Love songs are a popular genre of music. There are literally millions of love songs out there. But there’s one sub-genre of love songs that often goes overlooked: songs about self-love.
Self-love songs can be anything about accepting yourself, staying true to your values, or empowering yourself after adversity.
In this list, we’ll dive into 31 of the best songs about loving yourself. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old. These songs will remind you that you are enough. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. “Love Myself” By Hailee Steinfeld
First on our list is a song with “love myself” in the title. And Hailee Steinfeld’s “Love Myself” is nothing short of empowering.
The song begins with Steinfeld coping with the loss of a lover, imbued with some erotic connotations such as satisfying herself and touching the pain way. The chorus builds up with Steinfeld singing, “I love me. Gonna love myself, no, I don’t need anybody else.”
The song is a perfect way to kick off this list. It is a reminder that we can find love within ourselves and be content without depending on anyone. It is also a song of encouragement: of continuing to love and be happy despite the pain of loss.
2. “Scars To Your Beautiful” By Alesia Cara
Next, we have another empowering song about positive self-image. Alesia Cara’s “Scars to Your Beautiful” is addressed mainly to women who are faced with the daily pressures to look and be perfect.
In the chorus, Cara challenges societal beauty standards, saying, “You don’t have to change a thing; the world could change its heart.” The line “no scars to your beautiful” is a powerful reminder that our imperfections are what makes us truly beautiful.
In a world where many are constantly striving for perfection, the song sends an impactful message that true beauty lies in authenticity and self-acceptance. It encourages us to celebrate our uniqueness and to be kinder to ourselves and others.
3. “Try” By Colbie Caillat
When it comes to self-image and self-love, Colbie Caillat’s “Try” has a lot to say about it. This powerful song speaks of the pressures to conform and look a certain way in order to be accepted.
She poses a thought-provoking question prior to the chorus. She asks listeners, “Do you like you?” This is a reminder that we should be true to ourselves and learn to love who we are, no matter how different we feel from the people around us.
The song speaks of embracing one’s individuality rather than trying to fit into a certain mold. It encourages us to break free from our insecurities and find the courage to embrace who we are — flaws and all.
4. “Love Myself” By Andy Grammer
We rarely have self-love songs written and sung by a male artist. But Andy Grammer didn’t shy away from this topic with his 2021 single, “Love Myself.”
This song mentions loving yourself by accepting yourself just as you are. Grammer emphasizes this in the bridge, singing, “I want to love myself without needing someone else. To say it, say it to me.”
The song speaks of how we should practice loving ourselves, as much as we love others — or perhaps even more. It is a reminder that developing self-love is an ongoing journey, that you don’t just say it to yourself but also feel it within.
5. “Who Says?” By Selena Gomez & The Scene
In real life, celebrity and singer Selena Gomez is open about her struggles with her self-image. It’s no wonder that she addressed this in her 2011 track “Who Says?” which she performed with her former band The Scene.
According to Gomez, “Who Says?” is her sassy way of firing back against cyberbullying. The song challenges listeners to question “who says” they’re not perfect, worth it, and beautiful, when in truth, they already are.
Gomez emphasizes her message, telling listeners that they deserve every right to live a beautiful life. “Who Says?” ultimately serves as a reminder that no matter what your insecurities tell you, you are more than enough.
6. “Beautiful” By Christina Aguilera
Regarded as an LGBTQ anthem, “Beautiful” is a powerful song about self-acceptance by none other than Christina Aguilera.
The song starts off with a melancholic tone, describing the singer’s deep pain from all her insecurities. The chorus builds up, with Aguilera singing “I am beautiful no matter what they say. Words can’t bring me down.”
Through this song, Aguilera sends out a powerful message that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. The song is an incredible reminder that you should never let other people’s opinions define your worth.
7. “Confident” By Demi Lovato
Nothing spells self-love more than one’s confidence, and that’s what Demi Lovato’s “Confident” is about. Released in 2015, Lovato felt ready to share with the world how proud they felt about themself.
Lovato is the perfect person to sing about being comfortable in your own skin. As a child, they struggled with self-image. And as a survivor, they overcame their eating disorder.
Powerful vocals and spunky attitude make this song an anthem for all who’ve ever been told that they were anything less than beautiful. And they are on point with the repeated line in the chorus: “What’s wrong with being confident?”
8. “Fight Song” By Rachel Platten
A song that Rachel Platten wrote as a reminder for herself has become an inspirational song for survivors. “Fight Song” was released in 2015 as part of her debut EP and was re-released in her studio album the following year.
In an interview, Platten revealed that she wrote it at a low point in her life and that she didn’t intend for it to be released to the public. But to her surprise, it ended up becoming an international success, which is well-deserved.
The song is immensely uplifting, with an inspiring chorus that rallies listeners to fight and take their life back. “Fight Song” conveys a powerful message that it’s possible to overcome adversity and find strength even in the toughest of times.
9. “Epiphany” By BTS
There is no shortage of English songs about self-love. But “Epiphany” by the K-pop sensation BTS deserves a spot on this list.
“Epiphany” is part of the trilogy of albums that BTS released for their Love Myself Campaign. This is a global campaign that they initiated alongside UNICEF to promote self-love among young people.
Sung mainly in Korean, the English translation of the chorus features the lines “I’m the one I should love in this world . . . I finally realized I love me.” These lines allude to the “epiphany” that the singer experienced: that he is capable of loving himself, even in the face of hardship.
10. “Born This Way” By Lady Gaga
Another LGBTQ anthem on our list, Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” is a song of self-liberation and acceptance. This 2011 single encourages listeners to love who they are and accept their uniqueness without fear.
Gaga sings “I’m beautiful in my way, ’cause God makes no mistakes,” promoting the idea that everyone is special in their own way. She addresses issues about gender identity, race, and even religion, emphasizing that everyone is equal and worthy of respect.
The song is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to feel accepted, regardless of any differences they might have. It encourages us to stay true to ourselves and be proud of who we are.
11. “Flowers” By Miley Cyrus
One of the latest breakup anthems of our time is Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers.” This disco-pop track is about her tumultuous relationship with her ex-husband, actor Liam Hemsworth.
The song starts with an upbeat yet wistful memory of their early days of being in love. However, in the chorus, her strength post-breakup is apparent with the line, “I can love me better than you can.”
At its core, “Flowers” is an expression of newfound independence and strength. It is also an emotionally charged song that captures the essence of healing and self-discovery after a painful breakup.
12. “I Love Me” By Meghan Trainor Ft. LunchMoney Lewis
Known for her numerous songs about self-love, Meghan Trainor’s 2016 track “I Love Me” is a valuable addition to this list. She collaborated with rapper LunchMoney Lewis celebrating the beauty of loving yourself.
Like her other songs, “I Love Me” is a body-positive anthem. With rapper Lewis’ verses and Trainor’s sunny vocals, the track captures the joy of self-acceptance.
In their duet in the chorus, Trainor and Lewis sing, “I don’t know about you, but baby, I love me.” The bridge also strengthens this message, with the line, “I love all y’all, but I love me most.”
“I Love Me” is an instant pick-me-up for anyone who needs it, and it ultimately leaves its audience loving themselves even more.
13. “Rise Up” By Andra Day
Our next song was initially meant to be an all-encompassing protest song. But Andra Day’s “Rise Up” is also considered a song of empowerment for many survivors — ranging from abuse, sexual assault, and all kinds of trauma.
The song is a reminder to these survivors that, no matter what happens, they are resilient. The lyrics “I’ll rise up in spite of the ache; I will rise a thousand times again” convey an empowering message that survivors have the power to get through their battles and be whole again.
The ending of the song substitutes “I” with “we,” emphasizing the power of solidarity in the face of adversity.
14. “Stronger” By Britney Spears
The Princess of Pop Britney Spears has a long history of mental health challenges and a fair share of heartaches. Her 2000 track “Stronger” addresses both with an empowering message about finding strength in the face of hard times.
Initially written as a breakup song, “Stronger” also doubles as an inspirational song of resilience. Its lyrics celebrate the power of regaining independence and strength: “I’m stronger than yesterday . . . my loneliness ain’t killing me no more.”
In light of the #FreeBritney movement, the song’s message has taken on a new meaning. The movement aims to free the pop star from the conservatorship of her own father, which has enabled him to take control of her business and personal decisions.
As she continues to fight for her autonomy, “Stronger” serves as her own reminder that there is still strength and power within us all.
15. “Broken And Beautiful” By Kelly Clarkson
Created as a soundtrack for the film UglyDolls is Kelly Clarkson’s “Broken and Beautiful.” This song perfectly complements the film’s themes of self-acceptance.
UglyDolls is a kids’ movie that encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate the beauty of being different. These themes are echoed in the song’s lyrics, which talk about being broken and vulnerable but still beautiful.
In a world where there is so much pressure to conform, “Broken and Beautiful” is a reminder that we all have something special about us. It also sends a positive message to children that our imperfections are what makes us unique.
16. “Firework” By Katy Perry
One of the most popular songs of 2010 is Katy Perry’s “Firework.” This dance-pop hit is all about self-love and empowerment.
The song starts with a slower tempo, describing the feeling of hopelessness and unworthiness. However, the song builds up, encouraging listeners to let the spark in them shine brighter.
The chorus “Baby, you’re a firework. Come on, show them what you’re worth” sends a strong message to listeners: that each one of us has a unique brilliance within, waiting to be unleashed.
Perry’s “Firework” is more than just a pop song. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call to embrace our inner light.
17. “This Is Me” By Keala Settle & The Greatest Showman Ensemble
Circuses are known for their exotic performances and bizarre acts. The 2017 musical drama The Greatest Showman is exactly about that — and more. One of the soundtracks for the film is “This Is Me,” sung by Keala Settle who plays the Bearded Woman.
Shunned by the public for being different, she breaks into song alongside the circus troupe to proudly proclaim their self-acceptance.
“I am brave, I am bruised, I am who I’m meant to be. This is me.” These powerful lines from the chorus serve as an inspiring anthem for anyone struggling with being ostracized for their differences.
The song is a reminder that we all have unique talents and abilities that should be embraced, not hidden away and suppressed in fear of judgment.
18. “Perfect” By Anne-Marie
Perfection is something that many of us strive for, but what makes us human is our flaws. This is what Anne-Marie’s “Perfect” is about. There’s beauty in imperfection, and it’s important to embrace and accept our flaws.
The lyrics tell a story of self-love and empowerment: “Love every single part of my body, top to the bottom. I’m not a supermodel from a magazine. I’m okay with not being perfect, ’cause that’s perfect to me.”
The upbeat, catchy rhythm adds to the song’s vibe of joy and acceptance. It’s a great reminder that we are all perfectly imperfect, and that’s exactly what makes us unique.
19. “Masterpiece” By Jessie J
Music artists often get the brunt of public scrutiny and criticism. Jessie J addresses this unnecessary hate in “Masterpiece,” a self-empowerment song that even ordinary citizens can relate to.
The lyrics emphasize how we are all works in progress, and that is perfectly okay: “I can’t color inside the lines, ’cause I’m perfectly incomplete. I’m still working on my masterpiece.”
The song also encourages listeners to continue shining despite the haters, because what other people think about you doesn’t matter. It is a powerful song that reminds us that we are all masterpieces in our own right.
20. “Cup Of Tea” By Kacey Musgraves
Not everyone is going to like you. There will always be someone who doesn’t approve of your actions and words. And Kacey Musgraves helps us all realize that it’s okay to be ourselves in her song “Cup of Tea.”
The chorus underscores this point: “Nobody’s everybody’s favorite, so you might as well just make it how you please.” She adds another thought-provoking line: “You can’t be everybody’s cup of tea. Why would you wanna be?”
With its cute country-pop vibe, “Cup of Tea” is a pleasant track to listen to whenever you need a reminder to live life on your own terms rather than constantly seeking approval from others.
21. “Warrior” By Demi Lovato
We have another entry from Demi Lovato, whose discography is a treasure trove of self-love and empowerment songs. “Warrior” is a personal track for Lovato, who is a survivor of numerous mental health issues and trauma.
Every line of the song is an emotional punch of all that the singer has gone through. Yet in spite of it all, she has risen from the ashes: “I’m a survivor, in more ways than you know . . . Now, I’m a warrior, now I’ve got thicker skin.”
In an interview, Lovato shared how the song is the most vulnerable she has ever written but also the most meaningful. She even has the line of the song tattooed on her skin, a permanent reminder of her strength and resilience.
22. “Unstoppable” By Sia
We have another song that’s popular with trauma survivors: Sia’s 2016 track “Unstoppable.” From the very first note, the song sets an uplifting tone that refuses to be subdued.
The lyrics speak of strength and tenacity: “I put my armor on, show you how strong I am . . . I’m so confident, yeah, I’m unstoppable today.” “Unstoppable” doesn’t just preach empowerment; it embodies it. Sia’s own journey of overcoming personal struggles adds authenticity to the song’s message.
So, whether you’re a trauma survivor or simply in need of a dose of self-love, this song is a musical masterpiece that will lift your spirits.
23. “Real” By Kendrick Lamar Ft. Anna Wise
We mentioned before how male artists rarely address self-love in their music, especially rappers who are often associated with themes of bravado. However, Kendrick Lamar isn’t afraid to break this mold with his song “Real,” in which he collaborated with Anna Wise.
Lamar’s upbringing was marked by the harsh realities of violence that many black individuals in California face. He alludes to some of his struggles in “Real,” adding a positive insight about self-love: “But what love got to do with it when you don’t love yourself?”
Wise’s hauntingly beautiful vocals provide a stark contrast to Lamar’s verses. Her chorus, “I’m real, I’m real, I’m really, really, really real,” serves as a mantra of self-affirmation.
24. “Wings” By Little Mix
British girl group Little Mix started out strong with their debut single “Wings.” This song became a cornerstone in their mission to spread the message of self-love and empowerment, exemplifying their commitment to these values.
The song is both an anthem and a testament to the group’s tenacity and beauty, akin to a butterfly. This is underscored in the chorus: “Don’t let what they say keep you up at night. And they can’t detain you ’cause wings are made to fly.”
The central metaphor of wings in the song is significant: it symbolizes freedom and self-discovery. It is also a reminder that each person has the inherent ability to rise above adversity and that there’s beauty in strength.
25. “Praying” By Kesha
Known for her upbeat electropop music, Kesha introduced a refreshing take on her music with her pop ballad “Praying.”
At the heart of “Praying” is a narrative of resilience and inner strength. These lines are significantly poignant after Kesha describes the hell she went through: “I’m proud of who I am. No more monsters; I can breathe again.”
The lyrics of “Praying” are a testament to Kesha’s own battles, particularly her legal struggles and public battles with her former producer, Dr. Luke. Through this song, she channels her pain into a message of self-love and self-acceptance.
It’s a song that not only speaks to her own experiences but also resonates with anyone who has faced adversity and found the strength to heal and forgive.
26. “Love Me More” By Sam Smith
An artist who never shies away from being their authentic self is Sam Smith. They showed their vulnerability in their 2022 song “Love Me More.”
In the lyrics, Smith skillfully weaves a tale of personal transformation: from initially doubting their own worth to embracing their true self. The lyrics say this all: “Lately, it’s not hurting like it did before. Maybe I am learning how to love me more.”
The song conveys an inspiring message that self-love is a powerful force for transformation. Despite the often difficult journey of self-discovery, we can find peace and strength in knowing our worth.
27. “Save Myself” By Ed Sheeran
Some of us have the false notion that popular celebrities are immune to life’s struggles. However, the truth is far from that, and it’s apparent in Ed Sheeran’s “Save Myself.”
The soft piano chords and Sheeran’s gentle voice echo the sentiments of a broken person. The lyrics convey a powerful message of the importance of self-care and self-love to one’s mental health.
These lines carry a particular weight: “Before I save someone else, I’ve got to save myself . . . and before I love someone else, I’ve got to love myself.” Sheeran’s vulnerability in this song reinforces the idea that we all have a duty to ourselves first.
This poignant song with “love myself” in the lyrics is a reminder that by prioritizing our own well-being, we can be in a much better place to help others.
28. “ME!” By Taylor Swift Ft. Brendon Urie
Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift is an artist who exudes self-confidence both in her music and in real life. And this is clear in her collaboration with Panic! At the Disco lead vocalist Brendon Urie called “ME!”
The song is a bubblegum-pop track with a music video that’s literally popping in pastel. At its core, it’s an anthem of self-love and self-celebration. Swift boldly declares some of her quirks and flaws in the song, such as being a handful and a troublemaker.
The chorus bursts with energy as she sings, “I’m the only one of me. Baby, that’s the fun of me.” In a tongue-in-cheek delivery, the bridge features lines like, “You can’t spell awesome without ‘me!’”
The playful and empowering message of “ME!” fosters a sense of empowerment in listeners. It underscores the importance of embracing one’s true self and finding strength in one’s individuality.
29. “Fabulous” By Ally Brooke
Fifth Harmony member Ally Brooke was truly fabulous in her solo song “Fabulous.” The track was released following the girl group’s indefinite hiatus, yet still carries Fifth Harmony’s signature pop sound.
The song is a heart-thumping pop bop about being unapologetically yourself. The lyrics clearly reflect this theme: “I got my flaws, but man, I’m gorgeous . . . I’m just gonna love myself. I already know I’m fabulous.”
The empowering message of self-love resonates throughout the track, making it a great confidence booster for listeners. “Fabulous” serves as a reminder that you are more than enough and should never be ashamed of shining bright.
30. “Love Yourself” By Mary J. Blige Ft. Kanye West
The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige dropped a soulful self-love anthem with “Love Yourself.”This collaboration with Kanye West was released in 2017.
The song speaks to the necessity of loving yourself first before anyone else. The chorus clearly emphasizes this: “Everybody don’t mean you well. You gotta love yourself before you love somebody else.”
West’s rap verse introduces a contrasting perspective. He explores the complexities of self-esteem in a world where external validation takes precedence. The song serves as a powerful reminder to be kind to yourself and that self-love is vital to a healthy, balanced life.
31. “Brave” By Sara Bareilles
We end this list with Sara Bareilles’ 2013 power pop song, “Brave.” Initially written for Bareilles’ friend who was struggling with their sexuality, it became an anthem of self-acceptance.
Through her lyrical storytelling, Bareilles encourages us to “be brave” and to speak out our truths. The line “Let your words be anything but empty” sends an uplifting message that our truth carries power and is worth being shared.
The themes of empowerment are also underscored with themes of self-love and inclusivity. “Brave” has been adopted as an anthem for LGBTQ+ rights and speaks to the power of expressing yourself even when it’s hard.
Summing Up Our List Of Self-Love Songs
We come to the end of our post today and we hope you liked our selection of self-love anthems.
If there are more songs that you think should be included in this list, please share it with us! It can be anything that resonates with you, in any language and genre. We’d love to hear your thoughts!
With that said, always remember: You are worth loving. Take care of yourself today and every day — because you matter.
