Empathy has always been a guiding force in my life, shaping my interactions and deepening my connections with others. It’s the ability to step into someone else’s shoes, to feel their emotions and understand their perspectives, that truly enriches our human experience. Music, with its profound capacity to convey emotion and tell stories, serves as a powerful medium for exploring and expressing empathy.
In this playlist, I’ve curated a list of 20 songs that beautifully capture the essence of empathy. Each track resonates with the listener, offering a glimpse into the diverse emotions and experiences of others.
Contents
- 1. “Be Kind” by Marshmello Ft. Halsey
- 2. “Count On Me” by Bruno Mars
- 3. “Try A Little Kindness” by Glen Campbell
- 4. “Stand By You” by Rachel Platten
- 5. “Treat People With Kindness” by Harry Styles
- 6. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman
- 7. “True Colors” by Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake
- 8. “Empathy” by Alanis Morissette
- 9. “Put A Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon
- 10. “Kindness” by Steven Curtis Chapman
- 11. “I’ll Be Your Mirror” by The Velvet Underground Ft. Nico
- 12. “Flashlight” by Jessie J
- 13. “Loving Kindness” by Ashana
- 14. “Run Like The River” by Meghan Trainor
- 15. “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders
- 16. “At Your Side” by The Corrs
- 17. “All Of You” by The Encanto Cast
- 18. “Empathy Song” by The Mosaic Project
- 19. “Find Your People” by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors
- 20. “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “Be Kind” by Marshmello Ft. Halsey
“Be Kind” is a collaboration between music producer Marshmello and singer Halsey. The song delves into the complexities of trust and vulnerability in relationships. Halsey’s lyrics address the emotional struggles of her partner, who finds it difficult to be open and vulnerable due to past hurts. The chorus emphasizes the importance of being kind and supportive to the ones you love, even when they make mistakes or hide their true feelings. The song’s message is clear: empathy and kindness are crucial in maintaining healthy relationships, especially when dealing with emotional baggage and trust issues.
2. “Count On Me” by Bruno Mars
“Count On Me” is a heartfelt song by Bruno Mars that celebrates the essence of friendship and loyalty. Featured on his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, the song conveys a message of unwavering support and reliability. Mars sings about being there for a friend through thick and thin, emphasizing the importance of trust and mutual support in friendships. The tropical and folk-inspired melody, combined with its uplifting lyrics, makes it a comforting anthem for anyone in need of reassurance and companionship. The song’s theme revolves around the idea that true friends are always there for each other, no matter the circumstances.
3. “Try A Little Kindness” by Glen Campbell
Glen Campbell’s “Try A Little Kindness” is a classic country song that encourages compassion and empathy towards others. Released in 1969, the song’s lyrics urge listeners to show kindness and understanding to those who are struggling. Campbell sings about the importance of helping others without judgment and shining a light of kindness in a world that can often be harsh and indifferent. The song’s simple yet profound message is that small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in people’s lives, promoting a more compassionate and empathetic society.
4. “Stand By You” by Rachel Platten
“Stand By You” by Rachel Platten is an empowering anthem about unwavering support and solidarity. The song’s lyrics convey a message of standing by loved ones through difficult times, offering strength and reassurance. Platten sings about being there for someone, no matter the challenges they face, and emphasizes that no one has to go through tough times alone. The song resonates with themes of empathy, love, and resilience, encouraging listeners to be a source of support and comfort for those in need. Its powerful message and uplifting melody make it a go-to song for anyone seeking encouragement and solidarity.
5. “Treat People With Kindness” by Harry Styles
“Treat People With Kindness” is a song by Harry Styles from his second album Fine Line (2019). The song promotes a message of kindness, acceptance, and positive change in one’s life and towards others. Inspired by a David Bowie interview, Styles wrote the song as a tribute to the idea of treating others with kindness, regardless of differences. The song features a catchy chorus and an upbeat melody that encourages listeners to find happiness and spread kindness. The accompanying music video, featuring actress Phoebe Waller-Bridge, further emphasizes the joyful and inclusive spirit of the song, showcasing a fun dance routine that captures the infectious mood of the track.
6. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me” is a song by Randy Newman, famously used as the main theme for the 1995 Disney/Pixar film Toy Story. The song highlights the special friendship between the characters Woody and Andy, emphasizing loyalty, support, and the comforting presence of a true friend. With its warm and friendly melody, the song has become an iconic representation of friendship and has been featured in all subsequent Toy Story sequels. The lyrics convey a message of unwavering support and companionship, making it a timeless anthem about the importance of being there for one another.
7. “True Colors” by Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake
“True Colors” is a cover of Cyndi Lauper’s 1986 hit, performed by Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake for the 2016 animated film Trolls. The song’s message revolves around acceptance and showing one’s true self without fear of judgment. The duet version by Kendrick and Timberlake brings a fresh emotional depth to the song, emphasizing empathy and understanding. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their authentic selves and reassure them that they are loved and accepted for who they are. This rendition of “True Colors” resonates with themes of empathy, support, and unconditional love.
8. “Empathy” by Alanis Morissette
“Empathy” by Alanis Morissette is a track from her 2012 album Havoc and Bright Lights. The song explores the deep emotional connection that comes from being understood and supported by someone else. Morissette’s lyrics reflect on the healing power of empathy, expressing gratitude for being seen and understood. The song emphasizes the importance of emotional intimacy and the positive impact it has on one’s well-being. With its introspective lyrics and heartfelt delivery, “Empathy” highlights the profound effect that understanding and compassion can have in relationships.
9. “Put A Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon
“Put A Little Love In Your Heart” is a 1969 hit by Jackie DeShannon, co-written with her brother Randy Myers and Jimmy Holiday. The song became DeShannon’s highest-charting hit in the U.S., reaching number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was inspired by the social and political turbulence of the late 1960s, promoting a message of love, unity, and compassion. The lyrics urge listeners to show kindness and understanding towards others, suggesting that small acts of love can make the world a better place. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet powerful message that empathy and love can bring about positive change in society.
10. “Kindness” by Steven Curtis Chapman
“Kindness” is a song by Christian music artist Steven Curtis Chapman from his 2022 album Still. The song emphasizes the transformative power of kindness, inspired by the teachings of Christianity. Chapman reflects on the duality of human actions, acknowledging both the good and the harm done in the name of faith. The lyrics advocate for living with a heart full of kindness, compassion, and humility, suggesting that these virtues can change the world. The song encourages listeners to be quick to listen and slow to speak, promoting empathy and understanding as fundamental aspects of a meaningful life.
11. “I’ll Be Your Mirror” by The Velvet Underground Ft. Nico
“I’ll Be Your Mirror” is a song by The Velvet Underground, featuring vocals by Nico. Written by Lou Reed, the song is a tender expression of empathy and support. The lyrics use the metaphor of a mirror to convey the idea of reflecting someone’s true self back to them, especially when they are unable to see their own worth and beauty. The song addresses themes of self-doubt and insecurity, offering reassurance and a compassionate presence. Its simplicity and poetic nature make it a poignant reminder of the importance of being there for others and helping them see their value through the eyes of someone who cares.
12. “Flashlight” by Jessie J
“Flashlight” by Jessie J is a song from the soundtrack of the 2015 film Pitch Perfect 2. The song speaks to the theme of finding hope and guidance in times of uncertainty. The lyrics describe the fear of facing the unknown and the comfort found in a supportive relationship. The metaphor of a flashlight represents a source of light and guidance that helps navigate through dark and challenging times. The song emphasizes the importance of companionship and the strength derived from having someone to rely on. Jessie J’s powerful vocals and the uplifting melody create an anthem of hope and resilience, highlighting the impact of empathy and support in overcoming adversity.
13. “Loving Kindness” by Ashana
“Loving Kindness” by Ashana is a serene and meditative piece that embodies the principles of mindfulness and compassion. The song’s lyrics, which include lines like “Loving kindness for all beings from the One beyond the stars,” promote a universal sense of empathy and peace. The soothing melody and Ashana’s haunting vocals create a tranquil atmosphere, encouraging listeners to cultivate love and understanding in their lives. This track is often used for healing and relaxation, making it a perfect addition to a playlist centered around empathy and emotional connection.
14. “Run Like The River” by Meghan Trainor
“Run Like The River” by Meghan Trainor is an uplifting and motivational song that speaks to resilience and support. Although not explicitly about empathy, the song’s message of perseverance and encouragement can be seen as a form of emotional support and understanding. Trainor’s energetic performance and the song’s dynamic rhythm inspire listeners to keep moving forward and to support each other through life’s challenges. The metaphor of running like a river suggests a continuous, unwavering strength that can be shared with others, embodying the spirit of empathy.
15. “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders
“I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders is a powerful ballad that pledges unwavering support and loyalty to a loved one during difficult times. Written by Chrissie Hynde, Tom Kelly, and Billy Steinberg, the song emphasizes the importance of being there for someone when they are struggling. The lyrics, “Take me in into your darkest hour / And I’ll never desert you,” highlight the depth of commitment and empathy the singer offers. This song resonates with listeners because of its universal message of love, friendship, and human connection, making it a timeless anthem of empathy and support.
16. “At Your Side” by The Corrs
“At Your Side” by The Corrs is a lively and upbeat pop rock track that celebrates the power of love and friendship. Released in 2000 as part of their album In Blue, the song captures the essence of standing by someone through their struggles and being a source of comfort and strength. The lyrics, “When the daylight’s gone and you’re on your own / And you need a friend just to be around,” convey a message of unwavering support and companionship. The energetic rhythm and cheerful vocals create a joyful atmosphere, making it an uplifting anthem for anyone who needs reassurance and solidarity.
17. “All Of You” by The Encanto Cast
“All Of You” is a song from Disney’s animated film Encanto, performed by the cast. This song serves as the emotional climax of the movie, encapsulating themes of acceptance, understanding, and familial love. The lyrics focus on the importance of seeing and appreciating each family member for who they truly are, beyond their magical gifts. It emphasizes empathy by highlighting the need to understand and support each other through vulnerabilities and imperfections. The vibrant and uplifting melody, combined with heartfelt lyrics, makes “All Of You” a powerful anthem about the strength that comes from empathy and unity within a family.
18. “Empathy Song” by The Mosaic Project
“Empathy Song” by The Mosaic Project is an educational and engaging track designed to teach children about the importance of empathy. The song is part of The Mosaic Project’s curriculum, which aims to promote peace and understanding among young people. The lyrics are straightforward and instructional, explaining what empathy is and how to practice it in everyday life. By encouraging listeners to put themselves in others’ shoes and consider their feelings, the song fosters a sense of compassion and emotional intelligence. Its catchy tune and clear message make it an effective tool for teaching empathy to a younger audience.
19. “Find Your People” by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors
“Find Your People” by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors is a heartfelt song about the significance of finding a supportive community. The lyrics emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with people who understand, support, and uplift you. The song celebrates the bonds of friendship and the empathy that comes from being part of a close-knit group. With its warm, folk-inspired melody and sincere lyrics, “Find Your People” encourages listeners to seek out and cherish relationships built on mutual understanding and compassion. The song’s message is clear: finding your people means finding those who will stand by you through thick and thin.
20. “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers
“Lean On Me” by Bill Withers is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of empathy and support. Released in 1972, the song has become an anthem of solidarity and mutual aid. The lyrics, “Lean on me when you’re not strong / And I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on,” convey a powerful message of being there for one another in times of need. Withers’ soulful delivery and the song’s simple, yet profound melody resonate deeply with listeners, reminding them of the importance of offering and receiving support. “Lean On Me” is a quintessential song about empathy, highlighting the strength and comfort that come from standing together.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.