20 Songs About Changing the World

It’s no secret that the world is in need of some serious change. Everywhere you look, there are problems that seem impossible to solve. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like there’s nothing you can do to make a difference.

These 20 songs about changing the world will give you the inspiration and motivation you need to make a difference. They’ll remind you that even if the task ahead seems insurmountable, it’s important to keep fighting for what you believe in.

1. “Change the World” by Eric Clapton

The first song on this list is an iconic track by Eric Clapton. “Change the World” was originally written for the film Phenomenon, but it ended up becoming one of Clapton’s most well-known songs.

The lyrics are all about making a change in the world, no matter how small. Every little bit helps and this song is a great reminder of that.

2. “One Man Can Change the World” by Big Sean (featuring Kanye West & John Legend)

Sean brings Kanye West and John Legend on this affecting tune as he contemplates the people who have positively impacted his life.

He realizes that he wants to be one of those people, and with the right mindset, anyone has the potential to make a difference. You can find it on Sean’s Dark Sky Paradise album.

3. “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan

Released in 1963, “Blowin’ in the Wind” is one of Dylan’s most famous and iconic tracks. The song addresses a number of social issues, including racism, war, and poverty.

It’s a powerful reminder that we need to stand up and fight for what’s right if we want to see a change in the world.

4. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke

Here’s another classic track that talks about making a change in the world. Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” was released in 1964, Cooke was motivated to compose a song that addressed his personal experience and those around him, with a focus on the Civil Rights Movement and African Americans. This message of hope is evident in the lyrics, which have been quoted by many individuals over the years.

5. “Be the Change” by MC Yogi

This upbeat track by MC Yogi is all about taking action and making a difference in the world. The lyrics are empowering and encourage listeners to be the change they want to see. This song is perfect for anyone looking for a pick-me-up or some motivation to make a difference.

6. “Heal the World” by Michael Jackson

Of course, we wouldn’t forget about the King of Pop when it comes to songs about global change. Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World” was released in 1992 and features a strong message of peace, love, and unity. The lyrics urge listeners to make a change in the world and heal it with their love.

7. “Earth Song” by Harry Belafonte

Literally meaning “the song of the planet Earth”, Harry Belafonte’s “Earth Song” is a moving piece that talks about the need to protect our planet. The lyrics paint a picture of a world that is being destroyed by humans and beg us to change our ways before it’s too late.

8. “Same Love” by Macklemore & Ryan (featuring Mary Lambert)

Reciprocating the same love that was given to him, Macklemore sings about his support for gay rights and equality on this anthemic track. Featuring soulful vocals by Mary Lambert, “Same Love” urges listeners to open their minds and hearts to love regardless of gender.

In the United States, the song was used as an official campaign anthem for Washington state’s same-sex marriage law.

9. “If I Ruled the World” by MILCK

“If I Ruled the World” was written by MILCK as a peaceful protest anthem. The hopeful track imagines a world where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of race or gender.

With its stirring lyrics and angelic vocals, “If I Ruled the World” is a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to make positive changes in the world.

10. “Imagine” by John Lennon

You would know “Imagine” is on this list as soon as you read the title. The lyrics of this classic song are a plea for peace and unity, urging listeners to imagine a world without borders or division. Though it was released over 50 years ago, “Imagine” remains a relevant and moving anthem for change.

11. “Keep Changing the World” by Mikeschair

Mikeschair is a Christian rock band with a message of hope and change. On “Keep Changing the World”, the band urges listeners to use their unique talents and abilities to make a difference in the world.

With its anthemic chorus and uplifting message, “Keep Changing the World” is a song that will inspire you to actually take action.

12. “That’s How You Change the World” by Newsboys

This 2013 pop worship song from the Newsboys is all about being the change you want to see in the world. The lyrics talk about how love can change everything and how we should be agents of that change. It’s a hopeful, anthemic song that will inspire you to make a difference.

13. “Waiting On the World to Change” by John Mayer

John Mayer is known for his pop and blues songs, but this 2006 track has a more folk-rock sound. It’s a beautiful song about how young people want to change the world but feel powerless to do so. The lyrics express frustration with the state of the world but ultimately end on a note of hope.

14. “We Are the World” by USA for Africa

The song was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and features vocals from some of the biggest names in music at the time, including Billie Joel, Stevie Wonder, and Kenny Rogers.

The song was recorded to raise money for famine relief in Africa and ended up raising over $75 million. It’s still as popular and relevant today as it was when it was released in 1985.

15. “Change the World” by Westlife

Westlife’s 1999 ballad “Change the World” is a plea for peace and love. The lyrics talk about how we can make a difference in the world if we just open our hearts and minds. It’s a beautiful, uplifting song that will leave you feeling hopeful about the future.

16. “We’re All in This Together” by Ben Lee

This 2005 song from Australian singer-songwriter Ben Lee is all about unity and coming together to make a difference.

The lyrics talk about how we’re all in this world together and how we need to help each other out. It’s a positive, uplifting song that will inspire you to be the change you want to see in the world.

17. “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” by Johnny Reid

A feel-good anthem about striving to make a difference, “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” is ideal for anyone who’s looking to pick themselves up and do something good.

The lyrics are simple but effective, and Johnny Reid’s raspy voice gives the song an extra sense of urgency.

18. “People Help the People” by Birdy

A haunting ballad with a message of hope, “People Help the People” is a song for anyone who’s feeling lost and alone. The lyrics are beautiful and Birdy’s voice is angelic, making this one of the most moving songs on this list. You can find it on their self-titled album released in 2011.

19. “Wind Of Change” by Scorpions

In this song, the Scorpions talk about the fall of communism and the hope for a better future. “Wind of Change” is an anthem for anyone who’s fighting for change, and it’s sure to give you goosebumps. It was released in 1991 on their album Crazy World.

20. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley

Wrapping up our list is “Redemption Song” by the one and only Bob Marley. This song is about freedom and resistance, and it’s as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1980. Marley’s voice is soulful and powerful, making this an unforgettable tune.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, 20 songs about changing the world. These songs are sure to inspire you to make a difference, and they’ll provide the perfect soundtrack for your journey.

Making a difference in the world can seem like a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that every little bit counts. So get out there and make a difference!