Living as a woman in today’s society has become a trying task, one millions of women struggle with every day as they battle entrenched misogynistic standards often disguised as concern or tradition. Many of these are rooted in the idea of females being the ‘weaker vessels’ or inferior to their male counterparts.
As a result of these daily stereotypes, many women live through the day with bowed heads, dropping chins and diminished self-worth, forgetting the immense power they hold and letting the voice of the crowd control their narratives.
For every woman who has ever doubted her strength, beauty, or value, we’ve curated a playlist of 15 evocative songs. These tracks serve as affirmations of your power, resilience, and inherent worth. Let this playlist be a love letter to your journey, reminding you that you are more than enough.
We hope listening to these songs will make you smile, lift your chin a little higher, and remind you always that ‘You are more than enough.’
1. GOOD AS HELL by LIZZO ft. ARIANA GRANDE
This track promotes self-love, confidence and independence. It emphasises that you don’t need any male validation or approval and any man that doesn’t see your worth does not deserve you and should be tossed aside. As Lizzo says, ‘You know you a star, you can touch the sky.’ And sure, you can.
2. FLAWLESS by BEYONCÉ ft. CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE
Beyoncé is definitely that one artist who would always hype women up in her songs and make you feel so good about yourself. This song is no exception as it expressly celebrates female empowerment, glorifying the beauty of women by emphasising that you are ‘flawless’.
We can’t overlook the wonderful narration by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s compelling speech on feminism and the equality of the sexes. This speech coupled with the song verses reinforces the message that a woman does not need to be boxed by any societal expectations making this song a masterpiece to vibe to whenever any form of doubt creeps into your minds.
3. WOMAN COMMANDO by AYRA STARR, ANITTA ft. COCO JONES
Afrobeats, but make it feminine power. This song is that lit, high-energy anthem that just makes you want to fling your hair, move your hips and feel like the boss that you are!
This anthem is not just all vibes but one that also celebrates the unity in the diversity of women. Away from the zodiac differences and individual peculiarities, this trio emphasised the beauty in all women and encouraged moving together as one.
Most importantly, the song affirmed women can be leaders and have their own clan. It emphasizes that women can lead, command, and uplift each other, breaking barriers together.
4. INDEPENDENT WOMEN, PT. 1 by DESTINY’S CHILD
This song is screaming Confidence!!!
From the first verse, we are introduced into the world of this woman who caters to all her needs. She pays her bills by herself and doesn’t wait for anyone to get her what she wants. This song emphasises the importance of women being financially and emotionally independent, and asserting control over their lives. When you are able to cater to yourself, then you are self-sufficient and no longer have to live at the mercy of any man.
5. WOMAN by DOJA CAT
This, right here, is that sweet, sensual song that makes you feel so feminine. Picture a woman in all her beauty and glory moving to the rhythm and beats of this track while sipping on expensive wine on a yacht or in her penthouse apartment with floor to ceiling glass windows.
Doja Cat celebrates femininity, resourcefulness and the multifaceted nature of womanhood, highlighting strength, sensuality, and resilience.
6. I’M EVERY WOMAN by CHAKA KHAN
An evergreen classic, this song is a powerful declaration of the capabilities and strengths inherent in every woman. It is a tribute to the multidimensional nature of women.
7. RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS) by BEYONCÉ
What is a female appreciation playlist without this good ol’ anthem?
Beyoncé emphasised the diverse roles women juggle and the pivotal role they play in shaping the world. This is your pump up track before taking on the world.
8. I AM WOMAN by EMMY MELL
This is self-affirmation therapy. Again, Emmy reminds everyone that a woman is the whole package. She is anything and everything she wants. Her track reminds us of the limitless potential and strength within every woman.
9. ALIEN SUPERSTAR by BEYONCÉ
Alien superstar is a vibe for the girls who know they’re not like the rest of the bunch. It’s a celebration of the uniqueness of women in the special way we walk, talk and do everything, emphasizing that being distinct is a superpower.
10. SUPERWOMAN by ALICIA KEYS
This song honors the everyday strength of women, acknowledging their silent battles and unwavering resilience. It captures the everyday woman with different financial realities from all parts of the world honoring the emotional labor, quiet resilience, and tears they wipe when exhausted and still keep going.
11. WOMAN by SIMI
With a tune akin to that of the Afrobeats Master, Fela, this is another classic evergreen. Simi, in a raw, honest and beautiful way, addresses societal pressures and double standards faced by women, advocating for recognition and equality.
She talks about the ridiculous standards we are held by, how we are always expected to do things that should be validated by men. The line ‘no be like water, e no get enemy.’, a play on the saying ‘water has no enemy’ reflects how women aren’t universally accepted or untouched by criticism like water supposedly is. Yet, despite all this, we are still very strong, resilient and shining.
12. SCARS TO YOUR BEAUTIFUL by ALESSIA CARA
This classic is for every woman who has ever looked into the mirror and thought ‘I am ugly.’ This is for every girl that looks at her scars and hates herself for them. With this piece, Alessia gives a heartfelt reminder that beauty isn’t skin deep, encouraging women to embrace their imperfections and love themselves wholly.
Those scars mark your beautiful journey and it does not in any way diminish your shine. You are still a star, beautiful, perfect and you are worth every good thing. Whenever you’re doubting and self -sabotaging, let these words comfort you. That there is no better you than the you that you are!
13. GIRL ON FIRE by ALICIA KEYS
Low self esteem? What’s that? You’re on fire, girl! This is an empowering track that celebrates inner strength, urging women to recognize and embrace their fiery spirit. It is that song that prepares you for a day in the world of people that try to dim your light. It is the perfect morning energy booster. Girl, you’re a flame. Go out there and burn brightly!
14. BO$$ by FIFTH HARMONY
This song is the perfect confidence booster, encouraging young girls to be ambitious, independent and successful. It highlights influential women such as Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama, encouraging listeners to own their power.
15. PRETTY GIRL ROCK by KERI HILSON
Rounding out the playlist is this awesome rendition by Keri Hilson unashamedly proclaiming her beauty and elegance. She encourages all women to embrace their beauty and walk with pride.
As you navigate your day-to-day life, let this playlist remind you of your strength, depth, beauty, and worth. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply need a boost, press play, dance those anxieties away and let these songs uplift and empower you. Remember, you are powerful, beautiful, more than enough. And you deserve to feel like it every single day.
