27 Best Songs About Being Proud Of Someone

“Proud” by Heather Small

Song year: 2001

In this soul-filled, chorus-chanting track of inspiring messages and cheery tones, Heather Small sings about making you and those around you proud. It's an uplifting song that'll assuredly pick you up when you're in the dumps and motivate you to keep moving forward.

She says that there's always a chance to succeed and that it's never too late to give things a shot. Worst case scenario, you'll wake up the next day and have to try again.

“What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction

Song year: 2011

If you remember this decade-old boy band hit, you're probably confused why it's on our list, but just hear us out!

When you listen to the lyrics of the song closely, you'll quickly realize that the singers' infatuation with the girl in question goes beyond simple attraction and extends to the point where they take great pride in her beauty. While straightforward reasoning, it should be said that sometimes it's pride like this that goes a long way. 

Plus, this song has always just been fun to listen to.

“Your Song” by Elton John

Song year: 1970

The singer in Elton John's “Your Song” is grateful to another unnamed individual and proud enough to write a song dedicated to them. 

While they don't think a heartfelt melody written, composed, and sung is enough to express their appreciation, we, as the audience, know it's more than enough.

“Born This Way” by Lady Gaga

Song year: 2011

Another 2011 viral sensation, “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga, was one of those “be proud of yourself” songs and distinguished itself by being an anthem for the misfits and deviants of the world. 

As Gaga implies, being proud of yourself and who you are takes priority over the pride of others, and you shouldn't give in to any negative opinions that might come your way.

Even today, this song still holds up and will never fail to perk up a weary soul.

“Make Me Proud” by Drake ft. Nicki Minaj

Song year: 2011

The lyrics of Drake's “Make Me Proud” aren't the most sappy, but they portray a complex subject. It's a song about trying one's best in various endeavors, such as getting an education, and even if you fail, your efforts are worth pride.

Drake revealed in an interview with MTV that this song was explicitly addressed to various struggling women and was inspired by a conversation he had with an unnamed female.

“Brave” by Sara Bareilles

Song year: 2013

How does one become worthy of another's pride? By showing them, of course!

In a world where strength equals courage, bravery is the number one route to respect, and that's earned by expressing yourself and being someone considered “strong.” Sara Bareilles's empowering song “Brave” inspires us to never be afraid of letting others know who we are and reminds us that there will always be someone to be proud of us as long as we're brave.

“Proud of You” by Five Times August

Song year: 2019

Here's another lesser-known but incredible song: “Proud of You” by Five Times August. It's a simple yet heartwarming speech from a father to their child as they watch them grow up and flourish. 

The song's composition only consists of an acoustic guitar and the singer's voice, but that doesn't make it any less impactful and touching. If you're a parent, then this song will hit you hard.

“You're The Best” by Joe Esposito

Song year: 1984

Notice how the song is called “You're The Best” and not “I'm The Best”? Unlike many of the self-oriented songs of today (not that there's a problem with them), this one focuses on someone else, chatting about how they're number one and can't get kept down by anything.

It's a motivational song Mr. Miyagi would be proud of.

“Dear Daughter” by Halestorm

Song year: 2015

Here's one for the mothers and daughters of the world.

If you know Halestorm, you probably know them for their rough rock style. Well, every once in a while, they'll put out a softer track with a touching message.

Not only does “Dear Daughter” show pride in one's daughter, but it also relays some crucial life lessons every girl should learn.

“Dear Theodosia” by Leslie Odom Jr. and Lin-Manuel Miranda

Song year: 2015

Hailing from the hit Broadway musical Hamilton, “Dear Theodosia” was a melodic feature that contrasted the rest of the play's predominantly hip-hop style. 

It's a dual performance of two fathers singing about their newly born sons, of which they're incredibly proud and would do anything for. It's somewhat bittersweet in the context of the play but makes for an emotional standalone song nonetheless.