Contents
- 1. Be Kind To Yourself – Andrew Peterson
- 2. Kind and Generous – Natalie Merchant
- 3. You Showed Me Kindness – Bob Nordquist
- 4. Lean on Me – Bill Withers
- 5. A Random Act of Senseless Kindness – South 65
- 6. At Your Side – The Corrs
- 7. Humble and Kind – Tim McGraw
- 8. Somebody’s Daughter – Tenille Townes
- 9. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
- 10. Compassion (Change the World) – Andrew Witt
- 11. Loving Kindness – Ashana
- 12. Try a Little Kindness – Glen Campbell
- 13. Hey Brother – Avicii
- 14. Carry You – Union J
- 15. Count on Me – Bruno Mars
- 16. Be Kind – Marshmello & Halsey
- 17. You’ve Got a Friend – Carole King
- 18. I Know It’s Over – The Smiths
- 19. Anytime You Need a Friend – Mariah Carey
- 20. Treat People with Kindness – Harry Styles
In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, music has the ability to soothe our souls and provide a sense of hope and positivity. Songs about kindness and empathy, in particular, can inspire us to be better people and remind us of the importance of treating others with compassion and understanding.
From classic ballads to modern pop hits, the message of kindness and empathy has been a popular theme in music throughout the years. The top 20 best songs about kindness and empathy showcase a diverse range of styles and genres, but all share a common message: the power of kindness to make the world a better place. These songs not only uplift our spirits but also serve as a reminder of the impact we can have on others when we choose to lead with love and empathy. So whether you need a pick-me-up on a bad day or simply want to bask in the beauty of human kindness, these songs are sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
1. Be Kind To Yourself – Andrew Peterson
“Be Kind To Yourself” is a beautiful and uplifting song by Christian singer-songwriter Andrew Peterson. The song’s message is one of self-compassion, encouraging listeners to be gentle and forgiving towards themselves, even when they feel they don’t measure up to their own or others’ expectations. The lyrics are filled with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the struggles and pains of life while offering hope and comfort. The gentle acoustic guitar and soft percussion provide a calming and reassuring musical backdrop for the song’s message of self-care. With its comforting words and soothing melody, “Be Kind To Yourself” is a reminder to take a break from self-criticism and show oneself the same kindness and love that we would show to others.
2. Kind and Generous – Natalie Merchant
“Kind and Generous” by Natalie Merchant is a joyful and upbeat song about the power of kindness and gratitude. The lyrics express appreciation for the small acts of kindness that make life worth living, and encourage listeners to pay that kindness forward to others. Merchant’s distinctive voice, backed by a cheerful melody and lively percussion, creates a mood of celebration and optimism. With its catchy chorus and positive message, “Kind and Generous” is a reminder of the power of kindness to brighten even the darkest of days.
3. You Showed Me Kindness – Bob Nordquist
“You Showed Me Kindness” is a heartfelt song by singer-songwriter Bob Nordquist, dedicated to a friend who showed him kindness during a difficult time in his life. The gentle guitar and Nordquist’s tender vocals create an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere, as he sings of his gratitude and the impact that one person’s kindness can have. The lyrics are simple but powerful, expressing the sense of connection and support that comes from being shown kindness. “You Showed Me Kindness” is a poignant reminder of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have on the lives of those around us.
4. Lean on Me – Bill Withers
“Lean on Me” is a timeless classic by the late American singer-songwriter Bill Withers. Released in 1972, the song has become an anthem of friendship, community, and mutual support. The song’s simple and memorable melody, driven by a catchy piano riff and soulful vocals, has made it an enduring favorite for generations. The lyrics are a call to solidarity, encouraging listeners to turn to each other in times of need, and to offer their own support to those who are struggling. With its message of kindness and unity, “Lean on Me” remains a beloved and inspiring song, reminding us of the importance of human connection and the power of compassion.
5. A Random Act of Senseless Kindness – South 65
“A Random Act of Senseless Kindness” is a poignant song by country group South 65. The lyrics tell the story of a small act of kindness that has a profound impact on the recipient and the wider community. The song’s slow and mournful melody, driven by acoustic guitar and soft percussion, creates a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lyrics speak to the power of empathy and compassion, urging listeners to look beyond their own concerns and reach out to others in need. With its bittersweet tone and heartfelt message, “A Random Act of Senseless Kindness” is a reminder of the simple ways that we can make a positive difference in the world. The song encourages us to take a moment to notice the people around us, and to offer a small gesture of kindness that can brighten someone’s day and spread positivity.
6. At Your Side – The Corrs
“At Your Side” is a beautiful song by Irish band The Corrs, known for their unique blend of pop, rock, and traditional Celtic music. Released in 2000, the song is a heartfelt ballad with a soaring chorus and intricate instrumental arrangements. The lyrics speak to the power of friendship and the comfort that comes from knowing that someone is always there for you. The song’s melancholic tone and poignant melody create a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. “At Your Side” is a moving tribute to the importance of human connection, and a reminder of the strength that we can draw from the people we love. The Corrs’ lush harmonies and intricate instrumentation create a beautiful and uplifting musical landscape that perfectly captures the song’s message of support and solidarity.
7. Humble and Kind – Tim McGraw
“Humble and Kind” is a touching country ballad by Tim McGraw, released in 2015. The song’s lyrics offer a simple but powerful message about the importance of living with humility and treating others with kindness and respect. The melody is gentle and slow, with delicate acoustic instrumentation and a soaring chorus that emphasizes the song’s message of compassion and empathy. McGraw’s vocals are sincere and heartfelt, conveying a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth that makes the song resonate with listeners. “Humble and Kind” is a reminder that even in a world that can often seem harsh and unforgiving, we can all make a difference by treating others with compassion and generosity. The song’s simple but profound message is a source of inspiration for people of all ages and backgrounds, and has become a modern classic in the country music genre.
8. Somebody’s Daughter – Tenille Townes
“Somebody’s Daughter” is a poignant country song by Tenille Townes, released in 2018. The song tells the story of a homeless woman on the street, reminding listeners that behind every person we encounter, there is a unique and complex life story. The lyrics are powerful and emotional, capturing the woman’s experience with empathy and understanding. Townes’ vocals are tender and expressive, conveying the song’s message of compassion and human connection. The instrumentation is understated, with acoustic guitar and piano creating a gentle and reflective atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s message. “Somebody’s Daughter” is a reminder that we are all connected, and that we all have the power to make a difference in the lives of others. The song has been widely praised for its honesty and empathy, and has become a favorite among country music fans and critics alike.
9. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a classic ballad by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1970. The song features beautiful harmonies and a sweeping orchestral arrangement, creating a powerful and emotional atmosphere. The lyrics are uplifting and inspirational, with a message of support and comfort for those in need. The imagery of a bridge spanning troubled waters is both poetic and symbolic, representing the idea that we can all help each other in times of difficulty. The song has become an enduring classic and has been covered by many artists, cementing its place as one of the most beloved songs in the folk-pop genre.
10. Compassion (Change the World) – Andrew Witt
“Compassion (Change the World)” is a contemporary Christian song by Andrew Witt, released in 2020. The song has a modern pop-rock sound, with driving rhythms and powerful vocals that convey a sense of urgency and passion. The lyrics encourage listeners to show compassion and love to others, with the belief that this can change the world for the better. The song’s message is both personal and universal, reminding us that every individual has the power to make a positive impact in the world. The production is polished and professional, with layered harmonies and dynamic instrumentation that create a high-energy and uplifting atmosphere. “Compassion (Change the World)” is a powerful anthem that reminds us of the importance of love, empathy, and connection in a world that often feels divided and isolated.
11. Loving Kindness – Ashana
“Loving Kindness” is a beautifully calming and meditative song performed by Ashana, an American singer-songwriter who specializes in New Age music. The track is an ethereal blend of ambient soundscapes and Ashana’s hauntingly angelic voice. The song’s soothing melody and peaceful lyrics are designed to help the listener relax and focus on the present moment. The lyrics of “Loving Kindness” are inspired by the Buddhist concept of metta, which means loving-kindness or benevolence. The song encourages the listener to cultivate a sense of loving-kindness towards themselves and others, promoting peace and harmony in the world. The lyrics are in Sanskrit and English, adding to the meditative and spiritual feel of the song.
12. Try a Little Kindness – Glen Campbell
Try a Little Kindness” is a classic country song written by Bobby Austin and Curt Sapaugh and made popular by the legendary Glen Campbell. The song delivers a simple but powerful message: even a small act of kindness can go a long way in making someone’s day brighter. Campbell’s warm and inviting voice is the perfect fit for the song’s uplifting melody and hopeful lyrics. The song’s gentle instrumentation, with acoustic guitar, harmonica, and a subtle string section, perfectly captures the song’s message of kindness and compassion. “Try a Little Kindness” is a timeless song that reminds us all of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Its message is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released over 50 years ago, and it continues to inspire people around the world to spread a little kindness in their daily lives.
13. Hey Brother – Avicii
“Hey Brother” is an uplifting and powerful song by Swedish musician Avicii, released in 2013. The song features a unique blend of electronic dance music and country music, creating an infectious and energizing sound that has made it a fan favorite. The lyrics of “Hey Brother” revolve around themes of love, support, and the importance of looking out for one another, even when times get tough. The song’s chorus urges listeners to “Hey brother, there’s an endless road to rediscover,” emphasizing the importance of staying connected with others and never giving up hope.
Avicii’s “Hey Brother” has become an anthem of sorts for its powerful message of kindness, brotherhood, and unity. The song’s music video, which features two young brothers growing up and learning to look out for each other, further underscores the importance of empathy and support in our daily lives. With its catchy beat and inspiring lyrics, “Hey Brother” is a reminder to all of us to be there for each other and to never give up hope, no matter how tough things may get.
14. Carry You – Union J
“Carry You” by Union J is a touching ballad that emphasizes the importance of being there for others in their time of need. The lyrics highlight the struggles that people may face in life, and the need for someone to lean on and offer support. The song has a powerful and emotional melody, making it a popular choice for weddings, graduations, and other important occasions. The message of the song is one of hope and comfort, reminding listeners that they are never alone and that someone will always be there to carry them through difficult times.
15. Count on Me – Bruno Mars
“Count on Me” is a song by American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars from his debut studio album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” released in 2010. The song is an upbeat and cheerful tune about the importance of being there for one another through thick and thin. It features an acoustic guitar riff with a catchy melody that’s easy to sing along to. Mars’ voice shines on the track as he delivers a heartfelt message of support to a friend in need, promising to always be there no matter what. The lyrics encourage listeners to be reliable and to offer a helping hand to those in need. The song has been praised for its uplifting and positive message, and it has become a popular choice for graduations, weddings, and other celebratory occasions.
16. Be Kind – Marshmello & Halsey
“Be Kind” is a collaborative song by Marshmello and Halsey that was released in 2020. The song encourages people to be kind to one another, especially during difficult times. The lyrics emphasize the importance of compassion, empathy, and understanding, and suggest that we can all make a difference in someone’s life by showing kindness. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat tempo, with electronic and pop influences. Halsey’s powerful vocals complement Marshmello’s signature sound, creating a memorable and uplifting track. Overall, “Be Kind” is a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world, and that we should all strive to treat each other with kindness and respect.
17. You’ve Got a Friend – Carole King
“You’ve Got a Friend” is a classic song written by Carole King in 1971, and popularized by James Taylor in the same year. The song has since become a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists and used in films and television shows. The song speaks about the importance of friendship, and the lyrics assure the listener that they are never alone. The message of the song is about supporting and helping each other through tough times, and how a good friend is always there to lean on. The simple, yet memorable melody of the song, combined with its heartfelt lyrics, make it an enduring anthem of friendship and companionship. “You’ve Got a Friend” has become a universal message of comfort and care, reminding us all that we can count on our friends to be there for us through thick and thin.
18. I Know It’s Over – The Smiths
“I Know It’s Over” is a hauntingly beautiful song by The Smiths, written by Morrissey and Johnny Marr. The song is featured on their 1986 album “The Queen Is Dead” and is known for its emotional and melancholic tone. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of loneliness and heartbreak, with Morrissey’s vocals conveying the pain and sadness of lost love. The simple yet powerful instrumentation supports the emotional depth of the song, with the guitar melody and drum beats emphasizing the song’s somber mood. Despite the song’s heavy subject matter, it has become a beloved classic among The Smiths’ fans and is often cited as one of the band’s greatest songs. Its universal theme of heartbreak and despair has resonated with many listeners over the years, making it a timeless piece of music.
19. Anytime You Need a Friend – Mariah Carey
“Anytime You Need a Friend” is a song by American singer Mariah Carey, released as the fourth single from her third studio album, “Music Box” in 1994. The song was written by Carey and Walter Afanasieff, who also produced the track. It is a gospel-infused pop ballad that talks about being there for someone when they are going through a difficult time. The song features Carey’s signature soaring vocals, backed by a choir and gospel choir. The music video features Carey in a church, wearing a black dress, singing to the audience. It also features shots of people of all ages and backgrounds coming together, hugging and supporting each other, reinforcing the message of the song. The song received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The song’s uplifting message of friendship and support has made it a popular choice for graduations, weddings, and other celebratory events.
20. Treat People with Kindness – Harry Styles
“Treat People with Kindness” is a song by British singer and actor Harry Styles. The song was released in 2019 as part of his second studio album “Fine Line”. The track is an upbeat and catchy pop tune that encourages listeners to be kind to others and spread positivity. The lyrics emphasize the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect, no matter their background or circumstances. The song has an energetic and celebratory vibe, featuring brass instrumentation and a lively beat. The accompanying music video also features a joyful and colorful celebration, with Styles dancing and singing alongside a group of diverse individuals. “Treat People with Kindness” serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world and that treating others with respect and empathy can create a more positive and inclusive community.