International Women’s Day celebrates the incredible achievements, strength, and resilience of women around the world, and what better way to honor this special occasion than through powerful music that uplifts and inspires? From timeless anthems to contemporary hits, the right songs can capture the spirit of empowerment, equality, and solidarity that defines this global movement. Whether you’re organizing an event, creating a playlist, or simply looking for music that celebrates womanhood, these tracks offer the perfect soundtrack to commemorate the day and every day dedicated to women’s rights and achievements.
The songs featured in this collection span decades and genres, showcasing the diverse voices and perspectives of female artists and allies who have used their platforms to champion women’s causes. Each track carries its own message of strength, independence, and celebration, resonating with listeners who believe in gender equality and social justice. From pop and R&B to rock and hip-hop, these musical selections reflect the multifaceted nature of women’s experiences and the ongoing fight for recognition and respect in all areas of life.
Respect by Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” stands as one of the most iconic anthems of empowerment in music history, demanding recognition and dignity with every powerful note the Queen of Soul delivers. Released in 1967, this Otis Redding cover transformed into something uniquely feminist under Franklin’s interpretation, becoming a rallying cry for both the civil rights and women’s movements. The song’s direct message about demanding respect in relationships resonated far beyond romantic contexts, speaking to broader societal expectations and the need for women to assert their worth and value in every aspect of life.
Run the World (Girls) by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s explosive “Run the World (Girls)” serves as a modern celebration of female power and achievement, backed by aggressive production and confident lyrics that leave no doubt about women’s capabilities. The 2011 track samples Major Lazer’s “Gest a Load” and incorporates bold declarations about women’s strength in business, politics, and society at large. This high-energy anthem has become a staple at women’s empowerment events worldwide, with its infectious beat and unapologetic message making it impossible not to feel inspired and ready to take on any challenge.
I’m Every Woman by Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan’s disco-funk classic “I’m Every Woman” celebrates the multifaceted nature of womanhood with joyful exuberance and infectious energy that has kept audiences dancing since 1978. Written by Ashford & Simpson specifically for Khan, the song embraces all aspects of femininity and female experience, from strength to vulnerability, creating a universal anthem of self-acceptance. The track’s enduring popularity led to Whitney Houston’s successful 1992 cover, proving that its message of celebrating women in all their complexity remains timeless and relevant across generations.
Fighter by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter” transforms personal pain into a powerful declaration of resilience, thanking adversity for making her stronger rather than breaking her spirit. Released in 2003 from her “Stripped” album, this rock-influenced pop track resonated with anyone who has faced challenges and emerged more determined than before. The song’s message about using negative experiences as fuel for growth and self-improvement makes it particularly relevant for International Women’s Day, reminding listeners that obstacles can become stepping stones to empowerment.
Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” paints a vivid portrait of a woman coming into her own power, walking through the world with confidence and purpose that cannot be dimmed. The 2012 single combines Keys’ soulful vocals with lyrics that celebrate women who pursue their dreams despite obstacles and doubters. This inspirational anthem has been embraced by women worldwide as a personal theme song, encouraging listeners to recognize their own inner fire and let it shine brightly in everything they do.
Independent Women Part I by Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child delivered a defining anthem of financial and emotional independence with “Independent Women Part I,” celebrating women who can provide for themselves and make their own choices. Released in 2000 as part of the “Charlie’s Angels” soundtrack, the song topped charts globally while promoting self-sufficiency and personal empowerment. The track’s catchy hook and confident lyrics about buying your own things and calling your own shots resonated deeply with a generation of women asserting their autonomy in relationships and life.
Roar by Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s “Roar” emerged as a massive empowerment anthem in 2013, encouraging listeners to find their voice and stand up for themselves after periods of silence or suppression. The song’s journey from being quiet and compliant to loud and confident mirrors many women’s experiences of discovering their own strength and refusing to be diminished. With its stadium-ready chorus and metaphor of having the “eye of the tiger,” this pop powerhouse has become a go-to track for anyone needing a boost of courage and self-assertion.
Survivor by Destiny’s Child
“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child stands as one of the group’s most enduring tracks, turning personal setbacks into declarations of resilience and continued success despite attempts to bring them down. Released in 2001, the song addressed both personal and professional challenges while maintaining an upbeat, defiant tone that inspired millions of listeners. The track’s message about not only surviving difficult situations but thriving afterward makes it perfect for celebrating the strength women demonstrate in overcoming obstacles throughout their lives.
Just a Girl by No Doubt
No Doubt’s “Just a Girl” uses irony and punk-influenced energy to critique the limitations and assumptions placed on women simply because of their gender. Gwen Stefani’s 1995 breakout hit expresses frustration with being underestimated and restricted while maintaining a catchy, singable quality that made the message accessible to mainstream audiences. The song’s sarcastic take on gendered expectations and its raw energy helped define ’90s feminism in popular music, remaining relevant today as women continue fighting against stereotypes and double standards.
Woman by Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s “Woman” from her 2021 album “Planet Her” celebrates femininity with disco-funk vibes and confident assertions about the power and appeal of women. The track embraces sensuality and self-assurance while paying homage to classic female empowerment anthems of previous decades through its retro-inspired production. This contemporary addition to women’s empowerment music shows how new generations of artists continue finding fresh ways to express pride in womanhood while acknowledging the artists who paved the way before them.
The Man by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “The Man” directly addresses gender double standards in the music industry and society, questioning how differently she would be treated if she were male. Released in 2019 from her “Lover” album, the song articulates frustrations many women feel about having to work twice as hard for half the recognition their male counterparts receive. Swift’s pointed lyrics about professional expectations and personal life judgments sparked widespread conversation about systemic sexism and the different rules applied to men and women in the same fields.
Scars to Your Beautiful by Alessia Cara
Alessia Cara’s “Scars to Your Beautiful” tackles beauty standards and body image issues with compassion and directness, reminding listeners that they don’t need to change to be worthy of love and acceptance. The 2015 track became an anthem for self-acceptance, particularly resonating with young women bombarded by unrealistic images in media and advertising. By celebrating natural beauty and rejecting the pressure to conform to narrow ideals, this song provides an important message about self-worth that extends beyond physical appearance to embrace the whole person.
Born This Way by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” celebrates all forms of identity and existence, encouraging self-love and acceptance regardless of gender, sexuality, race, or any other characteristic. Released in 2011, this dance-pop anthem became a cultural phenomenon and a rallying cry for marginalized communities worldwide, including women fighting for equality. The song’s message that you’re perfect exactly as you are challenges societal pressure to change or hide aspects of yourself, making it a powerful addition to any International Women’s Day celebration.
Try by P!nk
P!nk’s “Try” confronts perfectionism and the fear of failure with raw honesty, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and keep attempting difficult things despite potential setbacks. The 2012 track acknowledges that life gets messy and sometimes you’ll fall short of your goals, but that’s no reason to stop trying or to beat yourself up. This message of persistence through imperfection resonates particularly well with women who often face unrealistic expectations to balance multiple roles flawlessly while making it all look effortless.
Confident by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato’s “Confident” explodes with self-assurance and swagger, declaring ownership of personal power and refusing to apologize for taking up space. Released in 2015, the song marked a shift in Lovato’s public persona toward embracing strength and confidence after years of personal struggles. The track’s bold production and unapologetic lyrics about being “confident” and owning who you are make it perfect for empowerment playlists, especially for those moments when you need to channel your inner strength and step into challenging situations.
Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” transforms a Nietzsche quote into an uptempo pop-rock anthem about emerging from hardship more capable than before. The 2011 hit became one of Clarkson’s signature songs, with its message about resilience and growth through difficulty resonating across demographics and situations. The song works particularly well for International Women’s Day because it acknowledges that challenges exist while focusing on the strength gained through overcoming them rather than dwelling on victimhood.
Superwoman by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys’ “Superwoman” pays tribute to the strength of everyday women who handle multiple responsibilities while maintaining grace and determination. Released in 2008, the song acknowledges the pressure many women feel to be everything to everyone while celebrating their ability to rise to these challenges. Keys’ powerful vocals and the song’s gospel-influenced production create an emotional tribute that honors the resilience of women who might not see themselves as extraordinary but accomplish remarkable things daily.
No Scrubs by TLC
TLC’s “No Scrubs” set standards for what women should expect from relationships, refusing to settle for partners who don’t bring equal effort and respect to the table. The 1999 hit defined a generation’s approach to dating by clearly stating that women deserve partners who have ambition, transportation, and genuine interest rather than just opportunistic behavior. This song’s message about knowing your worth and not accepting less than you deserve extends beyond romantic relationships to all areas where women might be expected to settle or compromise their standards.
Break My Soul by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul” from her 2022 album “Renaissance” became an anthem for workplace liberation and personal freedom, encouraging listeners to quit soul-crushing situations and prioritize their wellbeing. The house-music influenced track samples Big Freedia and Robin S.’s “Show Me Love” while delivering a message about taking control of your life and refusing to let others diminish your spirit. As one of the newer releases on this list, it demonstrates how contemporary artists continue creating music that speaks to women’s evolving experiences and challenges in modern society.
Good as Hell by Lizzo
Lizzo’s “Good as Hell” serves up pure self-care encouragement with infectious positivity, reminding listeners to prioritize their own happiness and wellbeing above all else. Originally released in 2016 but gaining massive popularity in 2019, the song became a self-love anthem with its advice to do your hair, check your nails, and remember that you’re already “good as hell.” The track’s uplifting message and Lizzo’s charismatic delivery make it perfect for boosting confidence and celebrating the importance of self-appreciation, which remains essential for women navigating a world that often asks them to shrink themselves.
These twenty tracks represent just a fraction of the incredible music celebrating women’s strength, resilience, and achievements throughout history. Whether you’re looking to explore more empowering songs or want to enhance your listening experience with quality earbuds, the right soundtrack can transform International Women’s Day into a powerful celebration. For those seeking the best audio equipment to fully appreciate these anthems, checking out headphones can ensure you experience every note and lyric with crystal clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a song appropriate for International Women’s Day?
Songs appropriate for International Women’s Day typically contain themes of empowerment, equality, resilience, or celebration of women’s achievements and experiences. These tracks often feature lyrics that challenge gender stereotypes, promote self-confidence, or acknowledge the struggles and triumphs unique to women’s lives. The best selections for this occasion resonate emotionally while inspiring listeners to recognize their own worth and the contributions women make to society at large.
Should International Women’s Day playlists only include female artists?
While International Women’s Day playlists often focus on female artists to amplify women’s voices, they can also include male artists who support women’s rights and equality through their music. The most important factor is the message and theme of the song rather than strictly the gender of the performer. However, given the purpose of the day is to celebrate women’s achievements, prioritizing female artists ensures their work receives the recognition and platform they deserve while honoring their contributions to music and culture.
How do I choose between classic and contemporary songs for an International Women’s Day event?
The ideal approach combines both classic empowerment anthems and contemporary releases to appeal to diverse age groups and musical preferences while showing the evolution of feminist themes in music. Classic songs like “Respect” provide historical context and familiarity that can unite audiences, while newer tracks demonstrate that the conversation about women’s rights continues evolving with each generation. Balancing timeless anthems with current releases creates a playlist that honors the past while acknowledging ongoing struggles and celebrating modern achievements.
Can these songs be used for commercial International Women’s Day events?
Using these songs for commercial events requires proper licensing through performing rights organizations like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC, as copyright law protects musical compositions and recordings. Public performances, whether at corporate events, retail spaces, or fundraisers, typically need appropriate licenses even when celebrating occasions like International Women’s Day. Organizations should consult with music licensing professionals or the relevant performing rights societies to ensure compliance while creating meaningful celebrations that respect both the artists’ rights and the day’s significance.
Are there International Women’s Day songs in languages other than English?
Numerous powerful women’s empowerment songs exist in languages worldwide, reflecting the global nature of the women’s rights movement and diverse cultural perspectives on gender equality. Artists from Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond have created anthems addressing women’s issues in their native languages, often incorporating cultural-specific experiences and challenges. Exploring international music for International Women’s Day celebrations can broaden understanding of how women’s experiences differ across cultures while highlighting the universal themes of equality, respect, and empowerment that transcend language barriers.