Life is full of changes, from puberty to the first time in school or the first day at work.
People crave and fear them, but it is undeniable that for progress to occur, changes must follow in certain places of our lives.
Sometimes, we might think that what is currently happening to us is not for our best, but in the bigger picture it could be,
In today’s post, we bring you the 31 best songs of all time, in our opinion, that talk about change in the lives of people and society.
Table of Contents
- 1. “Imagine” by John Lennon
- 2. “Changes” by David Bowie
- 3. “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
- 4. “One Man Can Change the World” by Big Sean ft. Kanye West and John Legend
- 5. “Wind of Change” by Scorpions
- 6. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson.
- 7. “Solsbury Hill” by Peter Gabriel
- 8. “The Times They Are-a-Changin” by Bob Dylan
- 9. “Change” by Tracy Chapman
- 10. “Landslide” by Dixie Chicks
- 11. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
- 12. “Tonight, Tonight” by Smashing Pumpkins
- 13. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
- 14. “Where Is the Love” by Black Eyed Peas
- 15. “Change The World” by Eric Clapton
- 16. “100 Years” by Five For Fighting
- 17. “Regime Change” by Disciple
- 18. “Changes” by 2Pac
- 19. “Waiting On The World to Change” by John Mayer
- 20. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
- 21. “My Life” by Billy Joel
- 22. “One” by U2
- 23. “One Love” by Bob Marley
- 24. “If You’re Out There” by John Legend
- 25. “I Want to Break Free” by Queen
- 26. “Change” by Blind Melon
- 27. “Change” by Taylor Swift
- 28. “We Never Change” by Coldplay
- 29. “Change” by Christina Aguilera
- 30. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
- 31. “I Can” by Nas
1. “Imagine” by John Lennon
“Imagine” by John Lennon is a song about change and peace.
The lyrics encourage listeners to imagine a world without possessions, hunger, or greed.
Lennon asks people to consider what it would be like if everyone lived in peace and harmony.
He believes that this is possible and encourages others to join him in his dream for a better world.
2. “Changes” by David Bowie
“Changes” by David Bowie is about change and how it is inevitable.
The lyrics talk about how time changes everything and how we must adapt to the changes to survive.
The song is also about how people never really change, no matter how much time passes.
Bowie was inspired to write this song after seeing a documentary about a tribe in Africa that was going through changes due to modernization.
3. “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
The lyrics of “Hold On” By Wilson Phillips are about not giving up, even when things are tough.
They inspires the listener in some way to hold on for one more day because things will eventually get better.
Despite the pain and hardship that they may be currently experiencing, things can change for the better if they just hang in there a little longer.
There is hope for a better tomorrow, and the track wants to remind the listener of that.
4. “One Man Can Change the World” by Big Sean ft. Kanye West and John Legend
Hope and determination is the topic of “One Man Could Change the World”.
The lyrics encourage the listener to never give up on their dreams, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
The song also stresses the importance of helping others and giving back, saying that one person can make a difference in the world.
5. “Wind of Change” by Scorpions
“Wind of Change” is a track by Scorpions that was released in 1990.
The lyrics are very political, with some people thinking that it relates to the fall of communism and the hope for change in the world.
The song has been used in many political campaigns, including Nelson Mandela’s campaign to end apartheid in South Africa.
Also, the tune has been used in popular culture, including many shows and films.
6. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson.
This song is about making a change in oneself to make the world a better place.
Its lyrics talk about how someone can be blind to the needs of others, and how selfishness can get in the way of love.
“Man in the Mirror” encourages listeners to “take a look at themselves and then make a change.”
Jackson’s track is an empowerment anthem that asks individuals to hold themselves accountable to create a domino effect of change.
He starts with the “man in the mirror” because he believes that if we all take a good, hard look at ourselves then we can begin to make the changes we need to see in the world.
7. “Solsbury Hill” by Peter Gabriel
“Solsbury Hill” by Peter Gabriel is a song about making a fresh start in life no matter in what stage we find ourselves.
The lyrics tell the story of someone who has been stuck in a rut but decides to make a change and “grab their things” to go home.
Also, they are about following your heart, as the narrator says “my heart going ‘boom-boom-boom'”.
This is a track about taking risks and making changes, even if it means leaving everything behind at whatever cost it happens to be.
8. “The Times They Are-a-Changin” by Bob Dylan
“The Times They Are-a-Changin'” is a song written by Bob Dylan and released on his 1964 album of the same name.
The song is one of Dylan’s most famous and influential and has been covered by many artists.
Its lyrics call for social change, urging people to take action against the injustices of the time.
Dylan uses simple language to deliver his message, which makes the song accessible and easy to understand by everyone.
Despite being written over 50 years ago, the lyrics of “The Times They Are-a-Changin” are just as relevant today as they were when Dylan first wrote them.
It’s a reminder that change is possible, and that we all have the power to make a difference.
9. “Change” by Tracy Chapman
Making changes in life is the start point for Tracy Chapman’s “Change.”
The lyrics talk about how if you knew you were going to die, or if you saw the face of God and love, would you change the things you’re doing that might not be leading to a good outcome?
It also asks what it would take for someone to make a change – how bad does it need to get before they’re willing to change?
The song talks about how changing can be hard, but sometimes it’s necessary to lead a better life.
10. “Landslide” by Dixie Chicks
The lyrics of “Landslide” by Dixie Chicks reflect on the fear of change and how it can cause us to build our lives around certain things or people.
Over time, however, things inevitably change – children grow older, we age – and this can be scary.
The song asks whether we can handle the seasons of our lives, even when they bring difficult changes.
In the end, the singer suggests that sometimes change can be good, even if it’s brought about by something as destructive as a landslide.
11. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
“Redemption Song” is a song by Bob Marley about emancipation and freedom.
Its lines explain how people can be enslaved mentally and physically, but they have the power to free themselves.
In addition, the song talks about how people should stand up for what is right, even if it means going against the grain.
Some of the core lines are based on a speech made by Pan-Africanist orator Marcus Garvey titled “The Work That Has Been Done.”
Garvey was a Jamaican political leader who advocated for black empowerment and independence.
He inspired many people, including Bob Marley, with his speeches and writings.
12. “Tonight, Tonight” by Smashing Pumpkins
The lyrics to “Tonight, Tonight” by Smashing Pumpkins are about how time is never really time at all.
You can never leave without leaving a piece of youth behind and our lives are forever changed.
As you change and evolve, the less you’re likely to feel and you’ll see things way more differently.
The track is urging people to believe in themselves and others and that anything is possible if they just hold themselves up to the light.
13. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
This is also a song about hope and change and about how hard life can be, but how things will eventually improve.
The singer dialogs about how he’s been running from something his whole life, but he knows that change is going to come.
Its lyrics also explore how sometimes it seems like things will never get better, but they always do in the end.
14. “Where Is the Love” by Black Eyed Peas
Black Eyed Peas’s “Where is the love” is a dissertation about the state of the world and how it seems that love is lacking.
The lyrics ask where the love is, both in general and specifically in terms of people killing and hurting each other.
The song also speaks to how humanity has lost its way, with people being more interested in money and power than in helping others.
Regardless of all this, the song concludes on an optimistic note. with the singer saying that they will keep their faith alive until love is found.
15. “Change The World” by Eric Clapton
This song is about having the power to change the world and make a difference, and actually being able to do so.
Its lyrics talk about how love can change everything and make it better.
They also express a hope for a better future where we can all be happy and free.
Furthermore, the lyrics tell us that we should never give up on our dreams and that we should always strive to make them a reality.
We can change the world if we believe in ourselves and our ability to do so.
16. “100 Years” by Five For Fighting
In this song, Five for Fighting sings about making the most of your life, even when it feels like time is running out.
The lyrics talk about how someone can feel like they’re 15 one moment and then suddenly be much older, but that there’s still time to enjoy life.
Even when things are tough, the song encourages listeners to keep going and make the most of their time.
These lyrics mean that we should all try to enjoy our lives as much as possible because time goes by quickly and we never know when it will end.
It’s important to spend time with the people we love and do things that make us happy.
We should also be grateful for every moment, even the tough ones, because they all add up to our life experiences.
17. “Regime Change” by Disciple
The lyrics to “Regime Change” by Disciple are about a person who is sick of the current state of affairs and wants to see a change.
It is calling for a revolution, and the lyrics talk about how the current system is corrupt and needs to be overthrown.
Also, they mention how violence is taking over, and how this is the time for a change, not matter how.
In the last verse, the singer apologizes to someone before leaving them behind at this moment.
18. “Changes” by 2Pac
“Changes” is a song by American rapper 2Pac, released in 1998.
The song addresses the issue of racism in America and the need for social change.
“Changes” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, and is widely considered to be one of 2Pac’s best songs.
It is included in several of his greatest hits compilations, including his 1999’s Greatest Hits and many more.
19. “Waiting On The World to Change” by John Mayer
This song speaks to the frustration that many young people feel about the state of the world.
The lyrics express the hope that someday things will change for the better, and that our generation will be the one to make that happen.
Despite the challenges we face, we continue to wait and hope for a better future.
20. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
“What’s Going On” is a song by Marvin Gaye that was released in May 21, 1971.
The lyrics deal with social issues such as war, poverty, and racism, and it calls for the simple understanding of why these things happen.
Gaye has said that the song was inspired in some ways by the violence he witnessed during the 1968 Detroit riots.
The lyrics are also believed to be inspired by the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement.
Various publications, including Rolling Stone magazine, have ranked it as one of the greatest songs of all time and is considered a classic of Motown records.
21. “My Life” by Billy Joel
Billy Joel’s track “My Life” is about someone who has left their old life behind and is now living on their terms.
Its lyrics talk about how the person doesn’t need or want anyone else’s help, and how they are still the same person despite the changes in their life.
The song speaks to the idea of being true to yourself and living your life the way you want to, regardless of what others may say or think.
When everything is over, you’ll feel happier if you made these decisions early on.
22. “One” by U2
The lyrics to “One” by U2 are about the idea of coming together and being united despite our differences.
U2 explains how we all have different needs and wants, but if we can learn to love and care for each other, we can get through anything.
Even though we might hurt each other sometimes, the singer implores us to keep trying and to remember that we’re all in this together.
23. “One Love” by Bob Marley
“One Love” by Bob Marley is a song about coming together and unity, essentially reflecting on the idea that there’s one love, the universal love.
The lyrics talk about how we all have one love and one heart, and how we should come together and feel alright.
The lyrics also talk about how there is no hiding place from the Father of Creation, and how we should all give thanks and praise to the Lord.
These words are powerful, and in my opinion, inspire people to come together and be united.
24. “If You’re Out There” by John Legend
This song is about hope, believing in yourself and in the potential of the world, and is about coming together to make change happen.
Its lyrics encourage people to stand up and be counted, to use their voices to make a difference.
The song is also about being the change you want to see in the world.
You don’t have to wait for someone else to lead the way, you can be the hero you’re looking for.
If we all work together, we can make anything happen!
25. “I Want to Break Free” by Queen
“I Want to Break Free” is a song by Queen released in 1984.
The lyrics are about a person who wants to break free from the lies and restrictions of their life.
The song speaks to the desire for freedom and independence and the feeling of being trapped in a situation that isn’t fulfilling.
It could also be interpreted as being about a relationship, or about society in general.
In either case, the message is that it’s possible to break free from whatever is holding you back and that it’s worth fighting for your freedom.
26. “Change” by Blind Melon
“Change” as its name gives away is about change, in the world, within ourselves, or anything that allows us to be better tommorrow.
The lyrics talk about how when things are tough, you have to change and become a better person.
They also talk about how some people are afraid of change because they fear the outcome, and whether it’ll be what they want or not.
But the singer says that’s okay because change is inevitable and it’ll happen, whether or not we want it.
27. “Change” by Taylor Swift
This song is about continuing to fight even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Its lyrics talk about how things will change and how we need to be ready for the revolution.
It’s a call to arms for anyone who has ever felt outnumbered or like they were fighting a losing battle.
Even with all of the difficulties, the song proclaims that we will come out victorious in the end; singing hallelujah is a way of celebrating this victory.
28. “We Never Change” by Coldplay
These lyrics have a different perspective from the other songs, since they are about how someone wants to live their lives and never change.
They want to be good to other people and have friends around them, but even though they sin every day, they still want to be a decent person.
These lyrics also mention how the person wants to live in a wooden house, which could symbolize how they want a simple life.
Making more friends would be easy for them in this scenario, as they would be surrounded by good people.
Ultimately, this song is about how someone wants to lead a good life and be happy.
29. “Change” by Christina Aguilera
“Change” by Christina Aguilera is also about the hope for change in the world.
The lyrics talk about how people are waiting for a day when they can be themselves and be treated equally, regardless of who they love or where they come from.
The chorus encourages people to be brave and stand up for what they believe in because one-day things will be different.
Its lyrics are powerful and inspiring and remind us that we should never give up hope for a better future.
30. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
According to the songwriter, these lyrics are about “a relationship that starts great and then suddenly things change.”
The words reflect how everything in the relationship is different, from the way they interact with each other to the way they view each other.
Even though everything has changed, the songwriter still wants to know the person better.
These lines could also be interpreted more broadly to refer to any major life changes that happen suddenly and unexpectedly.
31. “I Can” by Nas
This song is about following your dreams and working hard to achieve them no matter what.
Its lyrics encourage listeners to stay focused and not give up, even when things are tough.
They also emphasize the importance of having a good support system and staying positive throughout the journey.
Ultimately, the goal is to be happy and proud of what you’ve accomplished.
In love with guitars, and gear; expert in all things music! Been writing about guitars for about 5 years and counting. Born in the ’90s. Alma Mater: University of Havana. Always curious, trying to understand the world. #TeamFender