Hidden gems of upbeat Western songs. Recommended popular tracks.
This is a playlist of Western songs packed with positive sounds and powerful vocals—perfect for when you want a boost.
It brings together hidden gems from a wide range of eras.
Recommended for when you want to pump yourself up, give yourself a push, or just can’t seem to get in the mood.
Hidden gems of upbeat Western music: recommended popular songs (1–10)
The Best Day EverSpongeBob
How about some feel-good pop rock that’ll put a smile on your face, straight from a beloved American animated series? Sung by Tom Kenny, the voice actor of the main character, this track brims with irrepressibly positive energy, boldly declaring that today will be “the best day ever.” True to the creators’ aim of crafting “a Beatles-style cartoon song,” the sound is polished into superb pop rock.
The song first appeared on the movie’s soundtrack and later became the lead track of the acclaimed album “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Best Day Ever.” When it was used in the TV series, it drew a whopping 6.7 million viewers.
If you want to turn an ordinary day into something special, this just might be the perfect song.
Song 2Blur
It’s included on the 1997 album “Blur.” A four-piece from London formed in 1988.
This song uses the kind of quiet-to-loud, loud-to-quiet sound production that Nirvana once excelled at, giving it sharp contrasts where poppiness and raw roughness coexist, and listening to it really fills you with energy.
start me upThe Rolling Stones
It’s included on the 1981 album “Tattoo You.” A four-piece from London formed in 1962, they’re true living legends who are still active today.
With a laid-back rhythm and a simple, guitar-driven rock sound, combined with Mick’s gritty, powerhouse vocals, it’s a track that makes you want to throw your fist in the air.
Wavin’ FlagK’NAAN
It’s a powerful message song imbued with a wish for hope and freedom.
Somali-Canadian artist K’naan draws on his own experiences and the situation in his homeland to sing about the courage to face adversity and hope for the future.
Taken from the album “Troubadour” and released in February 2009, the song resonated with people around the world and saw its impact spread widely.
It was chosen as an official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and was also used in Coca-Cola’s promotional campaign.
With its strong melody and universal message, it’s an ideal cheering song for uniting participants at major events such as sports days and athletic festivals.
Keep Ya Head Up2Pac
Known as an anthem of encouragement for African American women, this song speaks to those suffering from poverty and discrimination, telling them to “keep your head up.” Tupac’s warm voice truly resonates.
Released in September 1993, it captured many hearts with its powerful message.
It’s especially recommended for single mothers and anyone facing hardship.
Listening to it can make you feel ready to look ahead and keep walking forward.
It’s a song with deep meaning that also prompts reflection on social issues.
How to be a millionaire ?ABC
It’s included on the 1985 album “How to Be a …
Zillionaire!”.
They’re a British duo formed in 1980.
The horn tones that come in during the intro and elsewhere are striking, and just listening to that part lifts your spirits.
Overall it’s a poppy, up-tempo track that really energizes you.
Jumpin’ Jack FlashAretha Franklin
It’s included on the 1986 album “Aretha.” A cover of a song the Rolling Stones released in 1968.
It served as the theme song for the film of the same name released in 1986.
Born in 1942, a singer-songwriter from Michigan.
Delivering the familiar Stones sound with soulful vocals, this rendition offers a different kind of charm than the Stones’ version—powerful, uplifting, and guaranteed to get you in a great mood.