Jan. 24 is often cited as the most depressing day of the year, a fact highlighted by sources such as an article on PsychCentral.com .
In addition, the third Monday of January is infamously known …
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Jan. 24 is often cited as the most depressing day of the year, a fact highlighted by sources such as an article on PsychCentral.com.
In addition, the third Monday of January is infamously known as "Blue Monday," another contender for the title.
The "January Blues" are a real phenomenon for many — those lonely landscapes, gray skies, brown grass and the bitter chill can make the days feel shorter and less cheerful. That's why our Spotify playlist this month is packed with songs that will lift your spirits.
We all know that moving around can help boost your mood, but did you know that singing can do wonders, too? According to an article on Opera North's website from February 2023, singing triggers the release of "happy" chemicals like endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which help elevate your mood. It also improves lung function and encourages relaxation, making it a great tool for stress management. Singing in a group fosters connection, self-expression and confidence. Whether for fun or therapy, singing can uplift both your body and mind. The best part? You don't have to be a professional to reap the benefits. Bonus feel-good points if you throw in a little dance while serenading your kitchen spices or pets.
Our playlist this month features a mix of classic and new tracks chosen at random, but it's by no means exhaustive. So, without further ado, here are 30 songs to add to your feel-good playlist.
If a song can open an episode of Doctor Who, it’s good enough for any playlist. Electric Light Orchestra’s "Mr. Blue Sky" is the musical equivalent of a sunny day breaking through storm clouds. The cheerful lyrics and upbeat tempo celebrate the arrival of good weather after a gloomy spell, making it a metaphor for finding joy after sadness. Layered harmonies, joyful strings, and a quirky vocoder outro make this track a delight to sing along to, lifting spirits and energizing even the darkest winter days.
Bruno Mars brings pure party vibes with "24K Magic," a funky anthem of confidence, luxury, and living your best life. The infectious rhythm and retro beats make it impossible not to dance, and belting out its swagger-filled lyrics is a guaranteed mood booster. It’s the perfect soundtrack for shaking off the winter blahs and bringing the heat back into your life.
Chappell Roan’s "HOT TO GO!" is a vibrant, unapologetically fun pop song that radiates high-energy empowerment. Roan’s dynamic vocals and colorful production make it a celebration of self-love and freedom. The song’s danceability and catchy chorus encourage you to get moving, reminding you that even in the middle of winter, you can bring the heat wherever you go. Be sure to learn the dance.
Few songs are as universally beloved as TOTO’s "Africa." Its soaring melodies, heartfelt lyrics and intricate instrumentation create a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Singing along to this song feels like embarking on an adventure to far-off lands, making it perfect for escaping winter doldrums. Plus, who can resist shouting "I bless the rains down in Africa" with their whole heart?
You may remember this song from a Six Flags commercial featuring a certain old man. "We Like to Party" is a Eurodance classic that’s pure, unfiltered fun. The repetitive, bouncy beat and carefree lyrics are designed to make you smile and move. Perfect for shaking off cabin fever, it’s a reminder to embrace the silliness and joy of life, even when the weather is dreary.
No feel-good playlist is complete without Journey’s "Don't Stop Believin’." A timeless anthem of hope and perseverance, the song feels like a motivational speech set to soaring rock melodies. The story-driven lyrics inspire you to hold on through life’s challenges, and its powerful build-up to the unforgettable chorus makes it a favorite for singalongs. It's impossible to stay down when this song is playing.
Whether it’s nostalgia or the irresistible combination of Carlos Santana’s sultry guitar riffs and Rob Thomas’s soulful vocals, "Smooth" brings an undeniable groove. The steamy vibe brings the heat of a summer evening straight into the coldest winter day. Singing along to its iconic chorus and vibing to the Latin-inspired rhythms feels like wrapping yourself in warmth and rhythm.
Dreaming of escaping to a tropical paradise? Close your eyes and drift away to the mellow sounds of The Beach Boys’ "Kokomo." The song delivers an auditory vacation, with breezy harmonies and laid-back island vibes transporting listeners to sandy shores and warm breezes, no matter how cold it is outside. Close your eyes and sing along—you’ll practically feel the sun on your face. Fun fact, according to Dr. Michael Bonshor, a university professor in London with a PHD in music psychology, “Good Vibrations” should be the number one choice for a song that will make you happy. Do you agree?
Toby Keith’s "I Love This Bar" perfectly captures the comfort of familiarity. With its relaxed, storytelling vibe, the song feels like catching up with old friends in your favorite cozy spot. Its singable chorus and relatable charm make it a great pick for a feel-good anthem.
My Chemical Romance’s "SING" is a passionate plea to raise your voice for the world. With its driving beat and emotionally charged lyrics, the song encourages listeners to overcome hardships and haters and find strength in self-expression. It’s cathartic, empowering and perfect for singing away the winter blues.
This '90s classic is an anthem of frustration, hope, and resilience. Linda Perry’s powerful vocals and raw, relatable lyrics make "What’s Up" a go-to for singing your heart out. Who hasn’t been confused, disheartened and utterly done with everything, just wanting to scream? Whether reflecting on life or belting the iconic "Hey-ey-ey-ey," the song turns winter gloom into a cathartic release. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together, and sometimes shouting into the void feels pretty great.
Karmin’s "Pulses" pulses with energy. The catchy beats and rhythmic vocals make it an irresistible anthem to shake off gloom. As couple Nick and Amy Noonan sing, they want to “make sure that you feel alive.” The quirky wordplay and vibrant delivery feel like a sonic wake-up call, encouraging you to let loose and embrace life’s chaotic rhythm.
Even if you’re not a video game fan, music written for games or inspired by them can pack a punch. "POP/STARS" by K/DA is a virtual K-pop masterpiece that oozes confidence and power. With its electrifying beat and dynamic vocals, the song reminds you to channel your inner champion. Singing along feels like you’re conquering the world, whether or not you understand all the lyrics. "Legends Never Die" by League of Legends is another powerful track that will boost your mood.
This funky, futuristic track is a burst of adrenaline. The Beastie Boys’ playful rhymes and infectious energy are a surefire way to boost your mood. The song is all about being awesome and forging ahead with what you love, and its intergalactic theme feels like an escape from winter, transporting you to an upbeat, otherworldly dimension.
"One Foot" is all about taking small steps forward, even when life feels heavy. With its driving beat and anthemic chorus, the song doubles as a motivational push. The lyrics — “taking this one step at a time, I got your back if you’ve got mine” — serve as a comforting reminder that you’re not alone in your struggles. Plus, the melody makes it hard not to sing along.
While not my favorite Sabrina Carpenter song, I find myself humming and singing along to "Espresso" at random. Just like its namesake, it’s a jolt of energy. Carpenter’s cheeky, upbeat lyrics and the lively tempo make it the perfect pick-me-up on dreary days. Singing along feels like sipping on a shot of espresso for your soul.
Fastball’s "The Way" features a nostalgic, breezy melody that’s become a feel-good classic. The enigmatic lyrics leave plenty to the imagination, while the upbeat instrumentation makes it a road trip favorite. The song feels like sunshine cutting through the clouds. Sometimes, we don’t quite know “where” we’re going, and we certainly don’t always know “the way.”
Quirky, bold and unapologetically playful, "Hello Kitty" is Avril Lavigne at her most whimsical. The high-energy beat and fun, offbeat lyrics are impossible to take seriously, making it the perfect distraction from winter doldrums. Though some view the song as controversial, it was created out of Lavigne’s admiration for Japanese culture, similar to Gwen Stefani’s "Harajuku Girls."
With its glittery synth-pop sound, "Shampain" is MARINA’s ode to dancing through melancholy. The bittersweet lyrics, combined with an infectious beat, create a cathartic experience, helping you shake off sadness while embracing the beauty in imperfection. It’s another fun song to belt out and release those deep feelings. The music video even evokes a "Thriller"-like vibe.
I almost chose “Believer,” but there is something about Imagine Dragons’ "Eyes Closed" that is such an uplifting, haunting track that captures the feeling of finding light in the darkness. The powerful vocals and anthemic sound make it an emotional release. Singing along feels like a therapeutic way to process the blues and emerge stronger.
Before I ever heard this song, I was told I would love it — and I do. "Counting Stars" always finds its way onto my workout and feel-good playlists. The song combines a hopeful message with a beat you can’t help but move to. The lyrics encourage letting go of material worries and focusing on what really matters, making it a reflective yet energizing track to drive away the winter blues.
This rock anthem is pure energy in a bottle. With its soaring chorus and triumphant lyrics about perseverance, "Livin’ on a Prayer" is perfect for shouting along when you need a reminder that "we’ll make it, I swear." It’s an instant mood booster, proving there’s no winter gloom a little air guitar can’t fix. This song should be on every feel-good playlist.
A song about how music or a certain song can take you back to a specific memory just feels right. Transport yourself to sunnier times with this classic rock masterpiece. The lush harmonies and powerful guitar riffs evoke a sense of nostalgia that’s both uplifting and comforting. Singing along to its dreamy lyrics is like taking a mini mental vacation from those “January Blues.” Despite releasing only six albums in their career, "More Than a Feeling" is so good it makes you wonder why Boston isn’t in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Inspired by a Korean drinking game called "APT.," ROSÉ and Bruno Mars crafted a playful, lighthearted track blending cultural elements with flirtatious lyrics. The game, which involves chanting "apateu" and stacking hands, became the foundation for a song that turns the game into a metaphor for attraction. ROSÉ’s cheeky lines, like "I’m tryna kiss your lips for real," and Bruno’s party-ready energy, make this a fun and unique way to lift your spirits. Plus, the beat is super catchy.
This bitterly upbeat collaboration dives into the messiness of toxic relationships with sharp dark humor. Post Malone’s lyrics paint a picture of someone spiraling after a breakup, wryly acknowledging his ex’s role in his downfall. With lines like "Don’t act like you ain’t help me pull that bottle off the shelf," he frames the chaos as a twisted kind of teamwork. Morgan Wallen’s soulful contribution amplifies the emotional depth, making this track a cathartic anthem for anyone processing heartbreak. It’s one of the best songs to sing along with your friends as well.
Acknowledging feelings of sadness can be healing so we’re slowing things down for a minute. Tracy Chapman’s iconic "Fast Car" is both heartfelt and hopeful. Its stripped-down storytelling about yearning for a better life resonates on cold, quiet evenings, offering a sense of connection and catharsis. Singing along to its timeless melody is like therapy for the soul and sure to lift your spirits.
Back in the day of burning CDs, this song was on CD I made for over a year. This high-energy hit packs a punch with its defiant lyrics and electrifying beat. Whether channeling frustrations or hyping yourself up, "Let It Rock" delivers the adrenaline rush needed to power through winter blues with confidence and grit. Rudolf’s "I Made It" is also a great feel-good song.
Karmin’s Amy Noonan returns to the list with this track under her new project, Qveen Herby. If you need a self-love anthem, the empowering "MOOD OF THE CENTURY" is here to save the day. With playful lyrics and bold beats, it’s the perfect reminder to strut your stuff — even if your runway is just the hallway. As Noonan says, "It may take a while to get on my feet, but I knew that I would succeed." This track turns cold days into fierce moments.
With its driving beat and larger-than-life lyrics, "Immortals" is the ultimate feel-good song when you need a little superpower energy. It’s impossible not to feel unstoppable when belting out this anthem, which reminds you that nothing can keep you down. The song was also featured in the movie “Big Hero 6,” which, while having a few heavy moments, is also a feel-good film.
This EDM hit flips the classic Eiffel 65 tune (also a feel-good song) into a modern dance anthem full of feel-good vibes. During a few challenging times last year, I found myself blasting this song, repeating its mantra, "I’m good, yeah I’m feeling alright," just to pick myself up. The catchy beat and carefree lyrics make it impossible to sit still, instantly transporting you to a warm, lively party — even if you’re stuck in the cold and gray.
And there you have it — 30 songs to boost your mood. Some may be old favorites, others new discoveries. Either way, sharing music is always a joy. You can check out the full playlist anytime on the GCM Spotify channel at https://tinyurl.com/5ard3yws or by searching Gulf Coast Media on the Spotify app. We'll be adding more throughout 2025, so there's always a perfect soundtrack for any occasion.
What songs are on your feel-good playlist? Email me at whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com, and you might just hear your favorite track featured on our next playlist (spoiler alert: it'll be Valentine's-themed).
And if you're a local artist with original or cover songs on Spotify, let me know so I can highlight and celebrate your talent.
