Many people say “winning isn’t everything” a lot. Even though your coach, parents, or even you may try to convince yourself of that, deep down, we all want to win.
Winning feels great, even for those who aren’t very competitive or didn’t intend to win. It brings happiness and pride, and some might even say it’s addictive.
What makes winning even more special is the songs that celebrate it. These songs have motivational and uplifting lyrics that celebrate the human spirit of persistence, strength, and victory.
So, keep your focus on the prize as we share 20 of the best songs about winning.
Contents
- 20 Songs About Winning, Success And Victory
- 1. “Winning” By Santana
- 2. “We Are the Champions” by Queen
- 3. “Champion” By Kanye West
- 4. “The Winner Takes It All” By ABBA
- 5. “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled featuring T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg, and Rick Ross
- 6. “You’re The Best” By Joe Esposito
- 7. “Winning Ugly” By The Rolling Stones
- 8. “I Believe That We Will Win (World Anthem)” By Pitbull
- 9. “The Greatest” By Sia Ft. Kendrick Lamar
- 10. “Unstoppable” by Sia
- 11. “I’m the Best” by Nicki Minaj
- 12. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus
- 13. “Winner” By Pet Shop Boys
- 14. “Hall of Fame” by The Script
- 15. “Victory” by Puff Daddy
- 16. “Stronger Than You” by Estelle
- 17. “Born To Win” by Papoose
- 18. “Glory” By Common And John Legend
- 19. “The Power” by Snap!
- 20. “Believer” by Imagine Dragon
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
- Listen on Other Music Streaming Platforms
20 Songs About Winning, Success And Victory
1. “Winning” By Santana
“Santana’s cover of ‘Winning’ tells the story of a person who has faced the lowest point in his life, with lines like, ‘One day I was on the ground when I needed a hand, and it couldn’t be found.’
He recounts a time when he was down and needed help, but no one came to their rescue, not even his friends. At that moment, he felt like one of life’s losers, singing, ‘I was one of life’s losers, even my friends were my accusers.'”
However, he refused to accept defeat and was determined not to lose again after having tasted victory. The song reflects a life journey of resilience and the will to overcome adversity, singing, ‘I’m winning, and I don’t intend on losing again.’
2. “We Are the Champions” by Queen
“We Are the Champions” by Queen, released in 1977 on the album “News of the World,” is a celebrated song often played during sports victories.
The lyrics convey a powerful message of resilience and triumph over adversity, with lines like, “I’ve paid my dues, time after time, I’ve done my sentence, but committed no crime.”
The singer reflects on a life journey filled with challenges and mistakes but remains steadfast with lyrics such as, “And bad mistakes, I’ve made a few, I’ve had my share of sand kicked in my face, but I’ve come through.”
Despite facing setbacks, he emphasizes his determination to persevere until victory is achieved. The chorus proudly proclaims, “We are the champions, my friends,” expressing a sense of unity and victory with the community.
3. “Champion” By Kanye West
“Champion” by Kanye West, featured on his album Graduation, is a bright and reggae-inspired track that celebrates personal success.
The song encourages listeners to recognize their own potential and value, emphasizing that others look up to them and believe in them. It reflects a sense of self-confidence and determination to achieve greatness, with lines like, “When it feel like living’s harder than dyin’, for me givin’ up’s way harder than tryin’.”
“Champion” is a motivational anthem that inspires people to believe in themselves and their abilities, reminding them that they have the potential to be champions in their own lives, as Kanye West sings, “Did you realize that you were a champion in their eyes? Yes, I did, so I packed it up and brought it back to the crib, just a lil’ somethin’ show ya how we live.”
4. “The Winner Takes It All” By ABBA
“The Winner Takes It All” by ABBA is a poignant breakup song, told from the perspective of a woman grappling with the aftermath of a failed relationship.
The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and heartache as she acknowledges that the “winner” in this breakup is her ex-partner, who has moved on to a new relationship, while she remains deeply affected by their separation.
Despite her inner turmoil, she congratulates him on finding happiness elsewhere, asking, “But tell me, does she kiss like I used to kiss you? Does it feel the same when she calls your name?”
5. “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled featuring T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg, and Rick Ross
“All I Do Is Win” is an energetic anthem that celebrates the feeling of being a winner and the relentless pursuit of success, with lines like, “All I do is win, win, win no matter what, got money on my mind I can never get enough.”
The song emphasizes the mindset of striving for victory in all aspects of life, even though it acknowledges the ups and downs one may face. It encourages listeners to put their hands up and stay positive, because the success is a mindset and a way of life.
Overall, it’s a motivational and upbeat track that has become popular in various contexts, particularly in sports, for its message of unwavering determination and the desire to achieve greatness.
6. “You’re The Best” By Joe Esposito
Joe Esposito’s song “You’re the Best” is an uplifting anthem that encourages self-belief and perseverance, as expressed in the lyrics, “Try to be best ’cause you’re only a man, and a man’s gotta learn to take it. Try to believe, though the going gets rough, that you gotta hang tough to make it.”
The song inspires the listener to strive to be the best they can be, to believe in themselves, and to face adversity with determination, with lines like, “Fight ’til you drop, never stop, can’t give up, ’til you reach the top.”
It emphasizes that despite facing rough times, one should hang tough and never doubt their capabilities to achieve success.
7. “Winning Ugly” By The Rolling Stones
In their 1986 song “Winning Ugly,” The Rolling Stones explore the idea that sometimes victory isn’t achieved in a perfect or ideal manner, as expressed in the lyrics, “I want to be on top, forever on the up, and damn the competition.”
The term “winning ugly” is used in sports to describe a victory that may come with a bit of luck or through a counterattack, and in life, it represents the reality that not every success is flawless or straightforward.
The lyrics reflect the desire to be on top and succeed, even if it means not always playing fair, with lines like, “I wrap my conscience up, I want to win that cup, and get my money, baby.”
The singer acknowledges that they may not act with complete kindness or humility in the pursuit of victory but still want to win and achieve their goals.
8. “I Believe That We Will Win (World Anthem)” By Pitbull
In Pitbull’s song “I Believe That We Will Win (World Anthem),” released in 2020, the lyrics convey a message of resilience, determination, and the belief in overcoming challenges. The song emphasizes that fear can lead to two choices: “forget everything and run” or “face everything and rise.”
Pitbull highlights the importance of getting back up after each fall, and he believes that what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. He sings,”It’s not how you fall, it’s how you get back up.”
The lyrics inspire a fighting spirit, urging listeners not to be defeated by the challenges life throws at them, as expressed in the lines “We could lose the battle, but we gon win the war.”
9. “The Greatest” By Sia Ft. Kendrick Lamar
In the empowering song “The Greatest” by Sia featuring Kendrick Lamar, the lyrics convey a message of resilience, self-awareness, and the determination to win life’s battles, as expressed in lines like, “Uh-oh running out of breath, but I, oh I, I got stamina,” and “I transform with pressure, I’m hands on with effort.”
The song emphasizes the importance of pushing forward, regardless of the difficulties encountered, and knowing one’s capabilities, with lines like, “And oh yeah, running through the waves of love, oh, oh I got stamina.”
It serves as an anthem of empowerment that encourages listeners to recognize their inner strength and never give up on their path towards success.
10. “Unstoppable” by Sia
“Unstoppable” by Sia is a song that conveys the message of determination and resilience. In the lyrics, the singer talks about wearing a facade of happiness and strength to fool others, even when she’s going through difficult times.
Despite the challenges, the singer emphasizes her unwavering commitment to her goals and refuses to be held back by anyone or anything. She declares, “I’m unstoppable, I’m a Porsche with no brakes, I’m invincible, yeah, I win every single game,” underscoring their relentless pursuit of victory.
In the lyrics, the singer compares herself to a Porsche with no brakes, signifying her unstoppable nature and the ability to win every game they play. She exudes confidence and power, asserting that she doesn’t need external support or validation to succeed.
11. “I’m the Best” by Nicki Minaj
“I’m the Best” by Nicki Minaj, released in 2010 as part of her album “Pink Friday,” is a song that exudes self-confidence and the belief in one’s own abilities.
In the lyrics, the singer reflects on her path to success and how she overcame early mistakes and doubts to become a dominant force in the music industry. She proudly declares, “I’m the best bitch doing it, doing it,” asserting her position as a winner in her field.
The song begins by mentioning her early career in ’07, where she made some tapes and DVDs and acknowledges that she made mistakes along the way. However, she didn’t let those setbacks deter her, and she persevered, eventually reaching a point where she is a global sensation, touring the world and enjoying immense success.
Nicki Minaj expresses her determination and drive by mentioning her unstoppable mindset, often referred to as having “the eye of the tiger” and being the “Lion of Judah.”
12. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus
“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus, featured in the movie Hannah Montana: The Movie, serves as a motivational anthem that encourages us to persevere through challenges in life.
The song begins with the singer expressing her dreams and aspirations but acknowledges the doubt and fear that can often creep into one’s mind. Despite feeling lost and shaken, she’s determined to keep trying and hold her head high. As she declares, “I gotta keep trying, gotta keep my head held high.”
The lyrics remind us that winners keep pushing on, even in the face of challenges, as Miley sings, “Always gonna be an uphill battle, sometimes I’m gonna have to lose.”
13. “Winner” By Pet Shop Boys
“Winner” by Pet Shop Boys, released in 2011, is a song that celebrates a moment of triumph and victory. In the lyrics, the singer reflects on the difficulties he’s been through, acknowledging that it hasn’t been easy and that he’s experienced his fair share of setbacks and losses.
He reflects on the past, remembering the times when they felt downcast and doubted their progress. However, from that desperation, he found inspiration and the inner strength to keep going.
In the end, he has finally arrived at a point where he can enjoy the rewards of his hard work and sacrifices. He emphasizes that now is the moment to savor the taste of victory as he sings, “You’re a winner, I’m a winner.”
14. “Hall of Fame” by The Script
“Hall of Fame” by The Script featuring Will.i.am, released in 2012, is a motivational song that encourages listeners to pursue their goals and dreams with determination and confidence.
The song underscores the idea that everyone possess the innate ability to be winners and champions in their own right, as it boldly states, “You could be the greatest, you can be the best.”
In the lyrics, the singer expresses his belief in everyone’s capability to overcome obstacles and challenges. He sings, “You can move a mountain, you can break rocks.” It means that success is not merely a matter of luck or chance but is attainable through hard work and perseverance.
Ultimately, the singer encourages people from all walks of life to aspire to greatness, whether as students, teachers, politicians, preachers, believers, leaders, or in any other role.
15. “Victory” by Puff Daddy
“Victory” by Puff Daddy featuring The Notorious B.I.G. and Busta Rhymes, released in 1998 as part of Puff Daddy’s album “No Way Out,” is a powerful rap song that celebrates success and triumph in the face of challenges.
The lyrics convey a sense of confidence and self-assuredness, reflecting Puff Daddy’s own path to success and recognition. As Puff Daddy and The Notorious B.I.G. proclaim, “You could be the greatest, you can be the best,” they assert the belief that anyone can achieve greatness and become a winner through hard work and dedication.
Puff Daddy and his team, known as “the Fam,” take pride in their accomplishments and assert their superiority in the music industry, echoing the lyrics, “But P. Diddy and the Fam, who you know do it better?”
16. “Stronger Than You” by Estelle
“Stronger Than You” by Estelle is a powerful and uplifting song, famously known as the theme song for the animated television series Steven Universe.
The lyrics are sung from the perspective of the character Garnet, who is depicted as a confident and self-assured person. Garnet refuses to be brought down by anyone. She boldly proclaims, “I am made of love,” which highlights that her inner strength and love are the driving forces behind her victory over challenges.
Throughout the song, Garnet challenges her adversary to try and defeat her. She embodies the idea that being true to oneself, embracing one’s uniqueness, and relying on the power of love are marks of a winner in life.
17. “Born To Win” by Papoose
“Born To Win” by Papoose, featured on his album “Endangered Species,” is an inspirational rap song that delivers a message of hope and determination to its listeners.
The lyrics emphasize the artist’s unwavering commitment to success and the refusal to accept defeat. As Papoose boldly proclaims, “I thought I told you I was born to win.” He passionately asserts that he was born to win and that everybody loves a winner.
Papoose describes the intense drive and preparation required to achieve success. As he raps, “Practice makes perfect, so when working I dont relax,” he emphasizes the importance of rigorous training, both physically and mentally.
18. “Glory” By Common And John Legend
“Glory” is a song by Common and John Legend released in 2015 for the soundtrack of the civil rights movie Selma. The singer emphasizes the struggle for civil rights and equality. He speaks of the hope that one day, the glory of justice will be achieved, and the war for equality will be won.
The lyrics also mention the historical figures like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., who played pivotal roles in the civil rights movement, as seen in lines such as “That’s why Rosa sat on the bus” and “King pointed to the mountain top and we ran up.”
The song encourages people to stand up for justice and not back down in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the idea that the fight for civil rights is ongoing and that victory requires the collective effort of both the older generation’s wisdom and the younger generation’s energy.
19. “The Power” by Snap!
“The Power” by Snap! is a song that was released in 1990 as the lead single from their debut album, “World Power.” It gained immense popularity worldwide, especially in the dance music genre.
The singer conveys the message that everyone possesses the power within themselves to achieve their dreams and goals. The song emphasizes the importance of determination and self-belief in overcoming obstacles and challenges.
The lyrics also reflect a sense of confidence and assertiveness, with lines like “I’ve got the power” and “Quality, I possess, some say I’m fresh.” The song’s energetic and upbeat rhythm adds to its motivational theme, making it an anthem for self-empowerment and positivity.
20. “Believer” by Imagine Dragon
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons is is an anthem of empowerment and resilience, conveying the idea that pain, though difficult, can lead to personal growth.
The singer expresses a desire to speak his mind and break free from the negativity that has surrounded him. He’s tired of the way things have been and is determined to take control of his own destiny, as seen in lines like “I’m fired up and tired of the way that things have been, oh-ooh” and “I’m the one at the sail, I’m the master of my sea, oh-ooh.”
The singer acknowledges that pain has made him a believer in his own strength and ability to overcome obstacles, as conveyed in the lines “You made me a, you made me a believer, believer.”
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.
Listen on Other Music Streaming Platforms
For your convenience, you can listen to our playlist on:
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.