Leaders are important as they play a key role in ensuring success no matter where they go. Whether it’s galvanizing their employees to action or making tough decisions, capable leaders are forces to be reckoned with.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of songs that define the meaning of being a leader. From pop to blues, these tracks will definitely inspire you and your teammates.
The Best Songs About Leadership
“Brave” – Sara Bareilles
Leaders have to be brave to face challenges and obstacles at work every day.
This 2013 power pop hit is an anthem of unleashing your inner power and ingenuity.
The booming beats, motivating lyrics, and powerful vocals make it the perfect choice for you to speak up and inspire those around you.
“Bet on It” – Zac Efron
A good leader must know when to admit to mistakes to avoid resentment among colleagues.
“Bet on It” details the main character’s desire to make things right with his friends and come out on top again.
With a pulsating rhythm, this song is a classic that’s equally motivating and easy to sing.
“Unstoppable” – The Score
Leaders must know how to foster teamwork and motivate their staff.
Released in 2016, “Unstoppable” is the best choice for pep talks with an inspiring message that you can achieve anything as long as you put your mind to it.
This uptempo track is also very catchy and surely would get everyone pumped up, including yourself!
“Get’cha Head in the Game” – Zac Efron
Success isn’t going to happen unless you clear distractions out and keep your focus on your goal.
This upbeat track revolves around the main character’s dilemma on whether he wants to fulfill his responsibilities or follow his desires.
If the super catchy melody isn’t enough, the song is a superb track to help you minimize distractions and concentrate on your tasks.
The Champion – Carrie Underwood feat. Ludacris
“The Champion” was featured as the opening theme for the 2018 Super Bowl LII.
The song is about overcoming obstacles, a message that resonates with everyone.
Leaders also need encouragement and motivation, and this track is perfect for that.
“Keep on Pushing” – The Impressions
A soulful ballad, this track has a poignant theme everyone can easily relate to.
Published at the times of the civil rights movement, the track is about drawing on your strength to persevere through the hard times.
Exemplary leadership requires endurance and determination, even when the going gets tough.
“Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
“Eye of the Tiger” is the definitive track to get anyone psyched up for oncoming challenges.
No surprise there; it was afterall the theme song of the 1982 film Rocky III.
The song goes hard with an empowering vibe, inspiring you to embrace your mission and crush the competition.
“Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself” – Jess Glyne
Being a leader can be physically, mentally, and emotionally tiring, thus it’s okay to be kind to yourself from time to time.
This feel-good anthem features a refreshing tune and Glyne’s resonant vocals that’d leave you feeling invigorated.
“Fearless” – Jasmine Murray
In a ruthless and competitive environment, it takes a lot for leaders to be fearless and bold to handle anything.
This 2018 track is about never giving up and facing whatever is thrown at you.
An upbeat tune with sweeping melodies, it’s a great choice to rev you up for the day!
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” – Daft Punk
Work doesn’t always have to be boring and tedious, especially with this quirky house-style hit.
This 2001 track is one of Daft Punk’s most popular singles and was featured in well-known media like Disney’s Wreck-It-Ralph and Grey’s Anatomy.
The irresistible electronic vocals, infectious beats, and witty lyrics double as a dance-worthy bop and confidence booster.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” – Starship
An unforgettable classic, Starship’s 1987 single teaches us the importance of teamwork and shared goals.
The song isn’t just a perfect fit to cultivate positive work synergy, but also a catchy banger we can dance and sing to.
“(We Could Be) Heroes” – Alesso feat. Tove Lo
Leaders are heroes in some way since they bear tons of responsibilities and make decisions when no one can.
This fast-paced 2014 track is an homage to David Bowie’s “Heroes” and focuses on working hard to make your dreams come true.
With an emotional tune, “Heroes” will surely give you the drive and motivation you need.
“Standing Outside the Fire” – Garth Brooks
Though it was released in 1993, this country track is an anthem of resolve and tenacity.
With a guitar-driven melody, it’s about giving life a chance even when it has gotten bad before.
It’s a truly inspirational song and a feel-good ballad that’s easy to follow.
“High Hopes” – Frank Sinatra
Leaders are often expected to resolve issues when no one can do it.
Sinatra’s famous 1959 show tune might sound like a children’s song, but it has a thought-provoking message that’s still relevant today.
The lyrics basically tell us that there are always solutions to problems, as long as you don’t give up on finding them.
“Never Give Up” – Sia
Successful leaders know that accepting defeat would never yield the desired results.
Sia’s 2016 electro-pop single is simple yet effective; it encourages us to always keep going even when it gets difficult.
“Go the Distance” – Michael Bolton
If you’re a Disney fan, you might remember this song from Disney’s 1997 film Hercules.
Lyrically, it’s about working hard tirelessly to accomplish your vision and goals, knowing it’ll pay off some day.
With epic instrumentals and melodic vocals, this song would surely provide you and your colleagues the push you need at work.
“Whatever It Takes” – Imagine Dragons
If you’re looking for a song to kick you into high gear, this booming single’s got your back.
The song revolves around doing the best you can no matter the obstacles, something we can resonate with in a competitive environment.
The fast-paced versus and pounding melodies make it a liberating track to sing out at karaoke.
“With My Own Two Hands” – Ben Harper
Wanting change and adapting to it are key qualities of being exceptional leaders.
Harper’s poignant, bluesy ballad is about taking the first step to making the world a better place.
A wonderful choice that clears your head and gets you back on track.
“You Can Make It If You Try” – Sly and the Family Stone
Triumphs can’t be accomplished unless you’re willing to put work in.
This 1969 song is a call for positive action to make something out of your life for the better.
The road to success isn’t smooth, but the experience you gain is what makes the journey valuable.
“Girl on Fire” – Alicia Keys
“Girl on Fire” is for all the female leaders who’re hustling and grinding their way to the top!
A timeless classic, this song is an ode to female empowerment and celebrates the capability of women everywhere.
It’s a big ballad, but if you have the right set of pipes, go for it!
“Fire Under My Feet” – Leona Lewis
Published in the 2015 album I Am, this gospel-influenced single finds Lewis proclaiming to the world that she’s ready to take the world on.
Featuring clapping beats and energetic vocals, this song makes a fun dance anthem that’ll motivate you and your colleagues.
“Roar” – Katy Perry
Looking for a good song to unleash your inner beast to take down competition? This power pop anthem checks out all the boxes!
“Roar” exudes a confident, powerful vibe that makes you feel like a total boss.
The catchy tune and Perry’s diva-like vocals make it a high-energy song that boosts your mood and uplifts your spirit.
“Everyday Superhero” – Smash Mouth
As much as people would like to view leaders as superheroes who can do anything, they’re human too and capable of making mistakes.
This 2006 rock song describes your everyday person with their flaws and shortcomings.
It’s a great reminder to share out the responsibilities with your teammates and avoid undertaking it all by yourself.
“Roll With It” – Oasis
Don’t let anyone mess with your mojo and keep moving forward.
“Roll With It” is about making decisions for yourself without letting anyone else influence you.
It’s a catchy rock-and-roll experience that’d leave you feeling energized and ready to work again.
“Dream On” – Aerosmith
You can never say no to an Aerosmith song, especially this iconic hard rock ballad!
Leaders are also people who’re full of dreams, and this track captures the intense passion to pursue your goals.
The song is also well-recognized that you’ll get your audience to sing along with you in no time.
