Perseverance is the ability to endure and persist through challenges. It’s about staying strong and determined when facing difficulties and setbacks.
Perseverance pushes us to become the kind of person a tough situation needs us to be. But when life feels really hard, finding the strength to persevere can be tough.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of 20 great songs about perseverance. These songs will remind you to find your strength and keep going when life throws challenges your way. Let’s get started!
Contents
- 20 Songs About Perseverance And Endurance
- 1. “The Climb” By Miley Cyrus
- 2. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson
- 3. “Rule The World” by Walk Off The Earth
- 4. “Stronger” by Sam Feldt
- 5. “Survivor” By Destiny’s Child
- 6. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
- 7. “Unstoppable” By Sia
- 8. “Keep Holding On” by Avril Lavigne
- 9. “Not Afraid” By Eminem
- 10. “Stronger” By Britney Spears
- 11. “Try Again” By Aaliyah
- 12. “Warrior” By Demi Lovato
- 13. “Roar” by Katy Perry
- 14. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
- 15. “Started from the Bottom” by Drake
- 16. “Adventure Of A Lifetime” By Coldplay
- 17. “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac
- 18. “You Can Get It If You Really Want” by Jimmy Cliff
- 19. “Titanium” by David Guetta
- 20. “Believer” by Imagine Dragons
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
- Listen on Other Music Streaming Platforms
20 Songs About Perseverance And Endurance
1. “The Climb” By Miley Cyrus
“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus, featured in the movie Hannah Montana: The Movie, is a heartfelt song released in 2009 that continues to resonate with its message of perseverance and endurance.
The song starts with the singer expressing, “I can almost see it, that dream I’m dreaming,” but there’s a voice of doubt saying, “You’ll never reach it.” It reflects the feeling of uncertainty and self-doubt, but the determination to keep trying and maintaining a positive outlook remains strong.
As the song continues, it acknowledges that the struggles and chances taken may knock the singer down at times, but she will not break her spirit. These moments of difficulty are seen as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
The singer recognises that the climb, with all its ups and downs, is the essence of life, singing, “Keep on moving, keep climbing, keep the faith, baby. It’s all about, it’s all about the climb.” These lines encourages perseverance, faith, and the belief that the journey itself is where we find strength, growth, and fulfillment.
2. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson is an upbeat pop hit that delivers a message of resilience and endurance. The song, released in the modern era, echoes a timeless philosophy that dates back to Friedrich Nietzsche’s statement in the 1880s, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
As the lyrics say, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” Clarkson’s powerful voice and impactful lyrics breathe new life into this idea. She dismisses the belief that her ex-partner has the upper hand, emphasizing that she’s moved on and becomes stronger.
The song acknowledges that the breakup was a turning point that led to personal growth and self-discovery, with lines like, “Thanks to you I got a new thing started.” The singer thanks her ex-partner for unwittingly being the catalyst for positive change and transformation in her life.
3. “Rule The World” by Walk Off The Earth
“Rule The World” by Walk Off The Earth, released in 2015, is a song that delivers a powerful message about staying true to oneself and not succumbing to external pressures or expectations, as she sings, “I say I rule the world, Don’t cloud my vision.”
The lyrics convey a sense of endurance and defiance against the world’s demands. The singer declares her intention to persevere despite the challenges and obstacles she faces, with lines like, “Made my decision, Made it through the shades of grey.”
She is unafraid of breaking down walls and staying high-spirited, as she sing, “Ain’t afraid of the walls, I’ma break ’em down, They stay the same, while I’m feeling high as a bird.”
4. “Stronger” by Sam Feldt
“Stronger” by Sam Feldt featuring Kesha is an uplifting song that encourages its listeners to face life’s challenges with determination and perseverance.
Kesha’s powerful vocals deliver a message of endurance and strength, as she sings, “I fight my way through the darkness, I battle hard that’s how I’m made.”
The song describes a protagonist who’s willing to fight through the darkness and confront difficulties head-on. It acknowledges that there may be wounds and bruises along the way, but the determination to persevere and become better is unwavering, as reflected in the lyrics, “And I may not heal from all these bruises, But I’ll be better off this way.”
Kesha encourages listeners to keep pushing through challenges and not be discouraged by naysayers, singing, “You gotta take it day by day, Keep movin’ forward no matter what they say.”
5. “Survivor” By Destiny’s Child
“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child is an empowering anthem released in 2001 that celebrates endurance and perseverance. The lyrics, primarily sung by Beyoncé, convey the message of personal growth and strength after a difficult breakup.
The singer addresses someone who doubted her ability to keep moving forward without him and confidently declares her independence and self-improvement. The chorus repeatedly asserts, “I’m a survivor, I’m not gonna give up, I’m not gonna stop, I’m gonna work harder.”
The song encourages the idea that one can become better and wiser after facing adversity, as expressed in the lines like, “Now that you’re outta my life, I’m so much better.”
6. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift is an iconic anthem released in 2014 that promotes endurance, self-confidence, and perseverance, as Taylor sings, “I stay out too late, Got nothing in my brain.”
The lyrics describe the singer’s response to criticism, judgment, and negativity from others, with lines like, “That’s what people say, mm-mm, That’s what people say, mm-mm.”
She addresses the idea that no matter what she does, people will have something to say, but she chooses to focus on what makes her happy, as she sings, “But I keep cruisin’, Can’t stop, won’t stop movin’.”
7. “Unstoppable” By Sia
“Unstoppable” by Sia is a powerful song from her 2016 album “This Is Acting.” It’s all about endurance and perseverance. The lyrics talk about putting on a brave face, even when facing tough times, and not showing vulnerability to others.
As the song says, “I put my armor on, show you how strong I am,” symbolizing the singer’s determination to hide her true feelings and project strength.
The singer compares herself to an unstoppable force, like a Porsche without brakes, with the lines, “I’m unstoppable, I’m a Porsche with no brakes.” This symbolizes her determination to keep moving forward and winning every challenge she faces.
8. “Keep Holding On” by Avril Lavigne
“Keep Holding On” by Avril Lavigne, released in 2006 for the movie Eragon, is a heartfelt and encouraging song about perseverance and the importance of staying strong in difficult times.
Avril Lavigne sings about standing by someone’s side, taking his hand, and not giving in, even when it feels like the end, with lyrics like “Keep holding on, ‘Cause you know we’ll make it through, we’ll make it through.”
The lyrics express the unwavering belief in facing challenges head-on, singing, “There’s nothing you could say, Nothing you could do, There’s no other way when it comes to the truth.”
Avril Lavigne’s emotive vocals and the song’s melodic composition make it a touching and inspirational anthem for anyone going through tough times.
9. “Not Afraid” By Eminem
Eminem’s song “Not Afraid,” released in 2010, is an anthem of endurance and fearlessness in the face of adversity.
In the song, he emphasizes that he’s not afraid to take a stand and face the difficulties that life throws at him, inviting others to join him by saying, “Come take my hand (come take my hand) to get to this one.”
Throughout the song, Eminem expresses his determination to pursue his goals and passions without being swayed by the opinions of others. He’s resolved to persevere through challenges, no matter the circumstances, as he declares, “I’m doin’ this for me, so fuck the world, feed it beans.”
10. “Stronger” By Britney Spears
In 2000, the Princess of Pop, Britney Spears, released the empowering pop song “Stronger.”
The song begins with Spears expressing her determination to break free from a toxic relationship, declaring with conviction, “Hush, just stop. There’s nothing you can do or say, baby. I’ve had enough.” She asserts her independence and self-worth, making it clear that she’s stronger than what others might think.
The chorus of “Stronger” celebrates the newfound strength and perseverance Spears has discovered within herself, as she sings, “Stronger than yesterday. Now it’s nothing but my way. My loneliness ain’t killing me no more. I, I’m stronger.”
As the song continues, Spears confidently states that she’s moving forward on her own, emphasizing that she doesn’t need anybody else to define her worth. The repetition of “Here I go, on my own” reinforces her newfound endurance and self-reliance.
11. “Try Again” By Aaliyah
In the year 2000, R&B and hip-hop singer Aaliyah delivered an empowering message of perseverance through her song “Try Again.” The song was prominently featured in the movie “Romeo Must Die,” in which Aaliyah starred. “Try Again” quickly became a chart-topping hit and earned the MTV Video Music Award for Best Video from a Film.
The lyrics of “Try Again” encourage us to persevere in the pursuit of love. Because in matters of romnatic relationships, initial attempts may not always succeed, but that shouldn’t discourage one from trying again. Aaliyah’s angelic voice croons, “If at first you don’t succeed, then dust yourself off and try again.”
Aaliyah sings about the uncertainty that can accompany the early stages of a relationship, acknowledging that chemistry can be perfect at first but may evolve or change over time. The song conveys the idea of taking things step by step to see how the connection develops.
12. “Warrior” By Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato’s ballad “Warrior” is a powerful and deeply personal song where she opens up about her past suffering, abuse, and mental health challenges. The song serves as a cathartic release and a declaration of resilience. Lovato declares, “This is a story that I have never told, I gotta get this off my chest to let it go.”
In “Warrior,” Lovato addresses someone who has caused her pain and declares him a “criminal” for stealing her light and happiness. She wears the pain and truth of her past like battle wounds but express that she’s no longer ashamed or confused.
Despite the difficult moments she’s endured, Lovato ultimately reclaims her strength and power, singing, “I’m a warrior, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.”
Through her story, she reminds listeners that they, too, can be warriors and overcome their own hardships, declaring, “Now I’m a warrior, I’ve got thicker skin, I’m a warrior, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.”
13. “Roar” by Katy Perry
“Roar” by Katy Perry, released in 2013 as part of her album “Prism,” is an empowering anthem that celebrates finding one’s voice, standing up for oneself, and persevering through challenges.
Katy Perry begins by reflecting on a time when she used to “bite her tongue” and “hold her breath,” afraid to speak up or make waves. She recalls feeling subdued and passive, but she eventually realizes that she has a choice to assert herself and regain her confidence.
As the song continues, Katy Perry embraces her newfound strength and resilience. She asserts that despite being held down by others, she has risen and is ready to face the world.
The metaphor of having “the eye of the tiger” and “dancing through the fire” reinforces the idea of endurance and strength in the face of adversity.
14. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten is a song that was released in 2014 but gained renewed popularity on social media as an anthem for resilience. It encourages listeners to find their inner strength and not give up, even when faced with challenges or doubt from others.
The lyrics, like “Like a small boat on the ocean, sending big waves into motion,” talk about feeling like a small boat in the vast ocean, capable of creating significant waves with just one match. It emphasizes the idea that even one person’s actions and words can have a powerful impact on the world.
The chorus of the song declares it as the singer’s fight song, with lines like “This is my fight song, take back my life song, prove I’m alright song, my power’s turned on.” It’s a way to take back control of their life, prove they are okay, and ignite their inner power.
In the end, it conveys the message of determination and perseverance with lyrics like “Starting right now I’ll be strong, I’ll play my fight song.”
15. “Started from the Bottom” by Drake
“Started from the Bottom” by Drake is a rap and hip-hop song that reflects on the hard work, endurance, and perseverance it took for Drake to rise to the top.
In the song, Drake starts with the phrase “Started from the bottom, now we’re here,” emphasizing his rise from a lower point in life to a position of success.
He recounts his early struggles, including living at his mother’s house and facing arguments, with lines like “Living at my mama house we’d argue every month.” Despite these challenges, he worked tirelessly and stayed committed to his goals.
Throughout the song, Drake underscores the idea that he and his team have come a long way and achieved their dreams through hard work and dedication, with lines like “Now I’m on the road, half a million for a show.”
16. “Adventure Of A Lifetime” By Coldplay
In 2015, the British rock band Coldplay released the uplifting song “Adventure of a Lifetime.” This cheerful track combines upbeat music with heartfelt lyrics that contain advice about perseverance and embracing life as an adventure.
The lyrics of “Adventure of a Lifetime” encourage listeners to turn their “magic” on and believe that everything they desire is just a dream away.
It speaks of being legendary every day and emphasizes the idea that we are like diamonds, shaped and strengthened under the pressure and weight of life’s experiences.
Coldplay expresses the feeling of being alive and rejuvenated after facing and overcoming life’s obstacles, as he sings, “Oh, you make me feel like I’m alive again.”
17. “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac
“Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac is a rock song that carries a message of hope, perseverance, and embracing the future with optimism. The song encourages listeners to focus on the positive possibilities that tomorrow can bring, rather than dwelling on the past or present difficulties.
The lyrics suggest that even when you wake up feeling down, taking a moment to open your eyes and look at the new day can change your perspective, as mentioned in lines like, “If you wake up and don’t want to smile, If it takes just a little while, Open your eyes and look at the day, You’ll see things in a different way.”
The repetition of the phrase “Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow” reinforces the message of looking ahead with hope and anticipation. It emphasizes that yesterday is gone, and it’s important to focus on the times to come and the potential for positive change.
18. “You Can Get It If You Really Want” by Jimmy Cliff
“You Can Get It If You Really Want” by Jimmy Cliff is an uplifting reggae song that conveys a message of determination, perseverance, and the belief that success is achievable with persistent effort, as highlighted in lines like, “You can get it if you really want, You can get it if you really want.”
The lyrics emphasize the idea that one can achieve their goals if they truly desire them and are willing to put in the necessary effort, with lines like “But you must try, try and try, try and try, You’ll succeed at last.”
The song references the saying “Rome was not built in a day,” reminding us that great achievements often take time and effort.
It suggests that facing obstacles and opposition is a natural part of the path towards success, as Jimmy Cliff sings, “Opposition will come your way, But the hotter the battle you see, Is the sweeter the victory now.”
19. “Titanium” by David Guetta
“Titanium” by David Guetta featuring Sia is a pop song that uses the metaphor of someone with unbreakable armor to convey the message of perseverance and endurance in the face of criticism and adversity, as expressed in lines like, “You shoot me down, but I won’t fall, I am titanium.”
In the lyrics, the person is being criticized and attacked, but he remains unfazed and resilient, with lines like, “I’m talking loud, not saying much, I’m bulletproof, nothing to lose.”
He describe himself as “bulletproof” and emphasize that nothing can bring him down. The repetition of the phrase “I am titanium” reinforces the idea of being strong and unbreakable.
20. “Believer” by Imagine Dragons
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons is a powerful song that conveys a message of endurance, perseverance, and using pain as a source of motivation to overcome challenges, as expressed in lines like, “Pain! You made me a, you made me a believer, believer” and “You break me down and build me up, believer, believer.”
The lyrics begin with the singer expressing his frustration with the way things have been and his desire for change, as shown in lines like, “I’m fired up and tired of the way that things have been.”
He emphasizes his determination to take control of his life and destiny. The chorus of the song repeats the word “Pain!” to highlight the idea of using pain as a driving force for personal growth.
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.
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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.