Top Friendship Songs in Western Music [2026]

You’ve Got a Friend In MeRandy Newman29rank/position

Randy Newman – You’ve Got a Friend in Me (From “Toy Story 4″/Audio Only)

Pixar Animation Studios’ flagship series Toy Story is also popular as one of the best tear-jerking friendship films, with friendship as a key theme.

When it comes to the signature theme song that colors the series, it has to be the classic You’ve Got a Friend in Me, known in Japanese as Kimi wa Tomodachi.

Written by the great American singer-songwriter Randy Newman for the first film in the series, released in 1995, You’ve Got a Friend in Me has continued to be used throughout the series, performed by various artists.

Some may also remember that in the Japanese dubbed version it was sung by Diamond Yukai and even released as a single.

With its country flavor, laid-back tempo, and ensemble, the lyrics are a straightforward ode to friendship that needs no clumsy explanation.

And having a friend who delivers a message as simple as “You can relax—I’ve got your back” is truly a wonderful thing.

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Started From The BottomDrake30rank/position

Drake – Started From the Bottom

Drake, a Canadian rapper active since the 2000s, is known for his skillful rap technique and distinctive dance performances.

His 2013 release “Started From The Bottom” depicts his journey to stardom.

The track has a deep, exotic atmosphere.

It’s also recommended as an anthem to cheer on friends who have been striving together toward their dreams and goals.

Take in his powerful message, forged through overcoming many challenges.

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My FriendsRed Hot Chili Peppers31rank/position

Red Hot Chili Peppers – My Friends [Official Music Video]

A hidden gem by the indisputable powerhouse of rock, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, showcasing their mellow side.

It’s included on One Hot Minute, the only album released during the period when Dave Navarro—renowned for his work with Jane’s Addiction—was in the band as guitarist.

While it may lack the typical funk flavor associated with the Peppers, it highlights Flea’s strength as a songwriter, Navarro’s simple yet wistful guitar work, and Anthony Kiedis’s gentle vocals and melodies.

The message to a friend in pain isn’t baselessly positive; it’s realistic and serious.

Precisely because of that, it carries a persuasive power that truly resonates with listeners.

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ArmyEllie Goulding32rank/position

Ellie Goulding – Army (Official Video)

Army, a song released in 2015 by Ellie Goulding, a talented singer-songwriter from the UK, is a track from her third album, Delirium.

The song is a message Ellie dedicated to her best friend, movingly conveying how powerful true friendship can be in overcoming life’s challenges.

Portraying the comfort, strength, and courage that come from having a best friend by your side, it celebrates the beauty and importance of friendship.

Ellie’s heartfelt vocals and emotional melody resonate deeply with listeners and evoke strong empathy.

It’s a powerful yet gentle song that I highly recommend to anyone who values friendship.

You’ve got a friend in me – Randy Newman –TOY STORY33rank/position

Toy Story – You’ve got a friend in me – Randy Newman – Lyrics

A friendship song that’s easy to recommend even for young children.

Written by singer-songwriter Randy Newman as the theme song for the 1995 animated film Toy Story, it expresses a straightforward sentiment of “You’ve got a friend in me!” The lyrics clearly reflect the film’s story.

Because it’s so well-known, it might be perfect as BGM for a surprise video for Disney fans or friends who love Toy Story.

Thank You For Being A FriendAndrew Gold34rank/position

Andrew Gold – Thank You For Being A Friend (Official Music Video)

A heartwarming song that celebrates the greatness of friendship.

Released by Andrew Gold in March 1978, the track is included on the album “All This and Heaven Too.” Its lyrics express gratitude for true companions, paired with a catchy melody that leaves a strong impression.

It was also used as the theme song for the TV series “The Golden Girls,” making it beloved by multiple generations.

Even if you find it hard to put your feelings for friends into words, listening to this piece will naturally bring out your sense of appreciation.

It’s the perfect song to enjoy with a dear friend or when you want to reaffirm your bond.

Song for a FriendJason Mraz35rank/position

Song for a Friend

Written by Jason Mraz as a heartfelt tribute to friendship, this piece appears on his 2005 album Mr.

A–Z.

Carried by the warm tones of an acoustic guitar, the message to an irreplaceable friend unfolds quietly, like a letter to someone dear.

The words are simple, yet they convey a clear sense of gratitude for the days spent supporting each other and a firm belief in a bond that doesn’t change, even across distance.

It’s the perfect song for expressing your feelings to friends as you reach the milestone of graduation and head down your own paths.

Its gentle melody tenderly wraps both the sadness of parting and the hope for a new future.