You might have heard of a little song called “Happy” that came out recently. It has spawned viral videos of people dancing around the world, just passed 4 million in single sales and has held the top spot in the charts for weeks on end. Ring any bells? While it certainly is a catchy tune with a modern funk sound, there are plenty of songs with a similar message about feeling good. As the semester winds down and the end of the year assignments pile up, here are some other songs to help you stay motivated and celebrate your success.
1) “Life’s Been Good” by Joe Walsh
Walsh seemingly says it all in the title. With iconic guitar riffs behind him, he sings of the mansions and Maseratis that come with being a rock star. However, close listeners will realize his 1978 song is in fact a satirical commentary on the excesses of rock music culture. While I have mixed feelings on Eminem, fans of his will also recognize this track as the inspiration behind “So Far…” from his recent “The Marshall Mathers LP2.”
2) “Here Comes the Hotstepper (Heartical Mix)” by Ini Kamoze
If you don’t know this jam of a song from the 90s, you should. It’s the perfect song to walk into a room and feel like a champion. If you are ever in need of an entrance theme song for your sports career or future talk show appearance, make this reggae themed classic your pick.
3) “Good Life” by Kanye West & T-Pain
“And now my grandmama ain’t the only girl calling me baby.”
4) “Dancing in the Street” by Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
Sometimes nothing can beat that feel-good Motown sound. This song was first recorded in 1964 by Martha and The Vandellas and later covered by rock group Van Halen in 1982.
5) “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Arguably the quintessential “Life is Good” song, Armstrong invites us to step back, take a look around us and see the beauty and joy in everyday occurrences. What a wonderful world indeed.
6) “Good Vibrations” by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch
Mark Wahlberg? Check. 90s dance grooves? Check. What else do you need? When looking for a song that just screams, “I’m living life and loving it,” turn up the speakers loud and throw on this gem from 1991.
7) “Happy People” by R. Kelly
As you might have guessed by now, Mr. Robert Sylvester Kelly holds a special place in the heart of Jasper Jams. Smooth grooves abound in this track that highlights the popular R&B stepping dance. Move over Pharrell and make way for the man that knows how to truly commemorate bliss.
8) “Havin’ a Party” by Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes
An eclectic jam band out of New Jersey, the Jukes have worked closely with Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi over the years, among other notable artists. Here, they offer a rollicking hit packed with energy and soul that will be sure to get you singing along even if you have never heard it before.
9) “U Don’t Know” by Jay Z
You run the world — HOV knows it, I know it and it’s about time you embrace it. Sometimes there is nothing better than bombastic rap braggadocio to get you amped up and feeling on top of the globe.
10) “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
And you thought I was going to go with “We Are the Champions.”