20 Best Songs About Effort

Nina Hampson

There’s no question that music can be a powerful motivator. It has the ability to stir our emotions and get us moving. And when it comes to effort, there are plenty of songs that can inspire us to work harder and achieve our goals. Here are 20 of the best!

By the way, if you’re searching for more like songs about effort, check out our articles on songs about growth, songs about haters, songs about inspiration, songs about news, and songs about not giving up.

Stronger – Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) [Official Video]

The song “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson is all about effort. The lyrics talk about how taking the time and putting in the work to get stronger, both mentally and physically, is always worth it in the end. The song is motivating and empowering, urging listeners to never give up on themselves. It’s a great song for anyone who needs a little boost of confidence or motivation. And it’s especially relatable for anyone who has ever struggled with their mental or physical health. So, whether you’re facing a difficult challenge or just need a little pick-me-up, give “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson a listen. You might just find the inspiration you need to keep going.

Don’t Stop Believing – Journey

Journey - Don't Stop Believin' (Official Audio)

One of the most popular songs of all time, “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey is an anthem about never giving up on your dreams. The song was originally released in 1981, but it gained a new life in 2009 when it was used in the TV show “Glee.” The song has since been covered by many artists and has been used in a number of movies and TV shows. Despite its success, the song is actually fairly simple, with just four chords and a repeating melody. However, it’s the lyrics that really make the song special. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is struggling to make his way in the world. He’s faced with adversity, but he never gives up hope.

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell - Ain't No Mountain High Enough (Lyric Video)

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is a song co-written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson. The song was first recorded by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and became a huge hit, reaching the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has since been covered by many artists, including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Whitney Houston. The lyrics of the song are about the strength of love, and how it can overcome any obstacle. The opening line, “Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough,” establishes this theme and the rest of the song details how love can conquer all.

Save the World – Swedish House Mafia

Swedish House Mafia - Save The World (Official Video)

 “Save the World” is a   song by Swedish House Mafia that was released as a single in 2011. The song peaked at number ten on the UK Singles Chart and received positive reviews from music critics. The song is about making an effort to save the world, even though it seems like an impossible task. Swedish House Mafia has said that the song is meant to inspire people to never give up and to always keep fighting for what they believe in.

Skyscraper – Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper (Official Video)

Skyscraper is a song by American singer Demi Lovato. The song was released on July 12, 2011, as the lead single from her third studio album Unbroken (2011). The song was written by Toby Gad, Lindy Robbins, and Priscilla Renea, and produced by Gad. It is a mid-tempo piano-driven ballad with inspirational lyrics about Lovato’s personal struggles and triumphs. Skyscraper received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its lyrical content and Lovato’s vocal performance. The song became one of Lovato’s biggest hits to date, reaching the top ten in several countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand. In the United States, the song peaked at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Get up Stand Up – Bob Marley

Bob Marley - Get Up, Stand Up (Live at Munich, 1980)

Get up Stand Up is a song written by Bob Marley and released in 1973. The song is about taking action and standing up for what you believe in, even when the odds are against you. The lyrics encourage listeners to stay strong and keep fighting, even when times are tough. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, and it continues to inspire people to stand up for their beliefs. Get up Stand Up is an important song because it reminds us that we all have the power to make a difference. It is a call to action that can be applied to any situation, and it reminds us that our voices can make a difference. Get up Stand Up is a timeless song that will continue to inspire generations to come.

You’re Beautiful – James Blunt

James Blunt - You're Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful” is a song about seeing someone for who they truly are, beyond their physical appearance. The lyrics describe a chance encounter with a stranger on the subway, and how the singer is immediately struck by the person’s inner beauty. Though the person is “messy” and “smiling with a mouth full of food,” the singer is still drawn to them. The song goes on to express the idea that effortless beauty is the most powerful kind. It’s a message that resonates with many people, which is likely one of the reasons why the song was such a huge hit when it was released in 2005. In a world that often places so much emphasis on superficial things, “You’re Beautiful” is a reminder that what truly matters is what’s inside.

It’s My Life – Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi - It's My Life (Official Music Video)

The song “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi is a song about effort. The lyrics tell the story of a person who is tired of their life and is willing to put in the hard work to change it. The song is an encouragement to people to never give up on themselves and to always keep fighting for what they want. The song is also a reminder that even when things are tough, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. The message of the song is one of perseverance and hope, and it is an excellent motivator for anyone who is facing challenges in their life.

Beautiful – Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera - Beautiful (Official HD Video)

The song “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera is a song about overcoming self-doubt and feeling comfortable in one’s own skin. The song talks about how everyone is beautiful in their own way and that they should not let anyone else tell them otherwise. The lyrics are inspiring and remind the listener that they are unique and special. The song is upbeat and has a positive message, which makes it perfect for listening to when working hard or facing a difficult situation. “Beautiful” is a song that everyone can relate to, and it is sure to put a smile on your face.

Tubthumping – Chumbawumba

Chumbawamba - Tubthumping

Tubthumping is a song by the British band Chumbawamba. The song was released as a single in 1997 and became an international hit, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and number six on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is about overcoming adversity, with the chorus repeating the lyric “I get knocked down, but I get up again.” The song has been used in a number of popular culture references, including being featured in the 2002 film Bend It Like Beckham and being used as part of Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. Tubthumping is an anthem for anyone who has ever struggled but refused to stay down. It is a reminder that no matter how many times we are knocked down, we can always get back up again.

Fight Song – Rachel Platten

Rachel Platten - Fight Song (Official Video)

The song Fight Song by Rachel Platten is a song about making an effort. The lyrics talk about how the singer is going to keep fighting, even when it feels like she can’t. The song is motivational, and it is about never giving up. The song has a positive message, and it is about believing in yourself. The song is also about being scared, but still fighting for what you want. The song is about not giving up, even when it feels like you can’t win. The song is about never giving up on your dreams, and never giving up on yourself. The song is inspirational and it will remind you that you can fight for what you want, even when it feels like you can’t win.

You Gotta Be – Des Ree

Des'ree - You Gotta Be ('99 Mix) [Video]

You Gotta Be is a song by singer Des Ree. The song is about the importance of effort. The lyrics talk about how no one is going to hand you success, you have to go out and get it yourself. The song is upbeat and motivating, with a strong message that anyone can achieve their goals if they are willing to work for it. You Gotta Be was a huge hit when it was released, and its message of effort and perseverance has resonated with people all over the world. The song remains an inspiration to many and is a reminder that anyone can achieve their dreams if they are willing to put in the hard work.

We Are The Champions – Queen

Queen - We Are The Champions (Live)

“We Are the Champions” is a song by the British rock band Queen, first released on their 1977 album News of the World. The song was written by lead singer Freddie Mercury and composed by him and Brian May. The song is an anthemic rock anthem, and its lyrics are about victory and success. The song has been adopted as an anthem by many sports teams, most notably the Los Angeles Kings, who played it after winning the Stanley Cup in 2012 and 2014. In October 2018, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. 

Not Afraid – Eminem

Eminem - Not Afraid

In the song “Not Afraid” by Eminem, the rapper discusses his own personal journey and how the effort has helped him overcome difficult obstacles. He talks about how he was once “caught in a downward spiral” but fought his way back and is now “not afraid to take a stand.” He also mentions how effort is something that everyone can relate to, regardless of their personal circumstances. Ultimately, the song is an inspirational anthem about determinedly moving forward despite challenges. It is a reminder that even when things seem hopeless, putting in the hard work can make all the difference. In this way, the song provides encouragement and motivation for anyone who is facing adversity.

Just Like Fire – Pink

P!nk - Just Like Fire (From"Alice Through The Looking Glass" - Official Video)

“Just Like Fire” is a song recorded by American singer Pink for the soundtrack to the 2016 film Alice Through the Looking Glass. Written by Pink, Oscar Holter, Max Martin, and Shellback, the track was released on April 8, 2016, as the lead single from the soundtrack. The song’s title and lyrics surround the theme of effort, with Pink singing about facing down haters and working hard to achieve her dreams. The song received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its production and commercial appeal. In the United States, “Just Like Fire” peaked at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Where Is The Love? – Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas - Where Is The Love? (Official Music Video)

Where is the love? is a song by Black Eyed Peas that was released in 2003. The song is about the need for effort in love and relationships. It is a call to arms for people to put more effort into love, both in their personal relationships and in the world at large. The lyrics express a deep yearning for love and understanding, and they plead for people to wake up and make an effort to see things from others’ perspectives. The song was nominated for Grammys and received critical acclaim. It has since been used in various political campaigns and has been covered by numerous artists. What makes Where is the Love? so powerful is its ability to tap into our universal desire for connection and its call for us to do better in our effort to love one another.

Human – Christina Perri

Christina Perri - Human [Official Video]

The song “Human” by Christina Perri is a song about effort. In the lyrics, Perri sings about how we are all just human and how we all make mistakes. She talks about how we try so hard to be perfect, but sometimes we just can’t help it. The song is about how even though we mess up, we should never give up on ourselves. We should always keep trying and never give up. The song is also about how important it is to love ourselves and others. It talks about how we need to be kind to each other and understand that everyone is going through something. The song is a reminder that even though we are all human, we should never give up on ourselves or each other. We should always keep trying and never give up.

Lust For Life – Iggy Pop

Iggy Pop - Lust For Life

Iggy Pop’s “Lust for Life” is a song about making the most of life and putting in the effort to achieve one’s dreams. The song begins with the lines “I’m ready, I’m ready for action / I’m ready, I’m ready for anything.” These lyrics set the tone for the rest of the song, which is about taking risks and working hard to achieve success. The chorus echoes the sentiment “lust for life/lust for life.” The repeated chorus emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity and giving everything one has in order to achieve their goals. “Lust for Life” is an uplifting song that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams with determination and passion.

Remember The Name – Fort Minor

Remember The Name (Official Video) - Fort Minor

The song “Remember The Name” by Fort Minor is a song about effort. The lyrics talk about how success takes time and hard work, and how people should not give up even when things are tough. The song is motivating and inspirational, and it is a great reminder that anyone can achieve their goals if they are willing to put in the effort. The song is also catchy and easy to remember, which makes it perfect for getting people pumped up for a big event or project. Whether you are working on a school assignment or training for a marathon, this song is sure to get you motivated to put in your best effort.

What A Feeling – Irene Cara

Irene Cara - Flashdance What A Feeling (Official Music Video)

The song “What A Feeling” by Irene Cara is about putting forth the effort to achieve your dreams. The lyrics talk about how when you work hard and never give up, you can achieve anything you want. The song is motivating and inspiring, and it is a great way to get pumped up for a workout or any other activity where you need to put forth a lot of effort. The song is also a great reminder that no matter how difficult something may seem if you keep pushing yourself, you will eventually succeed. So next time you’re feeling discouraged, remember the words “What A Feeling” and let them give you the motivation to keep going.