31 Best Motivational Songs For Work, All Clean & Appropriate

“Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson

Song Year: 2011

Working is a lot like having a lover. You have to put in the time regardless. Kelly Clarkson used the saying,’ What doesn't kill you, by philosopher Nietzsche, which translates well into having to survive another long day at the office.

With its uptempo sound, the song is a dance-pop and electro pop mix that speaks about heartbreak and enduring recovery.

“I’m Still Standing” by Elton John

Song Year: 1983

Sir Elton John already had it going on when he filmed and recorded this international hit in France. The opening score is a smash and instantly recognizable and transcends time. It makes us think of getting fit, getting through the day, and overcoming obstacles.

For fun, see if you can spot celebrity judge Bruno Tonioli as a dancer in the video.

“Shake It Off by Taylor Swift

Song Year: 2014

Many underestimated this petite sensation and wrote her off as a flighty star, yet she’s proved everyone wrong with her business acumen and talent.

“Shake It Off” is Swift’s way of sending a message about dealing with the nasty side of the business and people being mean. She equates the feeling of overcoming negative stereotypes and lies in show business to being bullied in school.

“Welcome to The Jungle” by Guns n’ Roses

Song Year: 1987

Some songs pass the test of time, and “Welcome to the Jungle” has continued to energize crowds. The song is about naivety and inexperience and an introduction to the fast pace of a vibrant city. The Billboard Hot 100 song nicely transitions in meaning from debauchery in the seedy city to the underlying currents of what goes on behind the scenes in big corporations.

The theme reminds us about being true to ourselves. Anyone starting a new job can relate to the similarities because the lyrics are genuinely profound.

The song is so iconic that it appears in many films and video games.

“Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi

Song Year: 1986

This Bon Jovi hit is the anthem for millions of people who sacrifice to get ahead or to make the right decision based on moral priorities. Bon Jovi and his band wrote the lyrics based on real people and life experiences.

“Livin’ on a Prayer” means getting by on faith and what the universe throws at you. It also means having a life partner when things are bad makes the moment sweeter.

This hit song blurred the lines between rock and pop radio and is Bon Jovi’s signature tune.

“Working for the Weekend” by Loverboy

Song Year: 1981

Loverboy created the smash 80s hit song “Working for the Weekend.” Every person can relate to the theme. The guitarist and songwriter got his inspiration from the empty streets while walking on a Wednesday. It dawned on him that everyone was working for the weekend.

The song still has meaning today as we all work toward the weekend to enjoy our freedom. Will Ferrell, aka Ron Burgundy, did a parody of this hit, and it’s been a feature in the film Herbie.

“The Heat Is On” by Glenn Frey

Song Year: 1984

Frey is an Eagles member, and this soundtrack for the movie Beverly Hills Cops starring Eddie Murphy is full of zest and energy. The phrase “The Heat Is On” implies the pressure of immediate action, which the movie is also about.

Frey recorded the song after seeing a movie demo. The upbeat music has a repeating saxophone riff that we can quickly identify. Frey sang and also put down the guitar solo.

“Don’t Stop Believin” by Journey

Song Year: 1981

This massive hit single still inspires generations with its strong message of never giving up and believing in your dreams. The original words of wisdom came from one of the band members' fathers, who told his son to keep believing in his dream.

The opening keyboard riff immediately takes listeners on a journey, almost like a train leaving the station, and you have to run to hop on.

“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

Song Year: 2015

Life is hard, but don’t let it beat you down. You have to believe, pick yourself up and fight. Initially, the singer-songwriter wrote this powerful anthem to tell herself not to give up despite being in the dumps.

The song catapulted Platten to success. The hit has had many media successes ranging from sporting events to the political arena (Hillary Clinton’s campaign song), commercials, and television programs.

“Takin’ Care of Business” by BTO

Song Year: 1973

Bachman Turner Overdrive inspired this hit when Bachman (former Guess Who) was listening to the radio, and the DJ said, “Takin’ Care of Business,” which fit with a song he was working on about a white-collar worker.

The rock anthem means you’re on the job and getting things done, but it also has a sly underside that might mean it’s about doing nothing all day.

Since this is our third Canadian entry, it’s safe to assume Canadians work hard.