Popular Cheer-Up Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

We Will Rock YouQueen15rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

With its powerful handclaps and stomping rhythm, this staple track energizes sports festivals and dance events.

Released in October 1977 by the British rock band Queen from the album “News of the World,” the song celebrates the determination to overcome setbacks and hardships in pursuit of victory.

As a rousing anthem symbolizing unity and fighting spirit, it continues to be embraced across sports scenes worldwide.

The foot stomps and handclaps recorded by the band members themselves create a sense of togetherness that draws in the audience, and in 2002 it was also adopted as the title song for the musical “We Will Rock You.” It’s the perfect choice for those who want to bring an entire venue together during school sports days or dance performances.

UnderdogAlicia Keys16rank/position

Alicia Keys – Underdog (Official Video)

This work could be called an anthem for those pushed to the margins of society.

Alicia Keys’s warm vocals gently embrace people who refuse to give up.

Released in March 2020, it sparked major buzz worldwide.

As a single from the album “Alicia,” it reached No.

69 on the Billboard Hot 100.

When you feel like you’re about to be defeated by hardship, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to rise again.

That’s right—you’re not an “underdog.” If you cherish what you love and keep looking forward as you walk on, the path will surely open up.

Viva La VidaColdplay17rank/position

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

This song is characterized by its grandiose, majestic sound.

Released by the British rock band Coldplay in May 2008, it unfolds an epic narrative woven with historical and religious metaphors.

The lyrics, portraying the inner turmoil and self-reflection of a ruler falling from past glory, offer deep insights that reconsider the transience of life and the impermanence of power.

Featured in Apple’s iPod TV commercial, the song captured global attention.

At the 51st Annual Grammy Awards in 2009, it won Song of the Year, cementing its place as one of Coldplay’s signature tracks.

It’s a moving piece that resonates when you’re facing setbacks or loneliness, or when you’re about to take a new step forward.

What A Man Gotta DoJonas Brothers18rank/position

Jonas Brothers – What A Man Gotta Do (Official Video)

The Jonas Brothers are a sibling band whose catchy musical style has won them fans among listeners all over the world.

Many people in Japan may be familiar with them as well.

Among their works, What A Man Gotta Do is an especially popular track, embraced particularly by younger generations as a bright, upbeat song.

The true charm of this track lies in its vibes and lyrics.

The passionate vibes born from its cheerful melody and the relatable lyrics are sure to give you a push forward!

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Shape of YouEd Sheeran19rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

A grown-up love song from Ed Sheeran, marked by a lively rhythm and catchy melody.

Beginning with a chance encounter at a bar, this heart-pounding, exhilarating romance unfolds gently through his warm, tender vocals.

The thrill of falling in love and the feeling of being captivated by every aspect of the other person are conveyed through skillful metaphors that resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in January 2017 as the lead single from the album ÷, it topped the music charts in more than 34 countries and won Best Pop Solo Performance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards.

It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to fire yourself up—on busy mornings commuting to work or school, or while playing sports.

Brimming with positive energy, this song will give you strength for the day ahead.

I HopeGabby Barrett20rank/position

Gabby Barrett – I Hope (Official Music Video)

Gabby Barrett is a female singer who has gained popularity on the American country music scene.

After drawing attention on the popular U.S.

audition show American Idol, she established a solid position in country music.

Among her works, one I especially recommend is I Hope.

It portrays a woman whose ex-boyfriend cheated on her, but it’s not a dark song; the lyrics are uplifting, expressing a positive resolve to keep moving forward despite painful experiences.

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Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)Kelly Clarkson21rank/position

Kelly Clarkson – Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) [Official Video]

Kelly Clarkson is an American singer-songwriter who launched her career as the winner of the first season of American Idol.

Her song Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You), which showcases her powerful vocals, continues to be loved as an anthem that gives listeners courage.

Based on Nietzsche’s famous saying, the lyrics depict becoming stronger through overcoming heartbreak and hardship, resonating with many people.

Included on the album Stronger and released as a single in January 2012, the track became a massive hit, spending three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

If you listen to it when you want to fire yourself up or feel more positive, it’s sure to fill you with energy—so be sure to check it out.