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First Posted July 30, 2025 | Last Updated on August 12, 2025 by Ryan Conlon

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Happy songs have a special way of lifting our spirits and making even an ordinary day feel brighter.

As a DJ, I’ve seen first-hand how the right track can fill a dance floor, bring a smile to someone’s face, or turn a quiet moment into a celebration.

This list brings together some of my favorite upbeat, feel-good tunes from across decades and genres – songs that are perfect for weddings, parties, road trips, or just adding a burst of positivity to your day.

Feel Good Happy Songs

Whether you want to enjoy upbeat tunes on your way to work or need something more mellow at home, these are some of our favorite picks from across genres and decades.

I have created a list of the top upbeat songs to get your mood lifted. These are some of my personal favorites that I use at my DJ events as well, so feel free to check them out if you need some tunes for your next event, Wedding, or School Dance!

Best Upbeat Happy Songs

These fun upbeat songs are filled with catchy melodies, lively rhythms, and uplifting lyrics that make you feel happy from the very first note.

Whether you’re looking for happy uplifting songs to kick off a celebration, happy party songs for your playlist, or upbeat positive songs to keep you smiling during the workday, these tracks hit the mark.

Each of these happy mood songs is designed to bring energy, joy, and a burst of positivity to any moment – perfect for dancing, singing along, or just turning a regular day into something special.

High-Energy Tracks to Keep You Smiling

  1. Bob Marley & The Wailers – Three Little Birds
  2. Michael Bublé – It’s A Beautiful Day
  3. Billy Idol – Dancing With Myself
  4. Paul Simon – You Can Call Me Al
  5. Cascada – Everytime We Touch
  6. Rusted Root – Send Me on My Way
  7. Lionel Richie – All Night Long
  8. Chris Brown – Forever
  9. Eddie Murphy – Party All the Time
  10. Taio Cruz – Dynamite
  11. Mat Kearney – Hey Mama
  12. Icona Pop – I Love It
  13. Bobby McFerrin – Don’t Worry Be Happy
  14. Vengaboys – We like to Party!
  15. Van Halen – Dance The Night Away
  16. Martin Solveig & Dragonette – Hello
  17. Starship – Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now
  18. Katrina & The Waves – Walking On Sunshine

Three young people jumping and smiling outdoors, with the text "Best Happy Songs" and a "Your Music Depot" logo at the bottom.

Songs have a tremendous impact on our mood, and it’s not surprising given the rich history and content that these good songs exude.

Along with well-known others, artists devote a lot of time and effort to creating songs that contain words and lyrics that resonate with us and touch on themes such as love, friendship, and the pursuit of a good life.

Fun Fact – The most common instrument used in a happy song is the piano, with over 80% of all happy songs featuring it.

Bob Marley & The Wailers – Three Little Birds

The lyrics speak of three little birds singing a sweet song outside the window, reminding the singer not to worry about a thing because everything is going to be alright.

Bob Marley’s song has become an iconic hit that transcends generational barriers and has been covered by many artists.

Overall, Bob Marley & The Wailers’ continues to inspire and uplift people all over the world with its joyful message of hope and positivity.


New Happy Songs

Every year brings a fresh wave of new upbeat rhythms that keep our playlists feeling lively and up-to-date.

These tracks blend modern production with feel-good energy, delivering the same mood-lifting power as the classics.

Fresh Releases That Bring Joy

  1. Meghan Trainor – Better When I’m Dancin’
  2. Sigala, Mae Muller, Caity Baser – Feels This Good
  3. Saweetie – Best Friend
  4. MACKLEMORE – NEXT YEAR
  5. BTS – Butter
  6. Imogen Heap – The Happy Song
  7. Connor Price & Walker Hayes – Happier
  8. Joel Corry x MNEK – Head & Heart
  9. T-Pain – Booty Wurk (2011)
  10. Calvin Harris – Stay With Me
  11. Megan Thee Stallion – Body
  12. Dixie D’Amelio – One Whole Day
  13. Ben Platt – Imagine
  14. MACKLEMORE – NO BAD DAYS
  15. Justin Bieber – Peaches
  16. Cardi B – Up
  17. Doja Cat – Kiss Me More
  18. 24kGoldn – Mood
  19. Lil Nas X – MONTERO
  20. Coldplay – Higher Power
  21. Masked Wolf – Astronaut In The Ocean
  22. Andy Grammer – Damn It Feels Good To Be Me

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Feel-good anthems are the perfect mood boosters, especially when they capture the essence of friends laughing and having fun together, like in the feel-good anthem “Good As Hell” by Lizzo or the upbeat “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper.

Meghan Trainor – Better When I’m Dancin’

Meghan Trainor’s Better When I’m Dancin’ is the kind of upbeat track that instantly puts you in a good mood.

Originally featured on The Peanuts Movie soundtrack, this happy uplifting song blends pop hooks with tropical beats, creating an irresistible feel that makes you want to move.

Whether it’s on your happy mood songs playlist or playing at a party, Better When I’m Dancin’ proves that sometimes the best way to be happy is simply to get up and dance.


Happy Dance Songs

When it’s time to get on your feet, nothing beats a playlist full of happy dancing songs.

These tracks combine irresistible beats, catchy hooks, and joyful lyrics to keep the energy high from the first note to the last.

Whether you’re hosting a party, hitting the dance floor at a wedding, or just letting loose at home, these fun upbeat songs will keep the smiles going and the feet moving.

Feel-Good Tracks to Get You Moving

  1. Ricky Martin – La Vida Loca’
  2. Mark Ronson Uptown Funk
  3. Taylor Swift – Shake it Off
  4. Sly & The Family Stone – Dance To The Music
  5. Usher – Yeah!
  6. The Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling
  7. PSY – Gangnam Style
  8. Lou Bega – Mambo No. 5
  9. Connie Francis – Pretty Little Baby
  10. Cupid – Cupid Shuffle
  11. Mr C – Cha Cha Slide
  12. UNK – Walk It Out
  13. Daft Punk – One More Time
  14. Bubba Sparxx – Ms New Booty
  15. Ying Yang Twins – Salt Shaker
  16. Robin Thicke – Blurred Lines
  17. Shakira – Hips Don’t Lie
  18. Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling
  19. Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody

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When looking for the best songs to add a much-needed pick me up to your day, a music video with a catchy tune, high energy, and good vibrations is just what you need.

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield and “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen are two examples of mood-boosting songs that have become instant hits, while “Shake It” by Metro Station is perfect for those who want to have fun and dance.

Ricky Martin – La Vida Loca’

Ricky Martin’s life was a little bit crazy. He had to go through many trials and tribulations before he became the international star that we all know him as today, but it wasn’t without its rewards.

His music has helped people around the world connect with their own culture by exposing them to his passionate Latin roots; this is evident in tracks like “La Vida Loca” (The Crazy Life).


Happy Love Songs

You usually think about Slow Songs when you talk about love songs but these upbeat tunes may help you feel a little better on those tough days.

Romantic Tunes That Spark Happiness

  1. Huey Lewis & the News – The Power of Love
  2. Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are
  3. Spice Girls – 2 Become 1
  4. Gym Class Heroes – Stereo Hearts
  5. Jason Mraz – I’m Yours
  6. Kane Brown – Worship You
  7. Jake Owen – Made For You
  8. Justin Bieber – Holy
  9. Blake Shelton – Nobody But You
  10. Beyoncé – Crazy In Love
  11. Russell Dickerson – Yours
  12. Blake Shelton – God Gave Me You
  13. Ed Sheeran – Afterglow
  14. Michael Jackson – The Way You Make Me Feel
  15. The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)

A couple smiles and dances closely in a warmly lit setting, with the text "Happy Love Songs" and the "Your Music Depot" logo at the bottom, capturing the joy found in Happy Songs.

These positive and bright tunes have the power to make us feel amazing, as we soak in the beautiful melodies and the happy people around us.

With every note and every word, we can’t help but laugh, dance, and sing along, feeling alive and grateful for all the positivity and joy that surrounds us.

Huey Lewis & the News – The Power of Love

Huey Lewis & the News’s The Power of Love is one song that never seems to go away, no matter how many times you hear it on the radio or see it in commercials.

You’ll be humming this catchy melody for days afterwards every time you catch yourself reminiscing about your high school dance or thinking about someone special back home who made all those easy-to-remember lyrics come true.


What are the Best Wake Up Songs?

What do the best wake up songs have in common? They are catchy, they get you out of bed and on your feet.

Start Your Day Right with These Energizing Songs

  1. Avicii – Wake Me Up
  2. Ke$ha – TiK ToK
  3. Wisin & Yandel – Algo Me Gusta De Ti
  4. Bob Marley – Could You Be Loved
  5. Imagine Dragons – On Top of the World
  6. Andy Grammer – Honey, I’m Good
  7. New Politics – Harlem
  8. Paul Simon – Graceland
  9. Ella Fitzgerald – Accentuate The Positive
  10. 3 Speaker High – Make Me Wanna Dance
  11. Sheppard – Geronimo
  12. Bill Withers – Lovely Day
  13. American Authors – Best Day Of My Life
  14. Grouplove – “Ways to Go”
  15. Edward Maya – Stereo Love
  16. Mötley Crüe – Kickstart My Heart
  17. Gym Class Heroes – Ass Back Home (Panic City Remix)

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You may be asking yourself “What is my favorite way to start a day?” You want something that will help jump start your morning with some energy!

The answer: music.

When you need an extra boost for that early-morning workout or just feel like rocking all through Sunday brunch, turn on these happy tunes from Beach Boys, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Mark Ronson, Whitney Houston, Avicii, and Andy Grammer.

Avicii – Wake Me Up

The Swedish House Mafia are great at making music that will get people up and dancing. They have the perfect song for you when you need to wake yourself or someone else up before their alarm clock goes off in the morning.

Wake Me Up” by Avicii is an electronic dance tune with a catchy beat, high tempo, and enough energy to make any early bird want to bounce out of bed as soon as they hear it play on shuffle mode!


Happy Uplifting Songs to Sing-A-Long To

If you’re looking for some of the best happy Sing-A-Long, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite happy tracks that will keep your energy up and make your mood soar!

Joyful Tracks You’ll Love to Belt Out

  1. Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’
  2. Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline
  3. John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads
  4. Outkast – Hey Ya!
  5. Spice Girls – Wannabe
  6. Miley Cyrus Party in the U.S.A.
  7. Fountains of Wayne – Stacy’s Mom
  8. Taylor Swift – You Belong to Me
  9. Nelly – Dilemma
  10. Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way
  11. Aqua – Barbie Girl
  12. ABBA – Dancing Queen
  13. Kelly Clarkson – Since U Been Gone
  14. Smash Mouth – All Star
  15. Justin Bieber – Baby
  16. WALK THE MOON – Shut Up and Dance

Three people singing closely together, appearing enthusiastic, with the text "Happy Songs to Sing-A-Long" overlaid.

Experience an instant mood lift by singing along to these joyful tunes!

From the catchy beats of “Can’t Stop the Feeling” to the uplifting lyrics of “Don’t Worry be Happy,” this playlist will get you feeling great in no time.

Other feel-good classics like “Happy” and “Uptown Funk” also feature, along with timeless hits like “Dancing Queen” and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.” So turn up the volume, sing out loud, and let happiness fill your day!

Journey Don’t Stop Believin’

“Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey is one of my favorite songs. The lyrics are about being steadfast and continuing to go on in the face of adversity, which I think everyone can empathize with at some point or another. It’s a motivating song that helps me keep going when things get tough!


Happy Drinking Songs

Happy drinking songs are always a good time, no matter who you’re with.

With catchy lyrics and fun beats to sing along too, these great tunes will get everyone at the party on their feet!

It’s not only about how much alcohol is in your drink but what kind of music accompanies it as well.

Cheerful Tunes for Toasts and Good Times

  1. 4OnTheFloor – I’m Drunk On Tuesdays
  2. Chumbawamba – Tubthumping
  3. Luke Bryan – One Margarita
  4. Trey Songz – Bottoms Up
  5. Dierks Bentley – Drunk On A Plane
  6. LMFAO – Shots
  7. Jamie Foxx – Blame It
  8. Toby Keith – I Love This Bar
  9. T-Pain – Bartender
  10. Darius Rucker – Beers And Sunshine
  11. Little Big Town – Day Drinking
  12. Brad Paisley – Alcohol
  13. Old Dominion – Beer Can in a Truck Bed
  14. Billy Currington – Pretty Good At Drinkin’ Beer
  15. Rupert Holmes – Escape (the Pina Colada Song)

Three people smiling and drinking at a bar with the text "Happy Drinking Songs," bringing together the best Happy Songs, and the "Your Music Depot" logo at the bottom.

So whether you’re gearing up for an impromptu dance-off or just want something more upbeat than pop radio hits playing while people socialize around dinner tables, this playlist has got all sorts of happy hour favorites that’ll make any evening feel like Friday night – even if its Tuesday.

4OnTheFloor – I’m Drunk On Tuesdays

4OnTheFloor is a Minnesota-based band that has been around since 2008.

They have four studio albums to their name, with “I’m Drunk On Tuesdays” being the latest one released in April of 2019.

Chumbawamba – Tubthumping

I can’t help but feel inspired by a song that’s been stuck in my head. The lyrics “I get knocked down” are so powerful and gives me strength to keep going like nothing else can.

It then conversely says “But I’ll get up again.” Chumbawamba’s Tubthumping is a powerful anthem that energizes listeners, urging them to join the rowdy chorus.


Conclusion

These songs have the power to lift our spirits, boost our mood, and make us happy.

Whether it’s the upbeat melodies, catchy lyrics, or infectious rhythms, songs have the ability to bring joy and happiness into our daily lives.

From classic hits to modern chart-toppers, there is no shortage of music that can put a smile on our faces. So next time you’re feeling down, turn up the volume on your favorite songs about happiness and let the good vibes flow.


Frequently Asked Questions

What are some songs that make people happy?

Some of the most popular songs include “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves, “Good as Hell” by Lizzo, and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake. These tracks have upbeat tempos, positive lyrics, and melodies designed to boost your mood.

What is the best song to make you happy?

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams is one of the most famous mood-boosting tracks, but other great choices include “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers, and “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas. The best happy song depends on your personal taste and what kind of music lifts your spirits.

What makes a song sound happy?

Songs that make you happy usually feature major keys, upbeat tempos, and uplifting lyrics. Instruments like acoustic guitar, brass, and bright synths, along with energetic rhythms, create a sense of positivity and joy in the listener.

What are some happy upbeat songs?

Happy upbeat songs include “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift, “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake, and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston. These tracks combine energetic beats with cheerful melodies.

What are the most popular happy songs of all time?

Some of the most iconic happy songs ever recorded are “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen, “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys, “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, and “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang.


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