Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science requires a soundtrack that embodies empowerment, curiosity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Music has always been a powerful medium to inspire change, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate achievements in STEM fields. This carefully curated collection of songs honors the brilliant minds of women and girls who dare to dream, explore, and innovate in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The intersection of music and science creates a unique space where creativity meets logic, passion meets precision, and imagination fuels discovery. These tracks span various genres and eras, each carrying messages of strength, independence, and the courage to break barriers. From classic anthems that have stood the test of time to contemporary releases that reflect modern challenges, this playlist serves as both celebration and motivation for aspiring scientists everywhere.
Whether you’re hosting an event, creating study playlists, or simply seeking inspiration, these songs capture the spirit of scientific exploration and female empowerment. The carefully selected tracks recognize that women in science have always been pioneers, innovators, and game-changers, often working against tremendous odds to make their mark on history. Let this musical journey remind us all that science knows no gender, and every girl with a curious mind has the potential to change the world.
Respect by Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s iconic anthem “Respect” transcends its original context to become a universal demand for recognition and dignity in all professional fields, including science. The song’s powerful vocals and unflinching message resonated with the civil rights movement and feminist waves, making it equally relevant for women demanding their rightful place in laboratories and research facilities. Released in 1967, this track reminds us that female scientists deserve the same respect, opportunities, and acknowledgment as their male counterparts, and that demanding respect is not only acceptable but necessary for progress.
Run the World (Girls) by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s explosive track “Run the World (Girls)” serves as an unapologetic celebration of female power and achievement across all domains. The song’s aggressive beats and confident lyrics perfectly capture the determination required to succeed in male-dominated STEM fields where women often face systemic barriers. This 2011 release became an anthem for a generation of young women entering science, technology, and engineering programs, reminding them that their gender is not a limitation but a source of strength in their scientific pursuits.
Fight Song by Rachel Platten
Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” emerged in 2015 as a deeply personal anthem about perseverance through adversity and self-doubt. The song resonates particularly with women in science who often battle imposter syndrome, gender bias, and isolation in their fields. With its building intensity and empowering message about proving doubters wrong, this track has become a go-to motivational song for students preparing for exams, researchers facing rejection, and scientists pushing through challenging experiments that test their resolve.
Roar by Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s “Roar” delivers a powerful message about finding your voice and refusing to be silenced, a theme particularly relevant for women in scientific communities. Released in 2013, the song’s transformation narrative from quiet to confident mirrors the journey many female scientists experience as they learn to advocate for their research and ideas. The track’s infectious energy and triumphant chorus make it perfect for moments when women in STEM need to remember their inherent strength and the importance of speaking up in academic and professional settings.
Brave by Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles crafted “Brave” as an encouragement to speak honestly and authentically, a message that resonates deeply with women scientists who must present their findings and defend their research. The 2013 release addresses the fear of judgment and ridicule that often silences innovative ideas, particularly when those ideas come from women in fields where they’re underrepresented. This uplifting pop anthem has become a staple at women in STEM events, reminding participants that bravery isn’t the absence of fear but the decision to move forward despite it.
The Scientist by Coldplay
Though performed by a male-fronted band, Coldplay’s “The Scientist” captures the emotional complexity and dedication required in scientific pursuits while serving as a gender-neutral celebration of scientific curiosity. The song’s introspective lyrics about going back to the start resonate with the scientific method itself, where failures and setbacks are essential parts of discovery. Released in 2002, this track acknowledges that science is as much about passion and persistence as it is about intelligence, making it relevant for anyone dedicated to understanding the world around us.
Stronger by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” has become synonymous with resilience and overcoming obstacles, qualities essential for women navigating scientific careers. The 2011 hit’s message about emerging from challenges more capable than before perfectly mirrors the experience of failed experiments, rejected grant applications, and professional setbacks that all scientists face. For women who often encounter additional barriers based on gender discrimination and bias, this song serves as a reminder that each obstacle overcome builds the strength necessary for long-term success in demanding STEM fields.
Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” paints a vivid picture of a woman whose passion and determination are unstoppable forces of nature. Released in 2012, the song celebrates women who pursue their dreams with fierce intensity, regardless of the obstacles placed in their path. The track’s soaring vocals and triumphant instrumentation perfectly capture the feeling of breakthrough moments in scientific research, when years of dedication suddenly crystallize into discovery, making it an ideal anthem for women scientists experiencing their eureka moments.
Titanium by David Guetta featuring Sia
The collaboration between David Guetta and Sia produced “Titanium,” a powerful declaration of unbreakable resilience that resonates with women facing criticism in scientific communities. The song’s metaphor of being bulletproof and impervious to negativity speaks to the thick skin required to persist in fields where women’s contributions are often questioned or minimized. Released in 2011, this electronic anthem has become a favorite among young women in STEM programs, providing energy and confidence during late-night study sessions and challenging project deadlines.
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” offers a refreshing perspective on handling criticism and staying focused on personal goals despite detractors. The 2014 pop hit’s upbeat tempo and carefree attitude provide a necessary counterbalance to the serious pressure women in science often face. The song’s message about ignoring naysayers and staying true to yourself applies perfectly to female scientists who must navigate professional environments where their competence is unfairly questioned, reminding them to focus on their work rather than others’ misconceptions.
Try Everything by Shakira
Featured in the animated film “Zootopia,” Shakira’s “Try Everything” celebrates the experimental spirit at the heart of scientific inquiry. The 2016 song’s message about learning from failures and continuing to experiment aligns perfectly with the scientific method, where unsuccessful attempts are valuable data points rather than defeats. For women and girls in science, this track provides encouragement to take risks, explore new methodologies, and persist through the trial-and-error process that leads to innovation and discovery.
Confident by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato’s “Confident” is an assertive declaration of self-assurance that challenges women to own their abilities and accomplishments without apology. Released in 2015, the song’s bold lyrics and powerful delivery provide the perfect soundtrack for women scientists preparing to present research, defend dissertations, or negotiate for deserved recognition. The track’s unapologetic attitude addresses the cultural expectation that women should be modest about their achievements, instead encouraging them to confidently claim their expertise and contributions to their fields.
Unstoppable by Sia
Sia’s “Unstoppable” delivers a message of invincibility and determination that perfectly captures the mindset required for groundbreaking scientific work. The 2016 release features powerful vocals that build into an anthem of self-belief, making it ideal for women scientists tackling ambitious research projects or pursuing leadership positions in their fields. The song’s repetitive affirmations of being unstoppable and invincible serve as powerful mantras for overcoming the self-doubt that society often instills in women pursuing careers in male-dominated STEM disciplines.
Born This Way by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” celebrates authenticity and the inherent worth of every individual regardless of societal expectations or prejudices. Released in 2011, the song’s message of self-acceptance resonates with women in science who may feel pressure to conform to masculine workplace norms or hide aspects of their identity. The track reminds female scientists that their unique perspectives and approaches are valuable assets to scientific inquiry, and that diversity in thought and background strengthens research communities and leads to more innovative solutions.
Good as Hell by Lizzo
Lizzo’s “Good as Hell” combines self-care messaging with empowerment in a way that addresses the burnout and mental health challenges prevalent in scientific careers. The 2016 release encourages women to prioritize their well-being while pursuing ambitious goals, a balance particularly important in demanding research environments. The song’s playful energy and affirmations about personal worth provide a necessary reminder that scientists are more than their publications and discoveries, and that maintaining joy and self-love is essential for sustainable success in challenging fields.
Scars to Your Beautiful by Alessia Cara
Alessia Cara’s “Scars to Your Beautiful” addresses the unrealistic standards and expectations that society places on women, including those in professional scientific settings. Released in 2015, the song’s message about inherent beauty and worth beyond appearance challenges the notion that female scientists must navigate comments about their looks in addition to demonstrating their scientific competence. This track reminds women in STEM that their value lies in their minds, contributions, and character rather than their adherence to conventional beauty standards that male colleagues rarely face.
This Is Me by Keala Settle
From “The Greatest Showman” soundtrack, Keala Settle’s “This Is Me” is a powerful anthem about embracing authenticity and refusing to hide in the face of judgment. The 2017 release resonates with women scientists who face discrimination or feel pressured to minimize aspects of their identity in professional settings. The song’s emotional build and defiant lyrics provide catharsis for anyone who has felt othered in scientific spaces, celebrating the strength found in being unapologetically yourself while pursuing excellence in your field.
Phenomenal Woman by Megan Thee Stallion featuring Baby Tate
Megan Thee Stallion’s 2024 track “Phenomenal Woman” samples Maya Angelou’s iconic poem to create a contemporary celebration of female power and excellence. This recent release brings fresh energy to themes of female empowerment with its confident hip-hop beats and unapologetic lyrics about women’s achievements and capabilities. The song serves as a modern anthem for young women entering STEM fields, combining respect for pioneering feminists with contemporary attitudes about claiming space and recognition in traditionally male domains.
Not My Responsibility by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s spoken-word piece “Not My Responsibility” challenges the constant scrutiny and judgment women face regarding their appearance and choices. Originally released as a visual interlude in 2020 and later as an audio track, this piece resonates with female scientists who navigate professional environments where they’re judged on factors unrelated to their scientific capabilities. The track’s meditative quality and powerful message remind women in STEM that they owe no one an explanation for their existence, choices, or path to scientific achievement.
Breakaway by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s “Breakaway” captures the courage required to leave familiar surroundings and pursue ambitious dreams in new territories. Released in 2004, the song speaks to women who choose scientific careers despite family or community expectations for different paths. The track’s themes of taking risks and spreading wings resonate particularly with first-generation college students, women from underrepresented communities, and those who pursue STEM education despite lacking traditional support systems, celebrating the bravery inherent in choosing challenging, unconventional paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a song appropriate for International Day of Women and Girls in Science?
Songs appropriate for this celebration typically feature themes of empowerment, perseverance, intelligence, breaking barriers, and self-confidence that align with the challenges and triumphs women experience in STEM fields. The ideal tracks encourage curiosity, celebrate achievement, and acknowledge the obstacles women face in male-dominated scientific disciplines. Whether through explicit lyrics about strength and independence or metaphorical messages about overcoming adversity, these songs should inspire girls to pursue scientific interests and remind women scientists of their value and capabilities.
How can music support women and girls pursuing science careers?
Music serves as a powerful motivational tool that can boost confidence, reduce stress, and create emotional connections to empowering messages during challenging academic and professional journeys. Studies have shown that listening to empowering music before important tasks can improve performance and self-efficacy, making these songs particularly valuable before exams, presentations, or job interviews. Additionally, shared musical experiences at women in STEM events create community bonds and cultural touchstones that help combat the isolation many women feel in scientific fields where they’re significantly outnumbered by male peers.
Are there specific genres that work best for science-themed playlists?
While empowering songs span all genres from pop and rock to hip-hop and electronic music, the most effective tracks typically feature strong vocals, uplifting melodies, and lyrics that celebrate strength and achievement. Genre preference is highly personal, so the best approach is creating diverse playlists that appeal to various musical tastes while maintaining the central themes of empowerment and perseverance. Some women may find motivation in aggressive hip-hop beats, while others prefer inspirational pop ballads, and the variety ensures that everyone can find tracks that resonate with their personal style while preparing for the challenges of scientific careers.
How can educators use these songs in STEM programs?
Educators can incorporate these empowering tracks into classroom environments, study sessions, and special events celebrating women’s contributions to science, using music to create welcoming atmospheres that counter stereotype threat. Playing these songs before tests or presentations can reduce anxiety and boost student confidence, particularly for girls who may face messaging that they’re less capable in math and science. Additionally, analyzing song lyrics in interdisciplinary lessons can spark discussions about gender equity in STEM fields, helping students critically examine the barriers women face while celebrating progress and possibilities for future generations.
What impact does representation in music have on girls interested in science?
Representation in music videos, lyrics, and artist identities helps girls envision themselves in roles that society may suggest aren’t appropriate for them, including scientific careers. When young girls regularly hear songs celebrating female intelligence, strength, and achievement, these messages counter negative stereotypes about women’s capabilities in analytical and technical fields. The emotional connection people form with music makes these messages particularly powerful compared to purely logical arguments, as the combination of melody, rhythm, and empowering words creates lasting positive associations with female excellence in all domains including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Can listening to music improve performance in scientific work and study?
Research indicates that music can enhance concentration, reduce stress, and improve mood during cognitive tasks, though the optimal type varies by individual and task complexity. Many scientists and students report that listening to instrumental music or familiar songs with empowering messages helps them maintain focus during long laboratory sessions or study periods. The key is finding the right balance where music provides motivation and stress relief without becoming a distraction from the complex cognitive work required in scientific pursuits, and many people find that songs with personal meaning provide the perfect background for pushing through challenging problems.
How have recent music releases addressed themes of female empowerment in STEM?
Contemporary artists increasingly incorporate themes of female intelligence, independence, and professional achievement into mainstream music, reflecting cultural shifts toward gender equity. Recent releases like Megan Thee Stallion’s “Phenomenal Woman” explicitly celebrate female excellence and capability, while many other current tracks contain subtler messages about self-sufficiency and breaking free from limiting expectations. This evolution in popular music provides girls growing up today with more diverse and powerful role models than previous generations had, normalizing the idea that women can and should pursue any career path including those in scientific fields where they’ve historically been underrepresented and undervalued.
What role does music play in creating inclusive STEM environments?
Music can transform physical spaces and create emotional atmospheres that signal inclusion and celebration of diversity in scientific communities. When institutions play empowering music at women in STEM events or incorporate it into departmental culture, they send messages that female achievement is valued and celebrated rather than merely tolerated. Shared musical experiences also facilitate bonding among women scientists who may feel isolated in their specific departments or fields, creating networks of support that help retain women in scientific careers where attrition rates remain problematically high due to hostile or unwelcoming work environments.
How can parents use music to encourage daughters interested in science?
Parents can create playlists featuring empowering songs for their daughters to listen to while studying or working on science projects, associating positive emotions with scientific pursuits. Discussing song lyrics that celebrate female strength and intelligence provides opportunities for conversations about the importance of confidence and perseverance in face of challenges. Additionally, attending concerts by female artists who promote empowering messages or listening to music together creates bonding experiences around themes of female capability, while resources like comparing headphones can help ensure quality listening experiences that make these musical messages even more impactful.
Are there songs by women scientists or about specific scientific achievements?
While most empowering songs don’t explicitly reference scientific concepts, some artists who are themselves educated in STEM fields or passionate about science incorporate these themes into their work. Additionally, educational music projects and STEM advocacy organizations have commissioned songs specifically about women scientists like Marie Curie, Rosalind Franklin, and Katherine Johnson to make their stories more accessible. Though these explicitly science-focused songs may not achieve mainstream popularity, they serve important educational functions and provide representations of female scientists in a musical medium that resonates with young audiences more effectively than traditional educational materials.
How often should these playlists be updated with new releases?
Keeping science empowerment playlists current with recent releases ensures they remain relevant and engaging for young audiences who often prefer contemporary music. Updating quarterly or when significant new empowering tracks are released maintains freshness while preserving classic anthems that continue to resonate across generations. The combination of timeless songs that have proven their motivational value and current releases that reflect modern attitudes toward gender equity creates the most effective playlists for supporting women and girls in science, and regularly exploring new songs ensures you don’t miss emerging anthems that could become meaningful additions to your collection.
What should I look for when choosing equipment to enjoy these songs?
The emotional impact of empowering music is enhanced when heard through quality audio equipment that reproduces the full range of vocals and instrumentation. Investing in good headphones or earbuds ensures you catch every nuance of powerful vocal performances and don’t miss the layered production that makes these tracks so moving. When comparing earbuds for this purpose, consider factors like comfort for extended listening during study sessions, sound isolation to maintain focus in busy environments, and battery life for all-day motivation, as the right equipment transforms these songs from background noise into powerful tools for maintaining confidence and determination throughout your scientific journey.