The best songs about speaking up are those that tell their own stories.
There’s a song for the person who has always been too afraid to speak out, and another one for the person whose voice is finally being heard. There’s a song for when it seems like no one else will listen, and there’s also a song about what happens when we do speak up.
These are the 20 best songs about speaking up.
By the way, if you’re looking for more songs about speaking up, you may also want to check out songs about fear, songs about rebirth, songs about silence, and songs that tell a story.Speak Up – POP ETC
Speak Up is a song by the American band POP ETC. The song was released as a single on May 1, 2012, and it is included on the band’s debut album, Northern Lights. The song was written by the band’s frontman, Christopher Chu, and it is about the importance of speaking up for what you believe in. The lyrics encourage listeners to “speak up for love” and to “stand up for what’s right.” The song has a positive message, and it is uplifting and motivating. It is a great choice for anyone who needs a little boost of confidence.
Speak Up – Miquela
“Speak Up” is a song by Miquela. It was released on April 28, 2017, as the lead single from her self-titled debut EP. The song peaked at number one on the US Billboard Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales chart. “Speak Up” is an empowerment anthem with an uplifting message. The song encourages listeners to speak up and be themselves. The song has received positive reviews from critics, who praised its positive message and Miquela’s vocals. “Speak Up” is a feel-good anthem that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.
Don’t Speak – No Doubt
Don’t Speak is a song by the American rock band No Doubt. It was released in 1996 as the third single from their third studio album, Tragic Kingdom. The song became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Don’t Speak” is widely considered to be one of No Doubt’s signature songs.
The song was written by lead singer Gwen Stefani and bassist Tony Kanal as a response to their break-up. The lyrics capture the pain and hurt of a failed relationship.
Speak Now – Taylor Swift
The song “Speak Now” by Taylor Swift is a ballad about a young woman who regrets not speaking up for herself when she had the chance. The song is set in a slow, wistful tempo and features Swift’s signature country-pop sound. The lyrics tell the story of a relationship that ended before it had a chance to begin, and the narrator’s regret at not speaking up for herself. The first verse speaks of the moment when the relationship began to unravel, and the chorus asks the question “What if I’d said something sooner?” The second verse describes the narrator’s feelings of loneliness and isolation after the break-up, and the bridge reassures the listener that it is never too late to speak up for oneself.
Speak to Me – Pink Floyd
The song Speak to Me is a Pink Floyd classic that was released in 1973. The song is written by Roger Waters and is sung by David Gilmour. The song is about communication and how it is essential for humans to be able to communicate with each other. The lyrics talk about how the world is a noisy place and how people should take the time to listen to each other. The song also talks about how communication can help people understand each other better. The song is a great example of how music can be used to communicate a message. Pink Floyd is a band that is known for their songs that have deep meanings and messages. Speak to Me is a song that everyone can relate to and it is a great example of how music can be used.
Universally Speaking – Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Universally Speaking” is a song by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, released as the second single from their eighth studio album, By the Way. The song was written by frontman Anthony Kiedis and guitarist John Frusciante, and features a guitar solo from Frusciante. The lyrics of “Universally Speaking” are about the power of communication, and the ways that language can connect people from all corners of the globe. The song’s music video was directed by Joe Hahn, and features footage of the band performing in various international locations. “Universally Speaking” peaked at number two on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart, and its accompanying music video was nominated for a Grammy Award.
Speaking Terms – Snail Mail
“Speaking Terms” is a song by the American indie rock band Snail Mail, released as the lead single from their debut studio album Lush. The song was written by lead singer and guitarist Lindsey Jordan, and produced by Jake Aron. It was released on April 6, 2018, through Matador Records. “Speaking Terms” is a guitar-driven pop song with elements of dream pop and jangle pop. The song’s lyrics deal with the feeling of being trapped in a relationship that is no longer working. Jordan has said that the song is about “the point where you know something isn’t going to work out, but you keep trying because you care so much.”
Speak of the Devil – A Day to Remember
The song “Speak of the Devil” by A Day to Remember is a haunting and intense track that tells the story of a relationship gone wrong. The song starts with a soft, atmospheric guitar riff that sets the mood for the rest of the song. The lyrics paint a picture of a couple who is slowly being torn apart by their own demons. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, culminating in a powerful chorus that showcases the raw emotion of the situation. The song ends with a sense of hope, as the protagonist declares their intention to fight for their relationship. “Speak of the Devil” is a deeply moving song that explores the dark side of love and relationships.
Speak in Tongues – Placebo
The lyrics of the song “Speak in Tongues” by Placebo are full of religious and spiritual references. The title itself is a biblical reference, from the Book of Acts, in which the disciples of Jesus are said to have been filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in tongues. The lyrics of the song seem to be about a similar experience, in which the speaker is filled with a “holy fire” and feels compelled to speak in tongues. The song describes the speaker’s feeling of being possessed by a higher power, and how they are “not afraid” to let go and be taken over by this power. The lyrics also refer to other religious concepts such as sin and redemption, and how the speaker has been “freed”.
Speak in Rounds – Grizzly Bear
The song “Speak in Rounds” by Grizzly Bear is a haunting and beautiful track that has been praised by critics for its ethereal sound and delicate lyrics. The song opens with a simple guitar melody that is soon joined by the band’s trademark layers of harmonies and reverb-drenched guitars. The result is a sound that is both dreamlike and intimate, as if the listener is being transported to another world. The lyrics of “Speak in Rounds” are equally as mesmerizing, telling the story of a relationship that is both intense and fragile. The result is a song that is both deeply moving and effortlessly catchy, cementing Grizzly Bear’s status as one of the most talented indie bands around.
Speak – Bethany
Bethany’s song “Speak” is a haunting ballad with a powerful message. The lyrics tell the story of a young girl who has been sexually abused by her father. The song begins with the girl’s despairing cry of “Why doesn’t anybody ever speak?” But as she grows older, she finds the strength to speak out against her abuser. The chorus, which repeats the line “I will not be silent,” is an anthem of empowerment for all survivors of sexual abuse. The song’s beautiful melody and moving lyrics make it an important addition to the #MeToo movement.
Nobody Speak – DJ Shadow
DJ Shadow’s “Nobody Speak” is a song that features a sample of Trump’s voice from a speech in which he boasted about assaulting women. The decision to use Trump’s voice in the song was interpreted by some as a statement about the current political climate. The song also contains audio clips of Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and Nancy Pelosi. DJ Shadow has said that he did not intend for the song to be a political statement, but rather a commentary on the state of affairs in the world today. “Nobody Speak” peaked at number one on Billboard’s US Dance Club Songs chart, making it DJ Shadow’s first number-one single in the United States.
Speak Slow – Tegan and Sara
“Speak Slow” is a song by Canadian sisters Tegan and Sara, released as the second single from their seventh studio album, Heartthrob. The song was written by the duo with Greg Kurstin, who also produced the track. “Speak Slow” is a synth-pop and indie pop song withnlyrical themes of love and patience.The song received positive reviews from critics, with many praising its catchy chorus and production. Some critics also noted its similarity to the work of English singer Ellie Goulding. The song peaked at number eighteen on the Canadian Hot 100 and was certified gold by Music Canada.
Speak – Lloyiso
The song “Speak” by Lloyiso is a powerful ballad with a message of hope and resilience. The lyrics tell the story of a young woman who has been through some tough times, but who refuses to give up. Despite the setbacks she has faced, she remains determined to make her voice heard. The song is an uplifting anthem about speaking up for yourself and never giving up on your dreams. The melody is catchy and memorable, and the lyrics are inspiring and empowering. “Speak” is a moving song that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to be heard.
Brave – Sara Bareilles
The song “Brave” by Sara Bareilles is a song about overcoming fears and taking risks. The lyrics encourage the listener to be brave and to step out of their comfort zone. The song also talks about the importance of being yourself and not letting anyone else control your life. The message of the song is inspiring and empowering, and it is a great anthem for anyone who is facing challenges in their life. “Brave” is a song that will encourage you to face your fears and to live your life to the fullest.
Speak (feat. The Kid Laroi) – Internet Money
Unlike most songs that come out these days, “Speak” has a very raw and emotional feel to it. The lyrics are honest and relatable, and they provide a glimpse into the life of a struggling musician. The Kid Laroi’s vocals are haunting and soulful, and they perfectly complement the production. The beats are dark and atmospheric, and they create a sense of tension and unease. Overall, “Speak” is a powerful and moving song that deserves to be heard.
Speaking Gently – BADBADNOTGOOD
“Speaking Gently” is a song by the Toronto-based jazz-hip hop group BADBADNOTGOOD. It was released as the lead single from their 2016 album IV. The song features vocals from Sam Herring of the electronic band Future Islands. “Speaking Gently” received favorable reviews from music critics. The song peaked at number 37 on Billboard’s Twitter Emerging Artists chart. The music video for “Speaking Gently” was directed by Martin C. Pariseau and released on April 26, 2016. It features the band performing in a dimly lit room intercut with footage of animals in nature.
Speak – Godsmack
Speak is a song by the American rock band Godsmack. It was released in August 2000 as the lead single from their second album, Awake. The song quickly rose to popularity, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the band’s most well-known songs. The track was written by vocalist Sully Erna and guitarist Tony Rombola, and it features a heavy metal sound with elements of hard rock and alternative metal. The lyrics tell the story of a person who has been wronged and is seeking revenge. The song’s music video, which was directed by Patric Ullaeus, features the band performing in a dilapidated warehouse.
Speak for Me – Cat Power
Cat Power’s song “Speak for Me” is a haunting and beautiful ballad that speaks to the feeling of being lost and alone. The lyrics are simple but powerful, and the song’s emotive singer Chan Marshall delivers them with heartbreaking honesty. The song starts with the lyrics “In my dreams I wasn’t good enough / In my dreams I failed you,” and from there it goes on to explore themes of guilt, regret, and redemption. The song is stripped down, with only a piano accompanying Marshall’s voice, but this only serves to highlight the emotion in her performance. “Speak for Me” is a stunning example of Cat Power’s skill as a songwriter and singer, and it is a track that will stay with you long.
Silence Speaks – While She Sleeps
The song Silence Speaks by While She Sleeps is a powerful ballad with a strong message. The lyrics talk about the importance of using your voice to speak up for what you believe in, even when it feels like nobody is listening. The song starts with a soft, almost ethereal melody that gradually builds in intensity as the lyrics become more impassioned. The chorus is particularly catchy, with the band repeating the phrase “silence speaks” over a soaring guitar riff. The song then drops back down to a softer section, before eventually finishing on a powerful note. Overall, Silence Speaks is an anthemic song that packs a huge emotional punch.
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