8 Songs That Will Energize and Inspire You

Photo by Gary Simmons

Today is party day on planet earth.

On New Year's Eve we say goodbye to 2010 and celebrate the arrival of hope, opportunity and a brand new year. And central to this global celebration is... music!

But I'm not thinking about the kind of music that's "got a good beat that you can dance to." I'm thinking more about popular songs that have something profound to say in addition to a great beat.

I'm thinking of music that can form the soundtrack of your life in 2011 as you seek to be happy, healthy and prosperous.

Here are 8 of my favorite popular songs that will energize and inspire
you.

(1) You Gotta Be - Des'ree
In this smooth and soulful tune, Des'ree implores you to push yourself and avoid complacency. "Challenge what the future holds" and "stand up and be counted". Do you need to step up your game in 2011? This song will inspire you.

(2) Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield
I love this song, not only because of it's clever, hip-hoppity beat, and shiny acoustic guitar (not to mention the rousing chorus near the end) but because of it's moving message about enjoying the present as you work to create the future of your dreams. "Today is where your book begins, the rest is still unwritten." "Unwritten" reminds us that your future is yours to write if you'll only release your inhibitions. Brilliant song, and you can cut a rug to it too!

(3) Make it Happen - Mariah Carey
Although this song is a bit melodramatic, I still love it for it's message of faith - faith in yourself and a higher power. It's like a groovy, danceable version of Amazing Grace which reminds us that we will, at times, be severely tested. But..."If you believe in yourself and know what you really want you're going to make it happen." Prayer. Faith. What else is there to say?

(4) Vogue - Madonna
This song seems like just a fun, danceable track and nothing more. But listen carefully and you'll hear an empowering message about pushing boundaries, having fun, and doing it with style. Like Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire, don't forget to imbue everything you do in 2011 with grace and style.

(5) I Hope You Dance - Lee Ann Womack
I adore this song. The lyrics are so beautifully poetic and poignant that I get goose-bumps each and every time I listen to it. I love the message, Lee Ann's loving rendition, the soft, country-music arrangement... everything. This is the theme song for LIFE, yours and mine. But will we always remember to dance?

(6) Man in the Mirror - Michael Jackson
Leo Tolstoy, Gandhi and Michael Jackson agree. Everyone's out to change the world, but few ever think of changing themselves. If you want to make the world a better place, start with the man or woman you see in the mirror. Be the change you seek to see.

(7) Shining Star - Earth, Wind and Fire
There's more to this rock and funk classic than some wickedly funky bass lines and electric guitar. The song reminds us of what Carl Sagan was fond of saying: "You're made of star stuff!" Indeed, every atom in your body was created in the furnace deep inside of a star. Amazing. Call it a miracle or call it an act of God, but you're a star, metaphorically and literally speaking. Although you may sometimes forget, you're always capable of shining very bright.

(8) A Whole New World - Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle
This gorgeously arranged and performed tune reminds us of the importance of love and how love can open your eyes to a whole new world of possibilities, if you let it. And it doesn't have to be romantic love. It can be love of self or of your fellow man. Or love of your craft. Let love open your eyes wide so you can get a better look at this wondrous world we live in.

So there you have my 8 songs, but I'm looking for more. Do you have suggestions?

Have wonderful and blessed New Year!