30 Happy Songs That Will Put a Huge Smile on Your Face
Listening to this feel-good music will instantly put you in a great mood.
Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
When life hands you lemons, turn up the tunes. (That's how the saying goes, right? đ) ClichĂ©s aside, it's a scientific fact that listening to music can boost your mood and improve your overall well-being. So when you're having a bad day, it can be made a little bit easier if you have a list of happy songs at the ready.
These feel-good songs will immediately put a smile on your face and make you feel better about the worldâand they'll make you want to dance, too. We're all dealing with stress these days in one form or another, and when times are tough, jamming out to this happy playlist certainly can't hurt. (We recommend blasting these happy songs in the car with the windows rolled down, but walking down the sidewalk with headphones in will get the job done, too.)
Choose from iconic '70s songs like "Dancing Queen", classic '80s songs like "Walking on Sunshine", pop hits like Katy Perry's "Firework," and country songs like "Live Like You Were Dying." No matter what genre you're in the mood for, every positive song on this list has a great beat and inspiring lyrics to get the good vibes going, pronto. Prepare to feel instantly happier, starting, of course. with the happiest song imaginable: "Happy!"
(And when you're done dancing, sit down and enjoy one of these feel-good movies!)
"Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves
Even Dolly Parton recorded a version of this 80s track, so you know it's good.
"Put Your Records On" by Corinne Bailey Rae
This karaoke night favorite conjures up imagery of summers filled with double-dutch and road-side bars.
"I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas
If this party anthem doesn't make you want to get up and dance, nothing will.
"Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys
The Beach Boysâ catchy beat and light-hearted lyrics will transport you to sunnier days.
"This Is Me" by Keala Settle, Kesha, & Missy Elliott
Looking for the perfect pump-up song? You'll find it in this inspirational cover from The Greatest Showman soundtrack. Missy Elliott's part = guaranteed chills!
"Sunday Best" by Surfaces
The very first line of this catchy tune goes like this: "Feeling good, like I should." Need we say more?
"It's My Life" by Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi's chart-topping track from the early 2000s is sure to inspire you to live while you're alive.
"Shut Up and Dance" by Walk the Moon
The best thing to do if you're feeling down? Shut up and dance!
"I'm a Believer" by Smash Mouth
And then I saw her face heard this song, now I'm a believer! Smash Mouth's hit cover was made popular by the Shrek soundtrackâand for good reason!
"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield
Best enjoyed at full volume with the windows down. Itâs mandatory you shout out the chorus, too.
"9 to 5" by Dolly Parton
Working 9 to 5 can be a drag, but listening to this song is the equivalent of chugging "a cup of ambition."
"Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
The smash success won the 2016 Grammy for Record of the Year, and for good reason. Get ready to get funky!
"Don't Worry, Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin
Bobby McFerrin's record-breaking hit was the first a cappella song to ever reach number-one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The title and the simple lyrics speak for themselves.
"Firework" by Katy Perry
Even if you've never felt *quite* like "a plastic bag," it's always nice to be reminded that you are, in fact, a firework.
"Good Life" by One Republic
Come for the irresistible whistling, stay for the empowering message.
"Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift
If anyone knows how to keep the haters from getting you down, it's Taylor Swift. Listen to her and shake it off!
"Lovely Day" by Bill Withers
It was a lovely day when Bill Withers recorded this tune in 1977, and it'll be just as lovely now after you listen to his feel-good lyrics.
"That's the Way It Is" by CĂ©line Dion
When Queen CĂ©line tells you not to surrender, you better believe you can win.
The Top Nail Colors Defining Fall 2025
22 Best Cowboy Boots to Wear With Fall Outfits
This Map Shows When the Leaves Will Change Colors
20 Different Types of Pumpkins You Can Pick
