20 Best Songs About Pushing Through

Chelsea Cooke

There’s no doubt that life can be tough. We all face obstacles and challenges that we have to push through in order to succeed. That’s why it’s so important to have songs that remind us of the importance of pushing through, no matter what life throws our way. Here are 20 of the best songs about pushing through!

By the way, if you’re searching for songs about pushing through, you may also like songs about improving, songs about inspiration, songs about not giving up, songs about overcoming, and songs about perseverance.

Go the Distance – Roger Bart

Shades of Broadway - Roger Bart performs Go The Distance (Disney's Hercules)

The song “Go the Distance” from the movie Hercules is about pushing through and never giving up on your dreams. The lyrics talk about how there will be obstacles, but you can’t let them stop you from reaching your goals. The song is inspiring and motivates the listener to keep going even when things are tough. It is a great song to listen to when you need some motivation to keep going.

Fight Song – Rachel Platten

Rachel Platten - Fight Song (Official Video)

Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” is an empowerment anthem about continuing to fight even when the odds seem insurmountable. The song has an uplifting message of hope and perseverance, with lyrics that encourage the listener to keep going even when they feel like giving up. The song has been widely interpreted as a rallying cry for anyone who has ever felt like they were fighting a losing battle. “Fight Song” was originally released in 2015, but it gained new life in 2016 when it was used as the soundtrack to Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. The song’s message of hope and determination resonated with many Clinton supporters, and it quickly became an anthem for the campaign.

The Show Must Go On – Queen

Queen - The Show Must Go On (Official Video)

The Show Must Go On is a song by the British rock band Queen. The song was written by lead singer Freddie Mercury, and it was included on the band’s 1991 album Innuendo. The song is about pushing through despite challenging circumstances. In the lyrics, Mercury sings about how “the show must go on,” even when everything seems to be falling apart. He compares himself to a circus clown who puts on a brave face despite feeling scared inside. The song is an anthem for anyone who has ever faced adversity and had to keep going.

Rain on Me – Lady Gaga featuring Ariana Grande

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande - Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

On May 22, 2020, American singer Lady Gaga released the single “Rain on Me” with Ariana Grande. The song is about two women who are crying and have been through a lot together. They are sad but they know that they have to keep going. The song is a metaphor for the struggles that women face. It is also about how women support each other and how they can get through anything if they stick together. The song has been praised for its empowering message and its catchy beat. It has also been praised for its representation of queer women.

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Journey - Don't Stop Believin' (Live 1981: Escape Tour - 2022 HD Remaster)

Don’t Stop Believin’ is a song by American rock band Journey, originally released as the second single from their 1981 album, Escape. The song became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982 and went on to become one of the most popular songs of all time. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a young man who is trying to make his way in the world and overcome obstacles in order to achieve his dreams.

It’s My Life – Bon Jovi

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

It’s My Life is a song by American rock band Bon Jovi. It was released as the lead single from their seventh studio album, Crush (2000). The song is about taking charge of one’s life and not letting others control it. The lyrics are based on lead singer Jon Bon Jovi’s personal experiences, as he felt trapped and powerless in his youth. The song has been praised for its positive message and empowering tone. It has been described as an anthem for self-empowerment and independence. 

I’m Still Standing – Elton John

Elton John - I'm Still Standing

Released in 1983, “I’m Still Standing” is a song by English singer-songwriter Elton John. The track was written by Bernie Taupin and produced by Gus Dudgeon. It appeared on John’s seventeenth studio album, Too Low for Zero (1983). The song is an uptempo rock number that features synthesizers and guitars. The lyrics describe a person who has been through difficult times but has managed to “still stand”. The song was released as a single in the UK, where it peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart.

Eye of the Tiger – Survivor

Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

The lyrics to “Eye of the Tiger” were inspired by the Rocky movie franchise. The song is about pushing through adversity and never giving up. The opening line, “Rising up back on my feet,” is about getting back up after being knocked down. This is a theme that is repeated throughout the song, with lines like “I am the eye of the tiger / I am the hunter / I am the hunter.” The chorus of the song is also about never giving up, with the line “You’re going to hear me roar.” The song has been used by athletes and teams as motivation to never give up, even when the odds are against them. It is also a popular workout song because of its high energy and motivating message.

I Am Moana – Auli’i Cravalho and Rachel House

I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors) (From "Moana"/Sing-Along)

I Am Moana – Auli’i Cravalho and Rachel House is a song about overcoming obstacles. The lyrics tell the story of Moana, a young girl who sets out to find her purpose in life. Along the way, she faces many challenges, but she never gives up. The song is an inspiring anthem about following your dreams and never giving up. Even when the path is difficult, Moana knows that she can make it through anything if she just keeps moving forward. The message of the song is one of hope and determination, and it is sure to inspire anyone who hears it.

Journey to the Past – Liz Callaway

Journey to the Past (From The "Anastasia" Soundtrack)

Journey to the Past is a song from the 1997 animated film Anastasia. The song is sung by the character of Anya, who is voiced by Liz Callaway. Journey to the Past is a ballad about pushing through tough times and never giving up on yourself. The song begins with the lyrics, “Once upon a time there was a girl / Who had a dream to be a queen / And suddenly that dream comes true / It all happened in an instant.” These lyrics set up the story of Anastasia, who is an orphaned girl who discovers that she is the daughter of the last Tsar of Russia.

When You Believe – Whitney Houston feat. Mariah Carey

Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey - When You Believe (Official HD Video)

“When You Believe” is a song about hope and overcoming adversity. The lyrics tell the story of two young children who are faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to believe that anything is possible. The song ultimately speaks to the power of faith and the ability to overcome any obstacle. “When You Believe” is an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced hardship in their life. It is a reminder that, no matter how difficult things may seem, we should never give up on our dreams.

The Climb – Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus - The Climb

The Climb” is a song performed by American singer Miley Cyrus, for the 2009 film Hannah Montana: The Movie. The song was written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, and produced by John Shanks. It was released on February 10, 2009, as a digital single from the film’s soundtrack. The song is a power ballad with influences of country pop that lyrically speaks of overcoming obstacles. It is considered to be Cyrus’ best work to date. “The Climb” peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Cyrus’ first top ten single in the United States.

Survivor – Destiny’s Child

Destiny's Child - Survivor (Official Video)

Destiny’s Child released their song “Survivor” in 2001, at a time when the group was facing significant challenges. The song became an instant hit, and its message of resilience resonated with fans all over the world. “Survivor” is about pushing through difficult times, and it includes the lyrics “I’m a survivor / I’m not gonna give up / I’m not gonna stop / I’m gonna work harder.” These words are inspirational and empowering, and they continue to resonate with people who are facing difficulties in their own lives. The song is also a reminder that we all have the strength to overcome challenges, and that we should never give up on ourselves.

I’m a Believer – The Monkees

The song “I’m a Believer” by the Monkees is a song about pushing through tough times. The lyrics talk about how the protagonist has been through a lot in life, but he still believes in himself. Despite all the hardships he’s faced, he knows that he can make it through anything. The song is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like giving up. It’s a reminder that even when things are tough, we have to believe in ourselves. The Monkees were a hugely popular band in the 1960s, and this song was one of their biggest hits. It remains popular today because its message is as relevant as ever. In a world that can be full of negativity, “I’m a Believer” is a needed reminder to stay positive and push through tough times.

I Made It (Cash Money Heroes) – Kevin Rudolf

Kevin Rudolf - I Made It (Cash Money Heroes)

I Made It by Kevin Rudolf is a song about pushing through and overcoming obstacles. It starts with the lyrics “I hit the ground, I was six feet deep / I thought that I would never see the sun / But I got up, dusted off my knees / And I knew that I could make it through.” These lyrics talk about how life can knock you down, but it’s important to get back up and keep going. This is a message of resilience and determination; no matter what happens, you can always make it through. The song is uplifting and motivating, and its message is one that everyone can relate to.

Carry On – fun

Fun.: Carry On [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Written by fun. and produced by Greg Kurstin, “Carry On” is a song about perseverance in the face of adversity. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has been knocked down time and time again, but who continues to get back up and fight on. The song’s message of hope and resilience is mirror in its upbeat, pop-rock sound. “Carry On” was released as the first single from fun.’s second album, Some Nights. It was a commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and being certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. The song has also been praised by critics, with many calling it an anthem for our times.

Roar – Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s “Roar” is an empowering anthem about overcoming adversity and pushing through to achieve success. The song begins with a soft, almost delicate piano melody that sets the stage for Katy’s soaring vocals. However, as the song progresses, the instrumentation becomes more intense, culminating in a powerful chorus that features catchy horns and percussion. This build-up reflects Katy’s journey from a timid mouse to a confident lioness, and the lyrics reinforce this message of strength and determination. In the end, “Roar” is an uplifting song that celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.

Titanium – David Guetta ft. Sia

David Guetta - Titanium ft. Sia (Official Video)

“Titanium” is a song by French DJ and producer David Guetta, featuring vocals from Australian singer Sia. The song was released as the fifth single from Guetta’s album Nothing but the Beat on 8 October 2011. The song peaked at number one in Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, Spain and Switzerland. In the United Kingdom, the song peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart. “Titanium” was co-written by Guetta, Giorgio Tuinfort and Afrojack. According to Guetta, the song was originally written for American singer Mary J. Blige, but she later declined. 

Seize the Day – Ben Fankhauser

Seize The Day (Full Song With Dance Break)

Seize the day, also known as Carpe Diem, is a song from the Broadway musical Newsies. The song is about overcoming odds and never giving up hope. The song begins with the line “Seize the day, boys! Make your lives extraordinary!” This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which is about not giving up and continuing to fight even when the odds seem insurmountable. The song talks about how “the time is now” and that “the world is waiting for you.” This encourages the listener to take action and not wait for things to happen. The song ends with the line “newsies! Newsies never quit!” This sends a strong message of determination and perseverance.

Move Along – All-American Rejects

The All-American Rejects - Move Along (Official Music Video)

The All-American Rejects released “Move Along” in 2005 as the second single from their album of the same name. The song is an anthemic call to perseverance, with lead singer Tyson Ritter urging listeners to “keep on movin’.” The lyrics speak to the trials and tribulations that life can bring, and how it’s important to keep on going even when things are tough. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become a staple of motivational speeches and montages, serving as a reminder that it’s always possible to push through despite the odds.