Music for the Youthful Soul

Music for the Youthful Soul

Music is a universal language that everyone around the world can relate too. Even in it's different varieties and genres, we can all agree that there's something about the way our brain interprets all these soundwaves. Music can make us put aside our differences. It can even help us unite.

It can be psychologically and emotionally nourishing. When the world collapses in around you, music can turn out to be the only friend there for you, the only thing that can make you feel better.

And in this movement called 'Youth Empowerment' bumps are expected to be hit in the road. So, music, in any definition and form, is a great outlet. Not only to release our orginality and creativity, but also our stress and anxieties. Listening to a song can be empowering!

So here are a few of our favorite picks -- and the reason why their part of the perfect, Youth Empowerment playlist!

1. Jonas Brother's "Kids of the Future"

Featured in the animated movie, Disney's "Meet the Robinson", this Jo-Bro tune is a catchy song that completely captures the essence of what the Youth Empowerment movement is all about: the Youths of today being 'the Kids of the Future'. The generation of now, stepping up and shaping a better tomorrow.

2. Ryan Star's "So Ordinary"

A slightly mellow, piano-oriented song, the lyrics of 'So Ordinary' convey a strong message relatable to the modern present. We Youths need to break out. Break out of 'this modern day belief of not to try' and stop being 'so ordinary', in this apathic world.

3. John Lennon's "Blackbird"

I guess in a sense, we're all blackbirds. Small, just beginning to spread our wings. We're singing, but in the dead of night when no one can hear us, waiting. Waiting for the moment to arise, when we Youths can finally fly free.

4. Katy Perry's "Firework"

Upbeat, catchy and the perfect 'love-yourself' anthem, "Firework" sung by this California Gurl reminds us that we Youths have a spark in each and everyone of us. We're all individuals. We just need to ignite our light and shine! :)

5. Journey's "Don't Stop Believing"

Written by one of the most famous rock bands, the title is uplifting on its own. Being the 'signature song' of the hit series Glee!, a show that embraces 'different' and the spirit of the underdog, it'll have you keep your hopes up in living Youth Empowered!

6. Lady Gaga's "Born This Way"

Say hello to the "Queen of Self-Acceptance"! Lady Gaga who is known for being out there, different and well, her quirky, extravagantly dressed self, has once said that she wrote 'Born This Way' for her fans! So embrace it Youths! You were "Born This Way" and without a doubt, you're on the right track, baby! :)

7. Johnny Rzeznik's "I'm Still Here"

Being the lead singer of the Goo Goo Dolls, Johnny Rzeznik delivers a soft rock number with his raw, well-ranged voice. Featured in the Disney animation of "Treasure Planet" it captures the coming-of-age story of a young man's struggle to prove himself. And even if we Youths get knocked around, this song will leave you thinking, 'I'm still here'!

8. Wicked's “:Defying Gravity”

When we're young, it's easy to feel constricted. Caged, even, like our feet are always being pulled to the ground whenever we feel like flying. This song composed for the phenomenal Broadway musical, Wicked, is all about breaking barriers and taking chances, because we Youths are very capable of 'defying gravity'.

9. YOG's "Everyone"

In 2010, a historic, Youthful event happened. The first ever Youth Olympic Games was held in Singapore. To commemorate such and event, a theme song was written for YOG. Sung by different artists representing different continents of the world (Sean Kingston, Tabitha Nauser, Jody Williams, Jessica Mauboy, and Steve Appleton), this song reminds us that we Youths, plural, are in this together, trying to make this world a better place for everyone.

So there you have it. 9 amazing songs you can add to your iPod/MP3 player, listen to, and start the day feeling empowered! Enjoy!

Karin Novelia [Indonesia]