Waking up can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially if you’re navigating a difficult and particularly stressful situation. Beyond just being enjoyable, research shows that music can positively affect your mood, mental health, and energy levels. According to music psychologist David M. Greenberg’s collaboration with Spotify, there’s a specific type of song that can make getting out of bed easier and help you feel more alert and motivated throughout the day.
In this article, we’ll explore not only the best songs for your morning wake-up routine but also dive into what psychologists say about the power of music therapy. So, if you’re looking for a proven way to start your mornings with positivity and energy, you’re in the right place!
Music Therapy: The Power of Music for Mental Health
Music therapy is a clinical practice that uses music to address a wide range of mental and emotional health issues. It’s not just about feeling good—music has proven benefits on both cognitive and emotional levels. Here’s what psychologists say about how music can be used to improve your mental health:
- Mood Regulation: Music can help you regulate your emotions. Whether you need to calm down or feel more energized, the right song can act as a powerful tool for emotional adjustment.
- Stress Reduction: Listening to calming music reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone), promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Enhanced Cognitive Function: Certain types of music, particularly classical or instrumental, can help improve focus, memory, and cognitive performance.
- Motivation and Endurance: Upbeat music increases dopamine levels, which in turn boosts motivation and feelings of pleasure. This is why music is often used during workouts or challenging activities.
- Building Connection: Music therapy can also be used in social settings to build emotional connections with others, as it taps into shared emotions and experiences.
With these principles in mind, music can act as a therapeutic tool to help you start your day with more energy and positivity.
Elements of an Ideal Wakeup Song
Not all songs are created equal for waking up. According to Greenberg, an ideal morning song has these features:
- Build-Up: Songs with gradual builds help you transition smoothly from sleep to wakefulness.
- Positive Lyrics: Lyrics that inspire, motivate, or uplift are key for setting a positive tone.
- Upbeat Tempo: A tempo between 100-130 BPM gets your blood flowing but isn’t overwhelming.
- Bright Melodies: Melodies in major keys are more likely to evoke happiness and energy.
- Strong Rhythms: A steady, consistent rhythm keeps you motivated as you get moving
The Best Songs to Start Your Day
Hereafter, find my 30 of the best songs to wake up to, scientifically curated according to criterion elaborated by David M. Greenberg. Each song is chosen for its ability to boost energy, positivity, and focus—perfect for getting your morning off to the right start. Plus, you can listen to each one right away with the provided YouTube links.
- “Viva La Vida” – Coldplay
Chris Martin and Coldplay’s soaring orchestration and energizing beats make this song ideal for waking up refreshed.
Listen on YouTube - “Good as Hell” – Lizzo
Lizzo’s self-confidence anthem instantly boosts your mood and makes you feel unstoppable.
Listen on YouTube - “Wake Up” – Arcade Fire
A song that builds from soft melodies to powerful crescendos, giving you a push to start your day with purpose.
Listen on YouTube - “Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
The smooth tones of Bill Withers’ voice, along with the uplifting lyrics, make this a perfect morning tune.
Listen on YouTube - “Feel Good Inc.” – Gorillaz
Catchy beats and funky vibes make this track ideal for energizing your morning routine.
Listen on YouTube - “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
This infectious, danceable pop hit lifts your mood and gets you moving.
Listen on YouTube - “Dog Days Are Over” – Florence + The Machine
With driving rhythms and Florence Welch’s powerful vocals, this track will push you out of bed and into action.
Listen on YouTube - “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
A classic song that has a bright melody perfect for waking up with a smile.
Listen on YouTube - “Run the World (Girls)” – Beyoncé
An empowering anthem that sets the tone for a confident, goal-driven day.
Listen on YouTube - “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
With its infectious rhythm, this song embodies joy and optimism—perfect for mornings.
Listen on YouTube - “Good Morning” – Kanye West
Kanye’s laid-back flow and smooth build make this track a gentle but motivating wake-up call.
Listen on YouTube - “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves
An upbeat song that instantly brightens your mood and makes you feel like dancing.
Listen on YouTube - “On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons
A triumphant track that makes you feel like you can take on anything your day throws at you.
Listen on YouTube - “Rise” – Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s anthem of resilience is a powerful song to fuel your morning motivation.
Listen on YouTube - “Best Day of My Life” – American Authors
With its catchy chorus, this track is perfect for starting your day on a positive note.
Listen on YouTube - “Shake It Off” – Taylor Swift
A high-energy pop track that encourages you to let go of negativity and start fresh.
Listen on YouTube - “Roar” – Katy Perry
An empowering anthem that gets your energy flowing and boosts your confidence.
Listen on YouTube - “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Funky beats and fun lyrics will make you want to dance your way out of bed.
Listen on YouTube - “Stronger” – Kanye West
This high-energy track pushes you to start your day strong and keep going.
Listen on YouTube - “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
A classic anthem of perseverance, guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
Listen on YouTube - “Brave” – Sara Bareilles
A track that inspires you to face the day boldly and confidently.
Listen on YouTube - “Titanium” – David Guetta ft. Sia
With empowering lyrics and a driving beat, this track will have you feeling unstoppable.
Listen on YouTube - “Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
Freddie Mercury’s energy will lift you up and get you ready to tackle the day ahead.
Listen on YouTube - “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
An energetic classic that makes you feel like you can conquer anything.
Listen on YouTube - “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun
Its ethereal, yet energizing sound makes it perfect for morning motivation.
Listen on YouTube - “Dancing Queen” – ABBA
This disco hit will make you feel like royalty as you start your day with joy.
Listen on YouTube - “Just Like Fire” – P!nk
P!nk’s powerful voice and uplifting tempo will light a fire under you to start the day.
Listen on YouTube - “Jerusalema” – Master KG ft. Nomcebo ZikodeThis global hit combines infectious beats with uplifting lyrics that inspire joy and dance. It’s perfect for starting your day on a high note.Listen on YouTube
- “Banana” – Conkarah ft. ShaggyA fun and catchy tune that will instantly lift your spirits and get you moving, making it a great addition to any morning playlist.Listen on YouTube
- “Asimbonanga” – Johnny CleggThis classic song not only carries a powerful message but also features an uplifting melody that will inspire you to embrace the day.Listen on YouTube
Experts Consulted
- Dr. David M. Greenberg: Music psychologist and leading expert on the effects of music on mood and behavior. His work, in collaboration with Spotify, focuses on creating the perfect playlist for various emotional states and daily routines, including morning wake-ups.
- Spotify Curators: The platform’s playlist creators work alongside experts like Greenberg to build scientifically-backed playlists that improve mood, focus, and energy.
Final Thoughts
Adding these carefully curated songs to your morning playlist may not only enhance your wake-up routine but also positively impact your mood and mental health. The combination of motivating tempos, uplifting lyrics, and positive melodies will help you start the day with the energy and confidence to succeed.
But this list is by no means exhaustive! I’d love to hear what you think, especially from the younger generations—what are your favorite wake-up songs? Did I nail it with my selection, or do you have other tracks that get you out of bed feeling ready to take on the world, even during stressful times? Drop your song recommendations in the comments, and let’s build the ultimate morning playlist together. Your go-to tracks could help someone else find the perfect song to start their day right!
