Uplifting Woman Songs
You Go Girl!
As women, there are some shamefully negative stereotypes that proceed us as it relates to how we treat others -especially women.We’re catty, we’re competitive, we can’t get along, spiteful, scornful, and in general-just too damn emotional.Add that on top of how hard it is to just be a womandealing with issues in love, our career, and holding together families -it can all be very overwhelming. That is why we are grateful to the women in the limelight who are given a platform with their music to show we can also be supportive, nurturing, encouraging, positive, and forthright.The women who have created songs that point out we can come out of our issues victorious and not the victim, that problems of life will pass, and that loving and respecting ourselves first is essential. Last week ESSENCE.com tipped our hats to the men who showed appreciation and respect to Black women through their music, and now we applaud the women who support and uplift Black women as well. Here are the top 10 inspirational songs for the ladies, by the ladies:
“Alright,” Ledisi (2007)
Life is made up of the things you don’t prepare for. Ledisi reminds us in this song how important it is to be flexible so you don’t get bent out of shape. Optimism is always the best approach to life’s difficulties.
“Golden,” Jill Scott (2009)
Jilly from Philly sings about embracing our womanly power from within. To use our freedom as women to live a life that we appreciate and are satisfied with.A life that produces a inner glow and feels “golden.”
“Just Fine,” Mary J. Blige (2007)
Like Blige says in the intro of this uptempo track, “It’s something about this joint right here, that makes me wanna woo.” The song discusses loving self no matter what. She encourages self esteem and self confidence, while pointing out when happiness comes from within no one can take it away.
“Survivor,” Destiny’s Child (2001)
“I’m Every Woman,” Chaka Khan (1978)
There’s nothing like the allure of a woman.Women have power, if used properly, nurtures all those that woman chooses to love.Chaka reminds women of their special ‘natural’ magic, and created an anthem to make sure everyone recognizes it.
“I Learned From The Best,” Whitney Houston (1998)
Whitney insists women never take any mess from a man, and sings about when woman’s fed up there is nothing you can do about it.On the track she sings about when someone has dragged you through the mud, revenge is a dish best served cold.
“A Woman’s Worth,” Alicia Keys (2001)
Women who knows their worth, never should or will have to make apologies for having standards or expectations.Alicia spews out the truth and encourages all the real woman not to worry: Real men can’t deny the worth of a real woman.
“Free Your Mind,” En Vogue (1992)
En Vogue surprised us with this rock inspired anthem that used a famous George Clinton lyric. It became an anti-prejudiced, anti-sexist, anti-racist theme song for Black women who dared to be different.En Vogue compelled women to use their freedom to do as they wish, and not worry about what the next person thinks.
“Me, Myself, and I,” Beyonce (2003)
The song prompts us to hope for the best and prepare for the worse.Realizing you grow as a woman the less you rely on others, especially men, to make you whole. Being your own best friend first is what completes you.
“Ladies First,” Queen Latifah ft. Monie Love (1989)
The song became hip hop’s first feminist anthem.Love and Latifah both stated that although women may be underestimated, women should neverbe bound by sexist stereotypes. Anything a man can do, a woman can do just as well.