31 Best Songs About Resilience

“Rise” by Calum Scott

Song Year: 2021

Like many of the songs featured on Callum Scott’s album Bridges, “Rise” incorporates a recurring theme of resilience and encourages people to follow their dreams and a spiritual tone. It’s about overcoming your hardships, regardless of how long it takes. The narrator emphasizes how he’ll rise above the odds but if he falls, he’ll try again.

Scott’s vocals and the song’s spiritual tone make this track stand out among other popular songs on this list.

“Stronger” by Sugababes

Song Year: 2002

Sugababes is no stranger to recording empowering songs about overcoming your struggles, and no song captures that essence like “Stronger” from their album Angels with Dirty Faces. The song takes the perspective of a woman who’s faced many hardships, but doesn’t give up trying to grow more resilient.

Although the narrator’s alone, she’s prepared to face any changes life throws her way. This down-tempo song’s pop and R&B-influenced sound give it a soulful, nostalgic vibe, enhanced by the vocalists’ beautiful harmonies.

“Get It Right Next Time” by Gerry Rafferty

Song Year: 1979

Best known as one of the founding members of Stealers Wheel, Gerry Rafferty has released many songs during his solo career following the group’s breakup. “Get It Right Next Time” is another resilience-centered tune about a man reassuring others that learning from your mistakes makes you stronger.

Although things might feel bad occasionally, there are many times you’ll get another chance. The song’s catchy bassline blends well with its guitar and saxophone instrumentation.

“The Only Way Is Up” by Yazz

Song Year: 1988

Yazz’s rendition of Otis Clay’s “The Only Way Is Up” is one of the most energetic songs in this rundown, ideal for any dance party. The lyrics emphasize the narrator’s feelings about staying positive when things look bleak. She tells her lover that things will improve if they stay resilient together.

The song’s synthesized arrangement perfectly reflects the late-1980s music era while retaining its original rendition's funky vibe.

“I Rise” by Etana

Song Year: 2015

Although resilience is a popular subject in many pop, rock, and country songs, this reggae track by Etana is a nice change of pace if you're looking for something different. The speaker has experienced several hardships but has learned to rise above them. Her peers wonder how she’s grown stronger after what she’s been through, but she states she has a long way to go.

“Resilience” by Rising Appalachia

Song Year: 2018

Rising Appalachia’s “Resilience” isn’t as bold and bombastic as other songs on this list, but its tranquil tone gives this folk song an identity that stands out. The lyrics depict the narrator as a resilient person who’s ready to face an ever-changing world full of chaos. The narrator knows that banding together with other resilient people will make their voices be heard.

Leah Song and Chloe Smith’s main inspiration for writing and recording this song stem from grassroots movements across several communities.

“Resilient” by Katy Perry

Song Year: 2020

Katy Perry is known for making plenty of inspirational songs, like “Resilient,” featured on her album Smile. It’s a song about remaining strong regardless of how much life puts you down. The lyrics incorporate the imagery of a flower growing in concrete, emphasizing Perry’s resilience when pushing through the hardest days.

“The Journey” by Lea Salonga

Song Year: 1993

One of the most heartfelt ballads performed by Lea Salonga on her self-titled album is “The Journey.” The narrator reflects on her experiences, from sadness to success. She might not always know where she’ll end up, but she stays strong no matter the result. She compares the resilience of following her dreams to the stars, not letting the darkness drive her away.

“Rubberband Girl” by Kate Bush

Song Year: 1993

Many songs about resilience incorporate dynamic imagery to emphasize someone’s flexibility during unforeseen circumstances. Kate Bush’s “Rubberband Girl” is a fun pop-rock anthem about a woman’s desire to go with the flow when things get tough.

From its catchy beat and Bush’s vibrant vocals to its poignant message about bouncing back, there’s plenty to enjoy when listening to this song.

“The Resilient” by Betraying the Martyrs

Song Year: 2017

French metalcore band Betraying the Martyrs’ “The Resilient” is another song worth listening to if you love music with a loud yet dramatic flair. The lyrics emphasize how no matter how life tries to break us down and make us fall, we can bounce back and remain resilient. The song takes a symphonic turn whenever the chorus kicks in, adding extra variety to the vocal performance.