Science is pretty clear about what constitutes an effective wake-up song. The secret recipe is positivity coupled with an infectious dance beat that builds and builds.
According to the experts at Spotify, even the most enthusiastic morning person can benefit from a great song to prepare them for the day ahead.
That’s literally why we put together our list of the best songs to wake up to!
We guarantee there’s at least one song on our list that will be the perfect song to help you face the challenging day ahead.
Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles
The song Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles is about hope and happiness. It’s a classic feel-good song from the absolute masters of pop music that will put you in a great mood.
Here comes the Sun (doo, doo, doo)
Here comes the Sun
It’s all right
It’s all right
The song is about looking forward to the future and feeling optimistic. The lyrics are about rising above the difficulties of life and finding happiness.
The song is a reminder that no matter what happens, the sun will always come out again.
It’s important to start the day with a happy tune and it doesn’t get much happier or more optimistic than this. Smile!
Give it a listen here.
Brave by Sara Bareilles
If your alarm clock is going to bring you mornings filled with trials, then you need to pop Brave on before you leave the house.
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I just wanna see you
I wanna see you be brave
It will give you all the strength you need for a day of modern life.
Give it a listen here.
Can’t Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake
If you want your alarm song to get you grooving then you can’t go wrong with a bit of Justin in the morning.
Oh, yeah, yeah
I can’t stop the, I can’t stop the
I can’t stop the, I can’t stop the
I can’t stop the feelin’
It’s simply a cheerful, positive tune that fills the world with good vibes.
Give it a listen here.
Lovely Day by Bill Withers
Lovely Day by Bill Withers is a feel-good song about enjoying the simple things in life.
The song encourages listeners to take a step back and appreciate all the good things they have, even on days that don’t seem so lovely. It’s a reminder to enjoy the moment and be grateful for what we have, instead of worrying about what we don’t have.
The lyrics are simple but profound, and the melody is infectious. Lovely Day has a message that everyone can relate to, which is probably why it’s one of Bill Withers’ most popular songs. It’s a song that makes you feel good every time you hear it, and that’s a pretty rare thing.
If you’re looking for a pick-me-up song, or just a reminder to appreciate the good things in life, Lovely Day by Bill Withers is a perfect choice. It’s sure to put a smile on your face and make your day just a little bit better.
Give it a listen here.
The Circle Of Life by Lion King OST
No need to fight your stepdad with this one, just feel the cool African vibes drift over you and know that you’re part of something bigger.
The Circle of Life has been described as a celebration of life.
The lyrics are about the cycle of life, which is continuous and goes on and on.
The music video is super soothing too.
Give it a listen here.
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
Shake It Off is more than just a catchy tune–it’s a mantra for anyone who wants to break free from the chains of self-doubt and negativity.
If you’re feeling down, or struggling to keep your head up, this song will give you the boost you need to keep going.
So shake it off, and don’t let anything hold you back!
There’s a Taylor tune for every occasion and this superb song encourages you to throw off other people’s negativity and enjoy your life.
It’s gonna be all right.
Give it a listen here.
Stronger by Kanye West (Ye)
“Stronger” is a motivational anthem about never giving up. Kanye West delivers an inspiring performance full of raw emotion.
The lyrics are uplifting and provide encouragement to keep going even when the going gets tough.
The song is perfect for anyone who needs a little boost of confidence.
When you need a jolt of adrenaline, you can’t go wrong with this song from Kanye.
Give it a listen here.
Best Day Of My Life by American Authors
If you’re looking for a song to start your day off on the right foot, look no further than Best Day of My Life by American Authors.
The positive lyrics and upbeat melody will put a smile on your face and get you moving in the right direction. Guaranteed.
Whether you’re facing a new challenge or just trying to get through another day, this song will inspire you to keep going and make the most of every single moment.
Turn up the volume! Get off your ass!
Enjoy the best day of your life!
Give it a listen here.
Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
Three Little Birds is a great choice to wake up to. It’s relentlessly cheerful and happy.
The simple positivity of the lyrics can help to set the tone for a good day.
The song is about three little birds that sit on a wire and sing to each other. The birds represent friends or loved ones who are always there for each other, unconditionally.
If you need a pick-me-up song to start your day, Three Little Birds is a great choice. It will put a smile on your face and help you to feel more positive about the day ahead.
Give it a listen here.
Wake Me Up by Avicii
There’s something about the upbeat tempo and happy lyrics of Avicii’s Wake Me Up that just makes it the perfect song to wake up to.
The song starts out with a catchy acoustic guitar riff, and then blends in some electronic elements without becoming too heavy.
Aloe Blacc provided the soulful vocals on the track, which only adds to the overall feel-good vibes.
Whether you’re waking up on a Monday morning or a Saturday afternoon, this song is sure to put a smile on your face and get you ready to start your day.
Give it a listen here.
Wake Up by Arcade Fire
If you’re looking for a song to help get you pumped up and motivated in the morning, look no further than Arcade Fire’s Wake Up.
The driving beat and inspiring lyrics make it the perfect song to start your day with. Trust us, you’ll be feeling ready to take on the world after listening to this one.
This confident Arcade Fire number is what our resident music psychologist recommends in the morning. Put it on repeat!
It strongly encourages you to be great. And that’s awesome.
Give it a listen here.
Walking On Sunshine by Katrina And The Waves
Walking On Sunshine is a song that always seems to put a smile on my face, no matter what kind of mood I’m in.
It’s one of those songs that makes you want to get up and dance, or at least tap your foot along with the beat. Go ahead!
The lyrics are also very relatable, especially the part about looking for the silver lining.
We’ve all been through tough times, and this song is a reminder that there’s always something good to focus on, no matter what. Amen.
Give it a listen here.
Alaska by Maggie Rogers
If you’re feeling down, or just need a little pick-me-up, then I suggest giving Maggie Rogers’ song Alaska a listen.
It’s the perfect way to start your day, thanks to its optimistic and upbeat vibe.
Rogers’ vocals are beautifully raw and honest, and the lyrics are sure to strike a chord with anyone who’s ever felt lost and searching for their place in the world.
Alaska is the perfect song for anyone who needs a reminder that there’s always hope, and that better days are on the horizon.
So go ahead and add it to your morning playlist, and enjoy the feeling of possibility that comes along with it.
Pharell Williams says this is his morning song and we love the quiet power in the lyrics. Face the day with confidence.
Give it a listen here.
This Too Shall Pass by OK Go
Mornings can be tough. But when you have a song like This Too Shall Pass by OK Go to help you through them, they’re a little bit better.
The song is about resilience, and how no matter what life throws at you, it will eventually pass. This reminder that the hard times won’t last forever is something that can help carry you through your day.
If you’re feeling down, or just need a little bit of motivation, give this song a listen. You might just find that it makes your day a little bit brighter.
It’s an earworm, so be prepared to take this with you throughout the day. If you need something catchy and resolutely positive, this is the morning song for you!
Give it a listen here.
Morning Has Broken by Cat Stevens
The song Morning Has Broken by Cat Stevens is a powerful song to ease into and start your day with.
The song speaks to the idea that each new day is an opportunity for a fresh start, and that no matter what may have happened in the past, we can always choose to move forward with hope and optimism.
The song’s empowering message is bolstered by its beautiful melody and Stevens’ emotive vocal performance.
Morning Has Broken is a song that never fails to inspire and uplift, and it’s no wonder that it’s become one of the most popular songs of all time.
This is a spiritual and beautiful song that calls to calm before the frenzy of the day. Keep it soft.
Give it a listen here.
Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve
Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve is an inspirational song about the struggles of everyday life.
It’s a reminder that although life can be difficult, there is always something to be grateful for.
The lyrics remind us to never give up and keep fighting because, in the end, the journey is worth it. This is a song that will inspire you to never give up on your dreams. Truth.
If the world’s getting you down, you don’t always want to hear a bundle of syrupy joy first thing in the morning. On those days opt for this delicate tune that promises commiseration and better days.
Give it a listen here.
Start Me Up by The Rolling Stones
If you need a little boost to get going in the morning, this song is sure to do the trick.
It’s a great way to start your day with some positive energy.
The Rolling Stones have been making music for decades, and this song is a prime example of their talent.
The lyrics are upbeat and motivating, and the melody will stay in your head all day. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up, this is the song for you.
Give it a listen here.
Mr. Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra
Mr. Blue Sky is a feel-good song that reflects optimism.
It’s about looking forward to the future and all of the possibilities that it holds.
The song is cheerful and upbeat, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face. It’s the perfect pick-me-up on a cloudy day.
Give it a listen here.
Shake It Out by Florence + The Machine
Florence + The Machine’s Shake It Out is the perfect song to start off a tough day.
It’s a powerful song with an upbeat tempo that can help you get your energy up and moving.
The lyrics are also inspiring, reminding you to shake off the bad and focus on the good.
If you’re looking for a song to get you motivated, Shake It Out is the perfect choice.
Shake it out with Florence. You will feel the strength flowing back into you.
Give it a listen here.
Beautiful Day by U2
There’s no better way to start the day than with U2’s Beautiful Day.
The song is upbeat and positive, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face.
It’s the perfect way to kick off a new day and get motivated to tackle whatever challenges come your way.
I highly recommend giving “Beautiful Day” a listen if you need a pick-me-up.
It’s one of my favorite songs to start the day with, and I’m ceertain it will become one of your favorites, too.
Have a beautiful day!
Give it a listen here.
Happy by Pharrell Williams
If you want to start your day off on the right foot, then you should definitely listen to Pharrell Williams’ song Happy.
It’s a feel-good song that will put a smile on your face and get you pumped up for the day ahead.
Plus, it’s scientifically proven to make you happier!
So what are you waiting for? Give it a listen!
Everyone feels happier when they listen to this addictive pop ditty. So, will you.
Give it a listen here.
Roar by Katy Perry
If you need to feel brave and bold today, then Roar. Do it now!
This is the song we’d play before we ask our boss for a raise.
It sounds wicked on a set of motorcycle speakers as you race away from your soul-sucking job as well.
Give it a listen here.
Viva La Vida by Coldplay
Viva La Vida by Coldplay is a great upbeat choice to start the day. The song’s driving beat and positive lyrics provide an instant mood boost, making it the perfect way to begin your morning routine.
If you’re looking for a song to help you get motivated for the day ahead, Viva La Vida is a great choice.
The song’s positive message and uplifting tone will help you feel ready to take on anything that comes your way.
Give it a listen here.
Beautiful Morning by Roachford
Britain’s Roachford has the right idea.
Celebrate the morning to this solid soul number. You’ll love it!
We listen to this on our favorite jazz headphones if the kids are still asleep.
Give it a listen here.
Beautiful Day with My Best Friend – Jimmy Eat World
This track by Jimmy Eat World is a feel-good anthem about appreciating the good in life.
The lyrics to Beautiful Day are simple and optimistic, and the melody is upbeat and catchy.
It’s the perfect song to listen to on a sunny day or when you need a boost of positive energy.
And Jimmy knows the right way to deal with a hard day, share it with your best friend. We couldn’t agree more.
Give it a listen here.
Final Notes
You don’t have to love mornings to get out of bed feeling good and with a smile on your face.
The songs above will have you waking with joy and singing the lyrics as you smile to yourself and your happiness becomes addictive to others around you too.
