20 Songs About Overcoming Obstacles

We experience obstacles in our lives every day. Whether it’s a difficult situation at work, or simply getting out of bed in the morning, we all face struggles that can seem insurmountable. But as these songs show, nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it and never give up.

1. “Not Afraid” by Eminem

Eminem - Not Afraid (Official Video)Eminem – Not Afraid (Official Video)

Starting off our list is a song that is all about overcoming obstacles and never giving up. In “Not Afraid”, Eminem talks about his own struggles with addiction and depression, and how he was able to overcome them. It was released in 2010 for the album Hits June 10.

2. “Long Promised Road” by The Beach Boys

Long Promised Road, the Beach BoysLong Promised Road, the Beach Boys

The Beach Boys is a band that has faced many obstacles over the years, from drug addiction to creative differences. But they have always managed to come out on top, and “Long Promised Road” is a perfect example of that. It’s a song about never giving up on your dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.

3. “Stronger” by Sam Feldt, Kesha

Sam Feldt - Stronger (ft. Kesha) [Official Music Video]Sam Feldt – Stronger (ft. Kesha) [Official Music Video]

“Stronger” is a song about overcoming adversity and becoming a better person because of it. It was released in 2021 by Sam Feldt and features vocals from Kesha.

The song is an uplifting anthem and it can be found on his album Stronger. You can stream it on all music platforms out there.

4. “It’s Not Over Yet” by For King and Country

for King & Country - It's Not Over Yet (Lyric Video)for King & Country – It’s Not Over Yet (Lyric Video)

Next on the list is a more recent song, “It’s Not Over Yet” by For King and Country. This anthem of hope was released in 2016 and has since become an inspiration to many.

The lyrics tell the story of a person who has been through tough times but is still standing. You can find it on the album Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong.

5. “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips

Wilson Phillips - Hold On (Official Music Video)Wilson Phillips – Hold On (Official Music Video)

“Hold On” by Wilson Phillips is a 1990s classic that has been covered by many artists over the years. The song is about holding on to hope, even when things seem tough.

It’s a great reminder that better days are always ahead. It is considered as one of his most successful tracks which received numerous nominations for music awards.

6. “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera - Fighter (Official Video)Christina Aguilera – Fighter (Official Video)

Next on the list is “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera. This song is all about overcoming obstacles and becoming a better person because of them.

It’s a great anthem for anyone who has ever felt like they’re fighting an uphill battle. This was released in 2002 for the album Stripped.

7. “Defying Gravity” by Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth

This next song is a duet from the musical Wicked. It’s called “Defying Gravity” and it’s all about overcoming obstacles and reaching for your dreams.

This song is a great reminder that no matter what life throws at you, you can always overcome it. It’s a collaboration between Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth.

8. “Rise” by Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Rise (Official)Katy Perry – Rise (Official)

“Rise” by Katy Perry is a song that was written in response to the 2016 Presidential Election. It’s a song about fighting for what you believe in, even when the odds are against you.

It’s a great anthem for anyone who feels like they’re fighting a losing battle. This song was released in 2016 for the album Power Hits 2016.

9. “Rise Up” by Andra Day

Andra Day - Rise Up (Lyrics)Andra Day – Rise Up (Lyrics)

Andra Day’s voice is so powerful and the lyrics to this song are just as inspiring. It’s a great song to listen to when you need a pick-me-up, or when you’re feeling down about overcoming something. It was released in 2015 for her Cheers to the Fall album.

10. “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar - AlrightKendrick Lamar – Alright

Next on the list is Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright.” This song is also incredibly powerful and motivating. It talks about how no matter what happens in life, everything will be alright in the end.

It was released in 2015 as part of his To Pimp a Butterfly album. It’s one of his most popular songs with over 150 million views on Youtube.

11. “Skyscraper” by Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato - Skyscraper (Official Video)Demi Lovato – Skyscraper (Official Video)

This next song is one of Demi Lovato’s most popular hits. It’s called “Skyscraper” and it’s all about overcoming adversity and being strong. The lyrics are really empowering. It was released in 2011 as part of her Unbroken album.

12. “Hero” by Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey - Hero (Official HD Video)Mariah Carey – Hero (Official HD Video)

Mariah Carey’s “Hero” is another great song about overcoming obstacles. It talks about how anyone can be a hero, even if they feel like they’re not.

It was released in 1993 and it’s one of her most classic hit songs. You can find it on her Music Box album.

13. “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child

Destiny's Child - Survivor (Official Video)Destiny’s Child – Survivor (Official Video)

Next song on the list is “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child. This track was released in 2001 and instantly became one of their most iconic songs.

It now has over 150 million views on Youtube. It’s still widely streamed today even if they already went separate ways.

14. “Move Along” by The All-American Rejects

The All-American Rejects - Move Along (Official Music Video)The All-American Rejects – Move Along (Official Music Video)

“Move Along” is a song by The All-American Rejects, released in 2005. The song is about continuing on with one’s life despite facing difficulties and obstacles.

The lyrics encourage the listener to “keep moving along” and not let the struggles of life hold them back. You can find it on the album Move Along.

15. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus - The ClimbMiley Cyrus – The Climb

This next song is something that you may have heard a million times before. “The Climb” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2009.

The song is about continuing to strive and work hard even when the going gets tough. It was featured on Miley’s popular movie, Hannah Montana: The Movie.

16. “Hall of Fame” by The Script, will.i.am

The Script - Hall of Fame (Official Video) ft. will.i.amThe Script – Hall of Fame (Official Video) ft. will.i.am

“Hall of Fame” is a song by The Script, featuring will.i.am, released in 2012. The song is about following your dreams and believing in yourself even when others doubt you.

It is an inspirational song that encourages listeners to never give up on their dreams. It is one of the tracks under the album #3.

17. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles - Brave (Official Video)Sara Bareilles – Brave (Official Video)

Sara Bareilles’ “Brave” is another great song about overcoming obstacles and being your own person. The lyrics encourage listeners to be brave and stand up for themselves even when they’re afraid. The song was released in 2013 and can be found on the album The Blessed Unrest.

18. “Shake it Out” by Florence + The Machine

Florence + The Machine - Shake It OutFlorence + The Machine – Shake It Out

Next on the list is “Shake it Out” by Florence + The Machine. This song is all about shaking off the past and moving on.

If you’re looking for a song to help you get over a break-up or just move on from a tough time, this is the perfect choice. It was released in 2011 as part of the album Ceremonials.

19. “Remember the Name” by Fort Minor

Remember The Name (Official Video) - Fort MinorRemember The Name (Official Video) – Fort Minor

Fort Minor’s “Remember the Name” is a great choice for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. The song is about making a name for yourself, no matter how hard it might be. It’s the perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they’re fighting an uphill battle.

20. “This Is Me” by Keala Settle

The Greatest Showman | "This Is Me" with Keala Settle | 20th Century FOXThe Greatest Showman | “This Is Me” with Keala Settle | 20th Century FOX

Finishing off the list is “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman soundtrack. This song is all about embracing who you are, even if you don’t fit in.

It’s a perfect song for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong. No matter who you are, this song will speak to you.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the many songs about overcoming obstacles. If you’re facing a difficult time, don’t be afraid to turn to music for inspiration and motivation. There’s sure to be a song out there that can help you get through whatever you’re going through. Thanks for reading!