Stronger
Lindsay Lohan
-A Beautiful Life (La Bella Vita)
Destinys Child
Independent Women
Survivor
Bootylicious
Eminem
Lose Yourself
Mariah Carey & Whitney Houston
When You Believe
Shania Twain
Up!
When You Kiss Me
Rock This Country
Spice Girls
Spice Up Your Life
Lady Gaga
Just Dance
Hilary Duff
So Yesterday
Why Not
Louis Armstrong
What a Wonderful World
All-Star Tribute/Bob Marley
What’s Going On?
Martha & The Vandellas
Dancing in the Streets
The Beatles
All You Need is Love
Twist and Shout
Justin Timberlake
Sexyback
Rihanna
Don’t Stop the Music
SOS
2pac
Changes
Keep Ya Head Up
Dear Mama
Jessica Simpson
With You
Hoku
Perfect Day
Pink
So What
Reba McEntire
I’m a Survivor
Gwen Stefani
What You Waiting For?
Black Eyed Peas
Boom Boom Pow
Where is the Love?
Pump It
Let’s Get it Started
Jewel
Hands
Dionne Warwick
What the World Needs Now
Thats What Friends are for
………………………………………………………………………………………
I have been trying to make a list of positive songs to post. Whether they put me in a good mood, pump up my energy, inspire me, humble me and/or just send out a good message, I think they all could be considered positive songs. Here is my list thus far…
Carrie Underwood
-So Small
-Wasted
-Crazy Dreams
-Wheel of the World
Britney Spears
-Do Something
-Stronger
Sheryl Crow
-Soak Up the Sun
-All I Wanna Do
Christina Aguilera
-Fighter
-Beautiful
-Voice Within
-Cruz
-Keep on Singing my Song
Natasha Bedingfield
-Unwritten
Kanye West
-Stronger
Lindsay Lohan
-A Beautiful Life (La Bella Vita)
Destinys Child
-Independent Women
-Survivor
-Bootylicious
Eminem
-Lose Yourself
Mariah Carey & Whitney Houston
-When You Believe
Shania Twain
Up!
When You Kiss Me
Rock This Country
Spice Girls
Spice Up Your Life
Lady Gaga
Just Dance
Hilary Duff
So Yesterday
Why Not
Louis Armstrong
What a Wonderful World
All-Star Tribute/Bob Marley
What’s Going On?
Martha & The Vandellas
Dancing in the Streets
The Beatles
All You Need is Love
Twist and Shout
Justin Timberlake
Sexyback
Rihanna
Don’t Stop the Music
SOS
Live your Life (ft. T.I)
2pac
Changes
Keep Ya Head Up
Dear Mama
Jessica Simpson
With You
Hoku
Perfect Day
Pink
So What
Reba McEntire
I’m a Survivor
Gwen Stefani
What You Waiting For?
Black Eyed Peas
Boom Boom Pow
Where is the Love?
Pump It
Let’s Get it Started
Jewel
Hands
Dionne Warwick
What the World Needs Now
Thats What Friends are for
Hedly
Never Too Late
Its funny because even though there are SO many good songs out there that put me in a happy state of mind, I had such a hard time thinking of a lot, and I had to google a lot of artists to be reminded of some positive songs. It was fun to make the list though! I listened to a lot of old songs that I otherwise wouldn’t have bothered with, that are fun to hear (like Spice Girls lol).I think I will make a mixed CD of all of these songs to play (especially on the days when I wake up on the wrong side of the bed!) All of the songs on my list are positive in one way or another. They might just be energetic and pump me up, or have a inspirational message or are just plain fun.
Oops! I guess my list somehow ended up being listed twice too lol
I think I went a little too far with my research…lol…
Aloha Kakou!
I write upbeat songs with positive messages. Have a listen for free at:
http://sonicbids.com/alohadevmusic
The player is on the very top of the page.
Blessings of Joy and Love to you all, Dewi
Check out shaunpaul.com, “the home of Seattle area cellist, composer, performer and teacher, Shaun Paul. His website pages offer a glimpse into the life of this diversified, passionate, and versatile musical artist. Information regarding Shaun Paul’s albums, performances, music licensing, as well as cello instruction can be found at http://www.shaunpaul.com/discography/everlasting.htm”
Incredible artist, deeply moving music! Listen to the clips.
Enjoy & be Blessed.
Hi Vic,
This is just the beginning of the list and many great things…
per•se•vere - to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement
Athena Cage – All or Nothing
It’s the chance of life, get ready, set, fly high.
Above the fear of your mind, go for it.
It’s hit or miss, too late for you to quit.
You gotta show ‘em how bad you really want this, so…
Live your dreams, it’s not as hard as it may seem.
You gotta work to get the cream, on your hopes you must lean,
From your fears you have to wean yourself.
It’s all or nothing, give your everything…
Free - Elliott Yamin
You’ll be free
Nothing’s impossible
Free (alright,alright)
You’ve achieved the unexplainable
Free
I believe that miracles
Happen to those
Who refuse to be told
They can happen when we least expect
So we let ourselves be free
Mariah Carey - Fly Like A Bird
Somehow I know that
There’s a place up above
With no more hurt and struggling
Free of all atrocities and suffering
Because I feel the unconditional love
From one who cares enough for me
To erase all my burdens
And let me be free to fly like a bird
Jordin Sparks - One Step At A Time
When you can’t wait any longer
But there’s no end in sight
when you need to find the strength
It’s your faith that makes you stronger
The only way you get there
Is one step at a time
Mary J. Blige - Happy
I just wanna be so, so, happy
But the answer lies in me
I do believe
That we can be happy
I said I wanna be happy, yeah
Inaya Day - Keep Pushin’
Keep pushin on
things are going to get better
it won’t take long
keep-on pushin to the top
NSYNC – Do your thing
There ain’t no excuse for losing your feet
Drowning in your defeat, on this road of life
there ain’t no excuse for coming up short, the ball is in your court
so reach up and touch the sky
The Five Stairsteps – Oo Child
Ooh-oo child, things are gonna get easier
Ooh-oo child, things’ll get brighter
Ooh-oo child, things are gonna get easier
Ooh-oo child, things’ll be brighter
R. Kelly - I believe I can fly
I believe I can fly
I believe I can touch the sky
I think about it every night and day
Spread my wings and fly away
I believe I can soar
I see me running through that open door
I believe I can fly
I believe I can fly
I believe I can fly
Goapele – Change It All
I never found a 9 to 5
That was worth it from my soul
Til I
I pursued what brought joy in my life
And there’s something for us all
And I still think it is my right
And it’s the last and one of few
To get the luxury for learning
Something I could use
Let’s Get Together written by Chet Powers in the early’60’s
one line is “You hold the key to love and fear all in your trembling hand” I was 14 when I heard the Kingston Trio do it and it knocked my socks off…. Ya mean that I can be responsible for my own attitude and actions?
Rory in Toronto
Thanks Rory, Get Together is also one of the first social conscious songs I learned. I loved the hit version from the one hit wonder by the Youngbloods.
Love is but a song we sing
fears’ the way we die
You can make the mountains ring
or make the angels cry
Though the dove is on the wing
and you may not know why
Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
and try to love one another right now
Some may come and some may go
He will surely pass
When the one that left us here
returns for us at last
We are but a moment’s sunlight
fading in the grass
Come on people now
smile on your brother
everybody get together
try to love one another right now
x3
If you hear the song I sing
you will understand…listen
You hold the key to love and fear
all in your trembling hand
Just one key unlocks them both
Its there at your command
Chorus x 3
That song was part of the second generation of social conscious folk (folk rock) the first having come with Pete Seger (If I Had A Hammer) and Woody Guthrie. (Father of Alro).
Songs like
Untied We Stand (Divided We Fall) Brotherhood Of Man,
and songs that really became Social Protest songs,
Eve Of Destruction by Barry McGuire was really an important positive change catalyst as well as
For What It’s Worth, by the Buffalo Springfield,
There’s something happening here
What it is ain’t exactly clear
There’s a man with a gun over there
Telling me I got to beware
I think it’s time we stop, children, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
There’s battle lines being drawn
Nobody’s right if everybody’s wrong
Young people speaking their minds
Getting so much resistance from behind
I think it’s time we stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
What a field-day for the heat
A thousand people in the street
Singing songs and carrying signs
Mostly say, hooray for our side
It’s time we stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Paranoia strikes deep
Into your life it will creep
It starts when you’re always afraid
You step out of line, the man come and take you away
We better stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, hey, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, now, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
Stop, children, what’s that sound
Everybody look what’s going down
and while lots of Positive Music is purely motivational, there will always be part of it that takes a stand to make Positive Change in the world.
My most recent fave that I can’t seem to stop playing is
We Are The People by the Australian duo Empire of the Sun
Album : Walking on a Dream
We can remember swimming in December,
Heading for the city lights, in 1975
We share in each other
Nearer than father
The scent of a lemon, drips from your eyes
We are the people that rule the world
A force running in every boy and girl
All rejoicing in the world
Take me now
We can try
We lived an adventure
Love in the Summer
Followed the sun till night
Reminiscing other times of life
For each every other
The feeling was stronger
The shock hit eleven
Got lost in your eyes
I can’t do well when I think you’re gonna leave me, but I know I try
Are you gonna leave me now
Can’t you be believing now
(repeat)
Can you remember and humanize,
It was still where we’d energized,
Lie in the sand and visualize like its 75 again
We are the people that rule the world
A force running in every boy and girl
All rejoicing in the world
Take me now
We can try
I can’t do well when I think you’re gonna leave me, but I know I try
Are you gonna leave me now
Can’t you be believing now
(repeat)
I know everything about you
You know everything about me
Know everything about us
(repeat)
I can’t do well when I think you’re gonna leave me, but I know I try Are you gonna leave me now Can’t you be believing now
(repeat)
I’ve seen a lot of my favorites listed already, like Journey’s Don’t Stop Believing.
Let me think…
~ One Tribe by Blackeyed Peas
~ It’s a Beautiful Day by India Arie
~ I am Not Afraid by Etana
~ Roots by Etana
~ Celebration by Kool & the Gang
~ almost any song of Bob Marley’s
~ There’s Hope by India Arie
~ People Everyday by Arrested Development
~ Boston’s More than a Feeling
~ S.O.S. Band Just Be Good to Me
~ my friend Lionheart’s conscious reggae - any of his old roots reggae songs
~ I have to admit shamelessly that I love the title track of my latest CD Medicine Song. It does something for people, and for me… when I sing it, I can feel the journey I’m talking about in the song. I don’t know, there’s just something magical about that one.
~ Soul II Soul Back to Life
~ I liked Fleetwood Mac’s “Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow” so much that it was one of the first 2 songs I ever got the guts up to sing on stage. The other one I sang was a Journey tune, can’t remember which one cause I love them all.
I could be here for days listing all the positive music that has impacted my life. Music is my life!!
Thanks for doing what you do and sharing this blog.
Love & Light,
Brenda, Medicine Song Woman
http://healingsinger.com
Cudos to the Positive Music Imperative!!! This is a great website to not only promote Positive Music, but also gives everyone a much better understanding of why Positive Music is so important.
I noticed Boyzone, No Matter what listed previously on some of the Positive Song lists. Their lead singer has a great album out that’s doing really well on both the World Music and Europe charts right now: Ronan Keating, Songs For My Mother.
Keating has always done Positive music, (My fave Life Is A Rollercoaster). This album which is a dedication to his late mother Marie who passed away from Cancer, is filled with Positivity through out, but the two I would point you towards is his cover of I Believe I Can Fly and a wonderful version of Joshua Kadison’s Mama’s Arms.
Keep up the great Positivity!
I love the P.I. Initiative and am excited about sharing my top 10 positive songs list.
1. We’re All In This Together~Ben Lee
2. Live to Be Free~ Griffin House
3. Take The Time~ Freddy Jones Band
4. Change Your Mind~ Sister Hazel
5. Underdog~ Spoon
6. Everday People~ Sly & The Family Stone
7. Let Your Love Flow~ Bellamy Brothers
8. Stay~ Dave Matthews Band
9. All These Things That I’ve Done~ The Killers
10. In the Beginning~ K’naan
I’m a friend of Victor and am taking a try at writing lyrics. Your comments, suggestion and advice is appreciated as this is my first attempt.
Moment of Change
Waiting at the corner of this rhyme
The clock ticking down
It’s only a matter of time
Cornered the routes, wondering where to go
Persistence is the key, never loose hope
Ambition is the fire
That continues to burn
We were knocked to the ground
Might as well do heavens work
Ambition is the fire
That continues to burn
Darkness all around
We are the light, a beacon of hope
They say the world is suffering
That change is too slow
Discouraging media deprives the soul
We wait for the change we want to occur
We look at yesterday for the future of earth
Ambition is the fire
That continues to burn
We are the change
We were waiting for
Ambition is the fire
That continues to burn
Its the beat of actions
We will do on earth
Life is too short
To ponder on the how
Yet just long enough
To change a frown
Life ain’t a game or a cliche
Its a story of a journey of only one day
-W.Baggia
Excellent lyrics!
Here’s a couple to add to the mix…
Sufi Exstatic Song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjBZZv712z4
Elbow- One day like this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQIdXKz4sE8
I’ve now only played this song 4,352 times!
Love it
Love it
Love it!
We Are The Peole, by Empire of the Sun.
Hmmm, I haven’t been adding my new faves that I continually get on our Positive Imperative Facebook Group… but here’s a few from what would be called the PosiSinger Indie Market which I so love,
Why Can’t I, by Melissa Lewis,
We’re All In This Together, Jana Stanfield,
Overjoyed, Christine Cane
Love Crusade, Sarah Westbrook
Oh and if you love PosiDance music check out this one.
One Love by David Guetta
Come visit our Facebook Group for more ideas. :>)
http://bit.ly/4KyKw3
This will sound biased, but in truth it took a long time for me to be able to say this - I really think my newest CD ‘Take Me Home’ (CD Baby and ITunes) is an outstanding tribute to Positive Music. Certainly my email tells me this is true. I can only say that it was born on the wings of all the amazing artists and teachers who have been before me. I am so Blessed.
David Archuleta and David Cook have definitely been two of the best motivational and positve singers from American Idol, but there are many others to choose from along with their shows on Pop inspiration~**
i always remember the music of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine. great music!.;*~
Josh Groban is one of my favorite classical-pop singer and his song You Raise Me Up has inspired and changed lives…… after Hayley Westenra~ Positive Music is so needed in a negative world!
Tina Turner will always be a legend in music history. Her song Simply The Best is pefect to add to the positive music concept.”
American Idol has done whole topics on music of inspiration. That’s how you know this is such a big topic. David Archuleta is great for positive music especially with his song You’re the Voice, but then the music companies gave him too many dram songs like Crush. But for me, the best is still Kelly Clarkson, I love her song A Moment Like This’.~
A moment like this
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
Some people search forever
For that one special kiss
Ohh, I can’t believe it’s happening to me
Some people wait a lifetime
For a moment like this
Isabella
All You Need Is Love, With A Little Help From My Friends and Let It Be, are three classics for the list. It was mostly always John Lennon who put the substance in the Beatles music first. Paul as the love song guy. Give Peace A Chance, Instant Karma and Beautiful Boy are all great examples. The number 1 song is without a doubt Imagine. A song that shook the world that was wrapt in a world of Religions Dogma. For so many people in the world the lyrics, that were so bold in its time ratified what many have known for centuries which is more people have died in the name of religion than for any other reason in the history of mankind.