20 Songs About Trying

In a world that often celebrates success and achievement, it’s easy to overlook the profound importance of trying. Yet, it’s in the act of trying—of giving our best effort despite the odds—that we truly discover our resilience, strength, and capacity for growth. 

As someone who has faced both triumphs and setbacks, I have come to appreciate the beauty and significance of the journey itself. 

This collection of 20 songs about trying resonates deeply with me, as each track captures the essence of perseverance, determination, and the courage to keep moving forward. 

1. “Trying” by The Kid LAROI

This emotional track explores the struggles of dealing with fame, loss, and personal growth. The Kid LAROI reflects on his attempts to navigate life’s challenges, particularly the difficulties of being thrust into the spotlight at a young age. The lyrics convey a sense of inner turmoil and the constant effort to overcome personal obstacles. The song’s chorus emphasizes the recurring theme of “trying” to work through changes and pain, highlighting the ongoing nature of these struggles.

2. “Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart” by Alicia Keys

This powerful ballad showcases Alicia Keys’ ability to convey deep emotion through her music. The song explores the aftermath of a failed relationship and the challenge of moving on. With its 1980s-inspired production featuring crashing drums and whirring bass, the track creates a cinematic atmosphere that complements Keys’ passionate vocals. The lyrics depict the difficulty of sleeping alone after a heartbreak, serving as a metaphor for the broader struggle of healing and finding oneself after a significant loss.

3. “Try” by Simple Plan

Simple Plan’s “Try” is a heartfelt plea for a second chance in a relationship. The song’s lyrics express remorse for past mistakes and a sincere commitment to change and improve. The narrator acknowledges their flaws, particularly in honesty and trustworthiness, while promising to make things different. The chorus emphasizes the determination to “try” and not disappoint their partner, highlighting the effort required to mend a damaged relationship. This pop-rock track showcases the band’s ability to blend emotional vulnerability with catchy melodies.

4. “Try” by Colbie Caillat

Caillat’s “Try” stands out as an empowering anthem promoting self-acceptance and challenging societal beauty standards. The song encourages listeners, particularly women, to embrace their natural selves without the pressure to conform to external expectations. Caillat’s lyrics question the need to change one’s appearance or personality to please others, emphasizing the importance of self-love. The accompanying music video reinforces this message by featuring women removing their makeup and embracing their natural looks. “Try” has been praised for its positive message and its contribution to discussions about body image and self-esteem in popular music.

5. “Try Me” by The Weeknd

“Try Me” by The Weeknd is a dark, atmospheric R&B track from his EP My Dear Melancholy,. The song delves into themes of temptation and longing as The Weeknd attempts to persuade a former lover to leave her current partner for him. The lyrics are emotionally complex, highlighting the internal struggle and the seductive allure he presents. The production features electric synths, a thumping trap-influenced beat, and layered backing vocals that create an immersive listening experience.

The chorus, “Can you try me? Once you put your pride aside, You can notify me,” underscores his plea for her to give him another chance, despite the potential consequences.

6. “Give Yourself A Try” by The 1975

“Give Yourself A Try” by The 1975 is an introspective and energetic track from their album A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships. The song addresses themes of self-reflection, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating modern life. With its punk-inspired guitar riff and candid lyrics, the song encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and learn from their experiences. Frontman Matty Healy reflects on his own struggles and the importance of self-acceptance, making it a relatable anthem for those trying to find their way in a complex world.

7. “Try Me” by Jason Derulo ft. J.Lo and Matoma

“Try Me” is a tropical house track by Jason Derulo featuring Jennifer Lopez and Matoma. The song is a flirtatious and upbeat tune that revolves around the theme of romantic pursuit. Derulo and Lopez exchange playful verses, inviting each other to take a chance on their potential relationship. The tropical beats and catchy melody create a feel-good atmosphere, making it a perfect summer anthem. The lyrics emphasize the excitement and anticipation of trying something new and the possibilities that come with taking a risk in love.

8. “Trying My Best” by Anson Seabra

“Trying My Best” by Anson Seabra is a heartfelt ballad that explores the struggles of dealing with anxiety and self-doubt. The song’s gentle piano melody and Seabra’s emotive vocals create an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere.

The lyrics convey a sense of perseverance and the effort to keep going despite feeling overwhelmed. Seabra’s honest portrayal of his own experiences with mental health resonates with listeners who may be facing similar challenges. The song serves as a reminder that trying one’s best, even in difficult times, is a commendable effort.

9. “Why Try” by Ariana Grande

“Why Try” is a track from Ariana Grande’s second studio album, My Everything (2014). Co-written and produced by Ryan Tedder, the song explores the complexities of a turbulent relationship.

The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and resignation as Grande questions the effort put into a relationship that seems destined to fail. The chorus, with its repetitive questioning of “Why try, why try?”, underscores the futility she feels.

Musically, the song features Grande’s powerful vocals layered over a blend of pop and R&B elements, creating an emotional and introspective atmosphere.

10. “Try Hard” by 5 Seconds of Summer

“Try Hard” by 5 Seconds of Summer delves into the emotional turmoil of adolescence, capturing the essence of trying to fit in and impress someone who seems out of reach. The song’s lyrics reflect the band’s experiences with youthful passion and the pressures to conform to societal expectations. Lines like “And I’m finding it hard ’cause / she makes me feel … / like I try … like I’m trying too hard / ’cause I’m not being me” highlight the struggle between authenticity and the desire to be liked. Musically, the track is a pop-rock anthem with energetic guitar riffs and catchy melodies, embodying the band’s signature sound.

11. “I Ain’t Tryin'” by Chris Brown ft. Young Thug

“I Ain’t Tryin'” by Chris Brown featuring Young Thug is a track from their collaborative mixtape Slime & B (2020). The song explores the theme of unreciprocated efforts in a complex relationship.

The lyrics express the frustration of trying to walk away from a relationship that lacks mutual appreciation, with lines like “When I try to walk away, it’s like I ain’t try … / You made me do it a thousand times / Yeah, you done me”.

The musical style is a departure from Brown’s usual energetic tracks, showcasing a more subdued and introspective tone, blending R&B with trap influences.

12. “Try Not to Breathe” by R.E.M.

“Try Not to Breathe” is the second track on R.E.M.’s critically acclaimed album Automatic for the People (1992). The song addresses themes of mortality and the end of life, inspired by lead singer Michael Stipe’s reflections on his grandmother’s death.

The lyrics are a poetic depiction of a person on their deathbed, grappling with the acceptance of their impending end and conveying love to their family through an internal monologue. Lines like “I will try not to burden you / I can hold these inside / I will hold my breath until all these shivers subside” capture the emotional depth and resignation of the character.

Musically, the song features a subdued acoustic foundation with dark, pensive undertones, aligning with the album’s overall theme of loss and mourning.

13. “Try” by P!nk

“Try” by P!nk is a powerful anthem about resilience and perseverance, featured on her sixth studio album, The Truth About Love (2012). The song, written by Ben West and Busbee, and produced by Greg Kurstin, is a pop ballad with 1980s FM rock influences.

The lyrics encourage taking risks in love and life, even when faced with potential pain and failure. P!nk uses the metaphor of fire to describe the passion and risks involved in pursuing one’s desires: “Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame / Where there is a flame, someone’s bound to get burned / But just because it burns doesn’t mean you’re gonna die / You gotta get up and try, try, try.” The song’s dynamic arrangement, with quiet verses and a loud chorus, enhances its emotional impact.

Critics praised its production and P!nk’s vocal performance, describing it as a motivational and uplifting track about the importance of continuing to try despite setbacks.

14. “Give Me A Try” by Sizzla

“Give Me A Try” by Sizzla is a reggae track released in 2003, showcasing the artist’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. The song revolves around the theme of romantic pursuit and the desire for a chance at love.

Sizzla’s lyrics express a plea to his romantic interest, asking why she is not spending time with him and why she listens to others who discourage their relationship. The protagonist’s earnest request, “Give me a try, ’cause I know that things will be great,” highlights his belief in the potential of their union and his willingness to put in the effort to make it work.

The track’s mellow reggae rhythm and sincere lyrics make it a touching addition to any playlist about trying, particularly in the context of love and relationships.

15. “Can’t Blame A Girl For Trying” by Sabrina Carpenter

“Can’t Blame A Girl For Trying” is the debut single by Sabrina Carpenter, released in 2014 from her EP of the same name. Written by Meghan Trainor, Al Anderson, and Chris Gelbuda, the song is a midtempo pop-folk track with acoustic guitar backing. The lyrics reflect the experiences of a young girl navigating the ups and downs of love, making mistakes, and learning from them.

Carpenter sings about being foolish in love but emphasizes that it’s all part of growing up and trying: “You can’t blame a girl for trying.”

The song’s lighthearted and relatable message, combined with its catchy melody, captures the essence of youthful optimism and the willingness to keep trying despite setbacks.

It received positive reviews and won a Radio Disney Music Award for “Best Crush Song” in 2015.

16. “This Is Me Trying” by Taylor Swift

“This Is Me Trying” is a song by Taylor Swift from her eighth studio album, Folklore (2020). Co-written and produced by Swift, Jack Antonoff, and Joe Alwyn, the track is an orchestral pop and dream pop tune with a somber, introspective tone. The song delves into themes of addiction, mental health struggles, and the feeling of inadequacy. Swift reflects on a period in her life when she felt worthless and was battling existential crises and alcoholism.

The lyrics convey the narrator’s efforts to improve and be better, even when those efforts go unnoticed: “They told me all of my cages were mental / So I got wasted like all my potential / And my words shoot to kill when I’m mad / I have a lot of regrets about that.”

Critics praised the song for its emotional depth, poignant lyrics, and Swift’s vulnerable vocal delivery. “This Is Me Trying” resonates with anyone who has faced personal demons and continues to strive for self-improvement.

17. “Everybody’s Trying To Be My Baby” by The Beatles

This rockabilly cover, originally recorded by Carl Perkins, was released on The Beatles’ 1964 album “Beatles for Sale.” The song features George Harrison on lead vocals, showcasing his love for early rock and roll. The lyrics playfully describe the narrator’s popularity, with everyone vying for their attention. The Beatles’ version maintains the energetic spirit of the original while adding their signature sound. They recorded it live at EMI Studios in London, with Harrison’s vocals heavily processed using the STEED effect.

The track concludes with a false ending, repeating the final phrase after the song seems to have stopped, adding a touch of Beatles charm to the cover.

18. “I’m Trying” by Alexander Stewart

Released on May 19, 2023, “I’m Trying” is a deeply personal song by Canadian singer-songwriter Alexander Stewart. The track addresses Stewart’s struggles with anxiety, depression, and OCD, marking the first time he’s openly discussed these issues in his music. Stewart describes the song as an attempt to reach out to others facing similar challenges, emphasizing that they’re not alone. The music video, shot over two days, visually represents the emotional journey described in the lyrics.

Stewart’s vulnerable approach in “I’m Trying” showcases his growth as an artist and his willingness to use his platform to discuss mental health issues.

19. “I Am Trying To Break Your Heart” by Wilco

The opening track of Wilco’s critically acclaimed 2002 album “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot,” this song sets the tone for the experimental and introspective nature of the record. Jeff Tweedy’s lyrics blend abstract imagery with direct emotional statements, creating a complex narrative of isolation and regret in the aftermath of a tumultuous relationship.

The song’s unconventional structure and production techniques, including layered instrumentation and distorted sounds, reflect the disorientation and emotional turmoil of the lyrics. Tweedy has described the song’s core message as an attempt to connect with the audience by metaphorically breaking their hearts, highlighting the power of vulnerability in art.

20. “Trying Your Luck” by The Strokes

Featured on The Strokes’ debut album “Is This It” (2001), “Trying Your Luck” showcases Julian Casablancas’ introspective songwriting. The track explores themes of romantic uncertainty and the willingness to take risks in relationships. Casablancas’ lyrics paint a picture of a narrator grappling with past experiences while still being open to new possibilities. The song’s instrumentation, characterized by The Strokes’ signature garage rock sound, complements the emotional vulnerability expressed in the lyrics.

Originally titled “This Life” in early demos, “Trying Your Luck” exemplifies the band’s ability to blend raw emotion with catchy melodies, contributing to their reputation as pioneers of the early 2000s indie rock revival.

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.


Leave a Comment

Curated Playlists for Every Mood