[2026] Go for it! Popular Uplifting and Motivational Songs in Western Music

Across the UniverseThe Beatles

The Beatles – Across the Universe

It’s one of the signature songs from the Beatles’ later period.

I interpret it as exploring the contrasting themes of the cosmos and one’s inner world, while still conveying the message that personal will matters.

If I wanted to sincerely encourage someone, this is the song I’d recommend.

ImagineThe Beatles

IMAGINE. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) – John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band (with the Flux Fiddlers) HD

There are actually various theories about who made the Beatles’ “Imagine,” and there’s a story that Yoko Ono recently claimed she created it herself.

Yoko Ono’s presence as an artist isn’t widely known, but much of her work is quite avant-garde.

For now, I’ve decided to treat it as a Beatles song here.

Wash It AwayThe Ghost Inside

The Ghost Inside – “Wash It Away”

The Ghost Inside, who released a new song in February 2024, are a band that has secured an unshakable place in the American metalcore scene.

The track is a lead single from their album “Searching for Solace,” slated for release in April.

It’s a sweeping piece that sings of overcoming life’s hardships and embracing new beginnings.

Jonathan Vigil’s powerful vocals paired with melodic guitars leave a strong impression, reflecting themes of the band’s trials and rebirth.

After restarting their journey following the 2015 bus accident, their music has gained even greater depth, offering courage to face adversity.

It’s a perfect song for anyone striving to overcome difficulties.

SOULSUCKERWaterparks

Waterparks – SOULSUCKER (Official Music Video)

Skillfully blending elements of pop punk and emo, this work vividly portrays the pains of youth and the journey of self-discovery.

It’s a track from Waterparks’ album “INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY 2: LOST IN THE PROPERTY,” released in May 2024, featuring striking lyrics that grapple with religious guilt and the struggle for self-understanding.

Alongside its energetic sound, the song encourages the courage to face one’s inner darkness.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to confront yourself or fire yourself up.

With their appearance at Slam Dunk Festival 2024 confirmed, anticipation is high for how it will sound live.

NutrockerELP

Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Nut Rocker – Live in Switzerland, 1970

A classic progressive rock album by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, also featured in Takayuki Tatsumi’s The Philosophy of Progressive Rock.

The grand, majestic arrangement of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and Keith Emerson’s brilliant keyboards are striking, but what the author liked most was track 12 on the album, Nutrocker, an arrangement of The Nutcracker.

The RobotsKraftwerk

Kraftwerk – The Robots (Official Video)

One of the songs I discovered through a friend of mine, it’s tied to an unforgettable memory.

The friend who introduced it is a huge fan of Alva Noto—so much so that he even went to his live shows.

Of course, I’m writing about it here under the banner of a “cheering song,” so I’m not sure how many people would feel uplifted by his experimental works.

But when he introduced me to this new kind of music, I felt a certain sense of awe.

St. Elmo’s FireJohn Parr

John Parr – St Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion)

Since it’s a nostalgic song, people in their forties and older will probably be happy.

This track has a simple melody that today’s trendy songs don’t have.

I’m sure it will make you feel encouraged as you remember those days.

I’d also be happy if it gets you listening to music again after a long time.