Songs About Failure
Songs about failure can help remind listeners it is okay to fall down as long as you get back up again, while inspiring people to persevere in pursuit of their dreams even when obstacles seem insurmountable. Here are most beloved songs about failure.
Post Malone – Congratulations ft. Quavo
Post Malone has taken pop by storm this year with his fleeting melodies and provocative lyrics, earning top 10 hits on Billboard charts. “Congratulations” stands out among them as it features Quavo to celebrate an artist’s success.
Its lyrics feature his luxurious lifestyle – money and women – as well as past struggles which he overcame through hard work and determination, creating an inspiring anthem for fans to listen to. This theme makes the song particularly relatable. This work by Post Malone is one of the first ones that come to mind among songs about failure.
Post Malone fans should make time to listen to this upbeat track with its impressive production and irresistibly catchy melody; no wonder it has garnered such positive reviews from music critics worldwide! Post Malone stands out with his distinctive vocals, sure to capture their fans worldwide.
Linkin Park – In The End
Linkin Park’s In The End remains one of their signature songs, beloved by listeners across generations and cultures alike. A profound track, its message can be understood in different ways depending on whom is listening.
It serves as both an anti-toxic masculinity message and an anti-bullying tune, making it immensely popular. This track is one of the most popular songs about failure.
Mike Shinoda begins by rapping to an infectious beat amidst thorny plants in an almost desert-like setting, then moves into a greener landscape where grass and flowers begin growing. As the video progresses, grasses and flowers start sprouting throughout his surroundings.
Eminem – Lose Yourself
Lose Yourself is one of the signature tracks from Eminem’s career, both emotionally and motivationally. Its compelling lyrics and intricate rhyming schemes show his mastery of storytelling while its unflinching social commentary breaks boundaries usually avoided in mainstream rap music.
This song is an anthem to perseverance, inspiring many with its do-or-die attitude. Barack Obama used it in his 2008 presidential campaign and Lin-Manuel Miranda featured it prominently in Hamilton. Among songs about failure, it would be impossible not to mention this song by Eminem. This song is one of the most original songs about failure.
Eminem managed to blur the lines between fiction and reality on this track by dramatizing his struggles as a Detroit teenager. While the song seems to focus on Rabbit from 8 Mile, but could also refer to himself. With its driving beat and dramatic narration opening narration creating an environment conducive for success for listeners listening.
Radiohead – Creep
Thom Yorke admits in this song to feeling alienated from life’s beautiful gifts. This perspective of an outsider made Radiohead such a popular band back in the 90’s, and remains important today.
Creep was not their initial single. Originally recorded at the request of producers Sean Slade and Paul Q Kolderie while working on their debut album Pablo Honey, it flopped when first released but eventually got revised and given another try by the band. This song is one of the most original songs about failure. And also don’t forget the check radiohead love songs list.
Drake – Started From The Bottom
Drake discusses past relationships on this track, while explaining his desire to spend more time with a woman going forward. Unfortunately, this song lacks a music video but has an audio version which includes album art. This unforgettable song is one of the most high-energy among songs about failure.
Drake and Lil Baby discuss what they desire and need in this song. Drake acknowledges he does not come from a lower-class environment but acknowledges he grew up hardworking despite any obstacles; they express concern that their success might make them less authentic rappers.
Akon – Sorry, Blame It On Me
This song by Akon features tinny drum beats and nasal vocals reminiscent of teenager ringtones, with Akon offering his apology for everything hes ever done in his personal life. In its first verse he acknowledges how success has taken its toll, offering his sorrow for any hurt caused. During its second verse dedicated to family he apologizes to his mother for growing up too fast and for being a thief. This successful song has one of the most emotional lyrics among songs about failure.
He further apologizes for admitting an underage girl into the club and for dry humping her on stage, but also takes responsibility for having given her access. However, he places blame on both herself and her parents if their IDs were falsified so as to allow access to clubs like these. In addition, Verizon dropped their sponsorship of Gwen Stefanis tour.
Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Eminem – Forever
Though released back in 2009, this song remains one of the slickest posse cuts ever to hit radio waves. Produced by Boi-1da and featuring Eminem, Kanye West, Lil Wayne and prized rookie Drake; all come together on this epic collabo rap track produced by Boi-1da and featuring prized rapper Boi-1da as producer. Drake delivers with unrivaled energy while Kanye and Lil Wayne bring in their respective arsenal of superstars including Eminem; Eminem boasts stadium crowds while West and Lil Wayne alongside Lil Wayne have their respective teams; all come together in unison to perform this epic collabo. It is considered as one of songs about failure.
Lil Wayne had become a household name due to his groundbreaking mixtape run and firm conviction that Kobe Bryant is the greatest player alive, which made his verse both engaging and powerful for this iconic lineup. Kanye West meanwhile was well known as a veteran with nine studio albums under his belt and 21 Grammy awards under his name as well as being founder of GOOD Music and fashion label Yeezy.
Kendrick Lamar – DNA
Kendrick Lamar is one of the best rappers in the world, and his latest album DAMN. has shown this. From Miles samples to Flying Lotus electronic burbles, this album demands multiple listens in order to fully appreciate its depths. DNA, the second track on DAMN., explores themes of loyalty and royalty while emphasizing how black lives should not be judged solely through genocidal stereotypes of death.
DNA explores identity and roots. In an age where hip hop culture can often be perceived negatively, this song showcases that hip hop can be an avenue of pride. The song stands out with a hard-hitting beat; but Lamar’s lyrics truly make this classic stand out.
Daniel Powter – Bad Day
Bad Day by Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Powter was released as the lead single from his self-titled second studio album in 2005 and features an upbeat melody about experiencing difficulties and how to overcome them. It was an international phenomenon and sold over two million digital copies just in the US alone. Additionally, it appeared in numerous television advertisements and parodied by many artists and shows alike.
The music video for “Bad Day” depicts a man and woman going about their daily routines for three days before finally coming together at the end of it all, when he offers her his umbrella as a symbolic gesture to help each other during difficult times. It can be listed as one of songs about failure.
Kenny Rogers – The Gambler
Kenny Rogers starred in this 1978 made-for-TV Western, loosely inspired by his popular song of the same name. Rogers plays Brady Hawkes, an unlikely card sharp living in a Wild West card room who discovers he has an unknown son named Sammy who never knew he existed.
Rogers had lost many of his prime years to a declining career, yet still managed to make this film an audience-pleaser and prove country music can still tell stories on film. Working closely with director Dick Lowry and composer Larry Cansler created an unforgettable score which helped counterbalance an otherwise banal script.
Breaking Benjamin – Failure
It can be counted as a different track when we consider songs about failure. “Failure” is a song by the American rock band Breaking Benjamin. It was released as the lead single from their fifth studio album, “Dark Before Dawn,” which came out in 2015. The song became a significant hit for the band, reaching high positions on various rock charts.
“Failure” is characterized by its powerful and melodic rock sound, featuring the band’s signature heavy guitar riffs, strong vocals by frontman Benjamin Burnley, and an anthemic chorus. Lyrically, the song explores themes of overcoming obstacles, perseverance, and the fear of failure.
Trevor Daniel – Falling
With its lyrics, it can be listed among songs about failure. “Falling” is a song by Trevor Daniel, an American singer-songwriter known for his blend of pop, R&B, and electronic music. Released in October 2018, “Falling” gained significant popularity after its initial release, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, where it went viral.
The song became a breakout hit for Trevor Daniel, largely due to its catchy chorus, emotional lyrics, and the relatability of its themes, which revolve around heartbreak and falling for someone who may not reciprocate those feelings.
“Falling” propelled Trevor Daniel into the spotlight and garnered attention worldwide. Its success led to the song being remixed and featured in various online content, boosting its popularity even further.