30 Greatest Songs About Women Empowerment Ever Written

songs-about-women-empowermentIn a world where voices often seek to inspire change and uplift, music has always played a pivotal role in shaping cultural narratives and empowering individuals.This article explores a collection of powerful anthems that celebrate strength, resilience, and independence.

These songs, spanning various genres and eras, highlight the importance of self-worth, equality, and the unyielding spirit of women. From classic hits that broke barriers to contemporary tracks that continue to inspire, this article delves into the melodies and lyrics that champion women’s empowerment, providing a soundtrack for those who strive to make a difference and embrace their true selves.

Join us as we celebrate the music that empowers women and encourages them to rise, thrive, and lead with confidence.

30 Most Famous Songs About Women Empowerment – A Female Playlist

Contents

These songs celebrate strength, independence, and self-empowerment, offering inspiration and motivation to women everywhere.

Here’s a list of 30 songs about women empowerment:

#1 “Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé

“Run the World (Girls),” released in 2011, is an anthem of female empowerment by Beyoncé. The song’s lyrics celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and leadership, with lines like “Who run the world? Girls!” Beyoncé’s powerful vocals and the song’s energetic beat create an infectious and motivational atmosphere.

The track’s bold and unapologetic message encourages women to take charge and assert their power in all aspects of life. Accompanied by a dynamic music video featuring commanding dance routines, “Run the World (Girls)” has become an iconic anthem, inspiring women to embrace their potential and lead with confidence.

#2 “Respect” by Aretha Franklin

“Respect,” released in 1967 by Aretha Franklin, is a timeless song that has become a powerful anthem for both women’s rights and civil rights movements. Originally written and recorded by Otis Redding, Franklin’s version redefined the song with a bold demand for respect and recognition.

With lines like “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me,” the song asserts the importance of mutual respect in personal and professional relationships. Franklin’s soulful and commanding vocals, along with the song’s catchy and assertive melody, create a lasting impact. “Respect” continues to resonate as a rallying cry for equality and empowerment.

#3 “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys

“Girl on Fire,” released in 2012 by Alicia Keys, is an empowering anthem that celebrates women’s strength, independence, and resilience. The lyrics describe a woman who is unstoppable and unafraid to pursue her dreams, with lines like “She’s just a girl, and she’s on fire.”

Keys’ powerful and soulful vocals, combined with the song’s uplifting melody, create an inspiring and motivational atmosphere. “Girl on Fire” encourages women to embrace their inner strength and shine brightly in the face of challenges. The song has become a symbol of empowerment and confidence, resonating with listeners around the world.

#4 “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

“Fight Song,” released in 2015 by Rachel Platten, is a powerful and inspirational track that encourages resilience and perseverance. The lyrics reflect Platten’s personal struggles and determination to overcome obstacles, with lines like “This is my fight song, take back my life song, prove I’m alright song.”

The song’s uplifting melody and Platten’s emotive vocals create a sense of empowerment and hope. “Fight Song” has resonated with many listeners who find strength and motivation in its message of self-empowerment and resilience. It has become an anthem for those facing challenges, inspiring them to keep fighting and believing in themselves.

#5 “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain

“Man! I Feel Like a Woman!,” released in 1997 by Shania Twain, is a fun and energetic country-pop song that celebrates femininity and independence. The lyrics express a woman’s joy in embracing her womanhood and living life on her terms, with lines like “The best thing about being a woman is the prerogative to have a little fun.”

Twain’s spirited vocals and the song’s catchy melody create an infectious and celebratory atmosphere. “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” has become an anthem for women’s empowerment, encouraging women to feel confident, have fun, and take pride in their identity.

#6 “Roar” by Katy Perry

“Roar,” released in 2013 by Katy Perry, is an empowering pop anthem that emphasizes self-confidence and finding one’s voice. The lyrics tell the story of overcoming adversity and reclaiming personal strength, with lines like “I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, dancing through the fire, ’cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar.”

Perry’s powerful vocals and the song’s dynamic melody create a motivating and uplifting atmosphere. “Roar” encourages listeners to stand up for themselves and embrace their inner strength, making it a popular anthem for empowerment and resilience.

#7 “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson

“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You),” released in 2011 by Kelly Clarkson, is an empowering anthem about resilience and personal growth. The song’s lyrics, inspired by the famous Nietzsche quote, emphasize overcoming challenges and emerging stronger, with lines like “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, stand a little taller.”

Clarkson’s powerful vocals and the song’s upbeat, driving rhythm create an energizing and motivating atmosphere. “Stronger” resonates with listeners who have faced adversity, encouraging them to view hardships as opportunities for growth and empowerment. The song’s message of resilience and inner strength has made it a lasting favorite.

#8 “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan / Whitney Houston

“I’m Every Woman,” originally released in 1978 by Chaka Khan and later covered by Whitney Houston in 1993, is a timeless anthem celebrating the versatility and strength of women. The lyrics highlight the multifaceted nature of women and their ability to handle various roles with grace and power, with lines like “I’m every woman, it’s all in me.”

Both Khan’s and Houston’s renditions feature powerful vocals and vibrant, danceable melodies that create a joyful and celebratory atmosphere. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its universal message of female empowerment and its uplifting tribute to the capabilities of women.

#9 “Confident” by Demi Lovato

“Confident,” released in 2015 by Demi Lovato, is a bold pop anthem that promotes self-assurance and empowerment. The lyrics encourage embracing one’s strengths and not shying away from confidence, with lines like “What’s wrong with being confident?”

Lovato’s strong, assertive vocals and the song’s powerful beat create an empowering and fearless vibe. “Confident” challenges societal norms that often discourage women from being outspoken and self-assured. The song has become a motivational anthem for those striving to embrace their true selves and confidently take on the world.

#10 “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child

“Survivor,” released in 2001 by Destiny’s Child, is an empowering anthem about resilience and overcoming adversity. The lyrics reflect the group’s personal experiences and determination to rise above challenges, with lines like “I’m a survivor, I’m not gonna give up, I’m not gonna stop, I’m gonna work harder.”

Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams deliver strong, passionate vocals, and the song’s upbeat tempo and powerful message create a motivating and triumphant atmosphere. “Survivor” resonates with listeners who have faced hardships, inspiring them to persevere and thrive despite obstacles.

#11 “Just a Girl” by No Doubt

“Just a Girl,” released in 1995 by No Doubt, is a punk rock song that addresses the limitations and stereotypes imposed on women. The lyrics, written by lead singer Gwen Stefani, sarcastically highlight the constraints of traditional gender roles, with lines like “I’m just a girl, all pretty and petite, so don’t let me have any rights.”

Stefani’s energetic and rebellious vocals, combined with the song’s catchy, driving rhythm, create a defiant and empowering atmosphere. “Just a Girl” challenges societal expectations and encourages women to assert their independence and break free from restrictive norms.

#12 “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

“Unwritten,” released in 2004 by Natasha Bedingfield, is an uplifting pop song about self-discovery and embracing life’s possibilities. The lyrics encourage living authentically and writing one’s own story, with lines like “Live your life with arms wide open, today is where your book begins, the rest is still unwritten.”

Bedingfield’s warm, expressive vocals and the song’s inspirational melody create a hopeful and empowering atmosphere. “Unwritten” resonates with listeners who seek to take control of their destinies and approach life with optimism and courage. The song’s message of empowerment and self-actualization has made it a timeless favorite.

#13 “Brave” by Sara Bareilles

“Brave,” released in 2013 by Sara Bareilles, is an empowering anthem that encourages people to speak their truth and stand up for themselves. The lyrics inspire listeners to overcome fear and self-doubt, with lines like “Say what you wanna say and let the words fall out, honestly, I wanna see you be brave.”

Bareilles’ heartfelt vocals and the song’s upbeat, piano-driven melody create a motivating and uplifting atmosphere. “Brave” resonates with anyone who has struggled to find their voice, providing a powerful message of courage and authenticity. The song’s message of self-expression and empowerment has made it a popular choice for those seeking inspiration to be true to themselves.

#14 “Express Yourself” by Madonna

“Express Yourself,” released in 1989 by Madonna, is a dance-pop anthem that advocates for self-expression and independence, particularly for women in relationships. The lyrics encourage women to demand respect and not settle for anything less than what they deserve, with lines like “Don’t go for second best, baby, put your love to the test.”

Madonna’s commanding vocals and the song’s energetic beat create a dynamic and empowering vibe. “Express Yourself” emphasizes the importance of self-worth and assertiveness, making it a timeless anthem for women’s empowerment and self-respect. The song’s bold message continues to inspire listeners to take control of their lives and relationships.

#15 “No Scrubs” by TLC

“No Scrubs,” released in 1999 by TLC, is a hip-hop and R&B anthem that promotes self-respect and independence. The lyrics dismiss men who don’t meet their standards and refuse to settle for less, with lines like “No, I don’t want no scrub, a scrub is a guy that can’t get no love from me.”

The group’s confident vocals and the song’s catchy, assertive melody create a powerful and empowering atmosphere. “No Scrubs” encourages women to maintain high standards in their relationships and not compromise their self-worth. The song’s straightforward and unapologetic message has made it a lasting anthem of empowerment.

#16 “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

“The Climb,” released in 2009 by Miley Cyrus, is a powerful ballad that focuses on perseverance and the journey toward achieving one’s dreams. The lyrics emphasize the importance of facing challenges and continuing to strive for success, with lines like “It’s not about how fast I get there, it’s not about what’s waiting on the other side, it’s the climb.”

Cyrus’ emotive vocals and the song’s uplifting melody create an inspiring and motivational atmosphere. “The Climb” resonates with listeners who are pursuing their goals and dreams, encouraging them to embrace the journey and remain resilient in the face of obstacles.

#17 “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett

“Bad Reputation,” released in 1981 by Joan Jett, is a rebellious rock anthem that challenges societal expectations and celebrates individuality. The lyrics convey a defiant attitude toward conventional norms, with lines like “I don’t give a damn ’bout my bad reputation, you’re living in the past, it’s a new generation.”

Jett’s raw, powerful vocals and the song’s driving guitar riffs create an intense and empowering atmosphere. “Bad Reputation” encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and reject the pressures to conform. The song’s unapologetic stance on personal freedom and authenticity has made it a lasting symbol of empowerment and rebellion.

#18 “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga

“Born This Way,” released in 2011 by Lady Gaga, is a dance-pop anthem that celebrates individuality, self-acceptance, and diversity. The lyrics promote a message of unconditional self-love and inclusivity, with lines like “I’m beautiful in my way ’cause God makes no mistakes, I’m on the right track, baby, I was born this way.”

Lady Gaga’s powerful vocals and the song’s energetic beat create a celebratory and empowering atmosphere. “Born This Way” encourages listeners to embrace their identities and love themselves as they are. The song’s message of acceptance and empowerment has resonated widely, becoming an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community and anyone seeking affirmation of their unique self-worth.

#19 “Superwoman” by Alicia Keys

“Superwoman,” released in 2008 by Alicia Keys, is a soulful anthem that celebrates the strength, resilience, and perseverance of women. The lyrics acknowledge the challenges women face while affirming their ability to overcome them, with lines like “Even when I’m a mess, I still put on a vest with an S on my chest.”

Keys’ powerful and emotive vocals, combined with the song’s uplifting melody, create an inspiring and empowering atmosphere. “Superwoman” serves as a tribute to the everyday heroism of women, encouraging them to recognize their inner strength and continue striving for their goals despite obstacles.

#20 “Independent Women” by Destiny’s Child

“Independent Women,” released in 2000 by Destiny’s Child, is a fierce anthem that celebrates women’s financial independence and self-sufficiency. The lyrics emphasize the importance of being self-reliant and not depending on others for validation or support, with lines like “The shoes on my feet, I bought it, the clothes I’m wearing, I bought it.”

Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams deliver confident and assertive vocals, and the song’s catchy beat reinforces its empowering message. “Independent Women” encourages women to take pride in their accomplishments and maintain their independence, making it a timeless anthem for female empowerment.

#21 “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore

“You Don’t Own Me,” released in 1963 by Lesley Gore, is a pioneering anthem of female independence and self-assertion. The lyrics challenge traditional gender roles and demand respect and autonomy, with lines like “You don’t own me, I’m not just one of your many toys.” Gore’s powerful and assertive vocals, coupled with the song’s dramatic melody, create a bold and defiant atmosphere.

“You Don’t Own Me” was groundbreaking for its time and continues to resonate as a powerful statement of women’s rights and personal freedom. The song’s enduring message of independence and empowerment has made it a classic.

#22 “Titanium” by David Guetta ft. Sia

“Titanium,” released in 2011 by David Guetta featuring Sia, is an empowering electronic dance track that celebrates resilience and inner strength. The lyrics emphasize the ability to withstand challenges and criticism, with lines like “You shoot me down, but I won’t fall, I am titanium.”

Sia’s soaring vocals and the song’s powerful beat create an intense and uplifting atmosphere. “Titanium” encourages listeners to recognize their strength and remain steadfast in the face of adversity. The song’s message of resilience and empowerment has resonated widely, making it a favorite for those seeking motivation and inspiration.

#23 “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

“Shake It Off,” released in 2014 by Taylor Swift, is a fun and upbeat pop song that promotes self-confidence and resilience in the face of negativity. The lyrics encourage listeners to ignore criticism and focus on their own happiness, with lines like “The haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate, but I’m just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake, I shake it off.”

Swift’s energetic vocals and the song’s catchy melody create a lively and empowering atmosphere. “Shake It Off” serves as a reminder to let go of negativity and embrace a positive, confident mindset, making it a feel-good anthem for empowerment.

#24 “Good as Hell” by Lizzo

“Good as Hell,” released in 2016 by Lizzo, is a confident and uplifting anthem that encourages self-love and empowerment. The lyrics celebrate self-worth and resilience, with lines like “If he don’t love you anymore, just walk your fine ass out the door.” Lizzo’s bold and charismatic vocals, along with the song’s infectious melody, create a celebratory and empowering atmosphere.

“Good as Hell” resonates with listeners who have faced challenges in relationships or life, providing a boost of confidence and a reminder of their own value. The song’s message of self-empowerment and positivity has made it a modern favorite.

#25 “Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya

“Sit Still, Look Pretty,” released in 2016 by Daya, is a pop anthem that challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes. The lyrics reject the notion that women should be passive and focus solely on their appearance, with lines like “This queen don’t need a king.” Daya’s strong and assertive vocals, coupled with the song’s catchy beat, create an empowering and rebellious atmosphere.

“Sit Still, Look Pretty” encourages women to pursue their own dreams and ambitions, rather than conforming to societal expectations. The song’s message of independence and self-determination resonates with listeners, making it a powerful anthem for female empowerment.

#26 “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera

“Beautiful,” released in 2002 by Christina Aguilera, is a powerful ballad that promotes self-acceptance and inner beauty. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their true selves and ignore external judgments, with lines like “You are beautiful no matter what they say, words can’t bring you down.”

Aguilera’s emotive and soulful vocals, combined with the song’s poignant melody, create an uplifting and supportive atmosphere. “Beautiful” resonates with those struggling with self-esteem and body image, offering a reassuring message of self-worth and empowerment. The song’s universal appeal and timeless message have made it an enduring anthem for self-empowerment.

#27 “Can’t Hold Us Down” by Christina Aguilera ft. Lil’ Kim

“Can’t Hold Us Down,” released in 2003 by Christina Aguilera featuring Lil’ Kim, is a bold and assertive anthem that addresses gender double standards and the importance of female empowerment. The lyrics call out societal expectations and demand respect, with lines like “Call me a bitch ’cause I speak what’s on my mind, guess it’s easier for you to swallow if I sat and smiled.”

Aguilera’s powerful vocals and Lil’ Kim’s fierce rap verses create a dynamic and empowering atmosphere. “Can’t Hold Us Down” encourages women to speak out against injustice and stand up for themselves, making it a strong anthem for female empowerment.

#28 “Q.U.E.E.N.” by Janelle Monáe ft. Erykah Badu

“Q.U.E.E.N.,” released in 2013 by Janelle Monáe featuring Erykah Badu, is a funky, empowering anthem that celebrates individuality, self-expression, and social justice. The lyrics address themes of identity, acceptance, and resistance against societal norms, with lines like “Even if it makes others uncomfortable, I will love who I am.”

Monáe’s and Badu’s confident vocals, along with the song’s eclectic and infectious beat, create a bold and empowering atmosphere. “Q.U.E.E.N.” encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness and challenge the status quo, making it a powerful anthem for empowerment and self-acceptance.

#29 “Ain’t Your Mama” by Jennifer Lopez

“Ain’t Your Mama,” released in 2016 by Jennifer Lopez, is a catchy pop anthem that addresses gender roles and expectations in relationships. The lyrics assert a woman’s refusal to take on traditional domestic roles without reciprocation, with lines like “I ain’t gon’ be cooking all day, I ain’t your mama.”

Lopez’s strong and assertive vocals, combined with the song’s upbeat and infectious melody, create a fun and empowering atmosphere. “Ain’t Your Mama” encourages women to demand equality and fairness in their relationships, making it a modern anthem for independence and self-respect.

#30 “We R Who We R” by Kesha

“We R Who We R,” released in 2010 by Kesha, is an energetic pop anthem that celebrates individuality and self-confidence. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their true selves and live authentically, with lines like “Tonight we’re going hard, just like the world is ours, we’re tearing it apart.”

Kesha’s bold and spirited vocals, along with the song’s danceable beat, create a lively and empowering atmosphere. “We R Who We R” resonates with those seeking to express their uniqueness and confidence, making it a powerful anthem for self-empowerment and acceptance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common themes in songs about women empowerment?

Songs about women empowerment often explore themes of self-confidence, independence, resilience, and breaking societal norms. They emphasize the importance of self-worth, equality, and the strength of women in overcoming challenges.

Why do artists create songs about women empowerment?

Artists create songs about women empowerment to inspire and uplift listeners, promoting messages of strength and resilience. These songs aim to challenge stereotypes and encourage women to embrace their true selves and fight for their rights.

Can songs about women empowerment impact societal attitudes?

Yes, songs about women empowerment can significantly impact societal attitudes by raising awareness and promoting positive messages about gender equality. They can inspire change by encouraging individuals to question traditional norms and advocate for women’s rights.

 Are songs about women empowerment limited to a specific genre?

No, songs about women empowerment span various genres, including pop, rock, hip-hop, R&B, and country. Each genre brings a unique perspective and style, making the theme of empowerment accessible to a wide audience.

PD Music

View posts by PD Music
We are a small group of musicians and educators with a mission is to make music education and instrument knowledge accessible to everyone.