55 Inspirational Songs for Slideshows: Find your Perfect Song Here

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Last Updated on August 30, 2024 by Eventful Words

As we all know, music has the power to evoke emotions and capture memories. It can transport us to a different time and place, bring back forgotten feelings, and create a sense of nostalgia. When it comes to creating a slideshow, choosing the right song can make all the difference in the world. It can elevate the visuals and evoke a powerful emotional response from the viewer.

But with so many songs out there, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one. Luckily, we’ve curated a collection of the best inspirational songs for slideshows. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey.

Best Inspirational Songs for Slideshows

Inspirational Songs for Slideshows pin

Slideshows are a great way to showcase memorable moments in your life. Whether it’s a graduation ceremony, a wedding, a simple family gathering, or a personal collection, creating a slideshow can help you relive those moments again and again. But, what makes a good slideshow great? The right music! 

However, finding the right music for your slideshow can be a challenge. You want to choose songs that are not only inspiring but also complement the visuals and stir up memories. However, choosing the perfect soundtrack for your slideshow can be a daunting task, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best inspirational songs for slideshows that will make your memories shine even brighter

1. Beautiful Day by U2

Beautiful Day by U2 is a classic song that never fails to inspire and uplift. The song has a bright, upbeat tempo that is perfect for showcasing happy moments such as weddings, birthdays, and family vacations. The lyrics are optimistic and encourage you to appreciate the beauty of life. This song is ideal for the opening slide or as a background track throughout the slideshow.

U2 - Beautiful Day (Official Music Video)

2. All You Need is Love by The Beatles

All You Need is Love by The Beatles is another timeless classic that is perfect for slideshows. The song’s message is universal and encourages love and unity. The lyrics are simple but powerful and can fit well with a variety of themes. This song is ideal for showcasing family moments, romantic relationships, or any occasion that celebrates love.

All You Need Is Love (Remastered 2015)

3. Stronger by Britney Spears

“Stronger” by Britney Spears is a powerful anthem that encourages strength and resilience. The song has a driving beat and empowering lyrics that make it ideal for showcasing achievements, overcoming challenges, and personal growth. This song is perfect for the closing slide or as a background track during the climax of the slideshow.

Britney Spears - Stronger (Official HD Video)

4. Fighter by Christina Aguilera

“Fighter” by Christina Aguilera is another empowering song that encourages strength and resilience. The song’s lyrics are about overcoming adversity and becoming stronger as a result. The song has a powerful chorus that can inspire and uplift. This song is ideal for showcasing personal victories, overcoming obstacles, and moments of triumph.

Christina Aguilera - Fighter (Official HD Video)

5. Smile by Katy Perry

Smile by Katy Perry is a fun and uplifting song that encourages happiness and positivity. The song has a catchy tune and cheerful lyrics that make it perfect for showcasing joyful moments. This song is ideal for showcasing happy times with family and friends, vacations, and any occasion that celebrates joy and laughter.

Katy Perry - Smile

6. Hard by Rihanna

Hard by Rihanna is a powerful song that encourages strength and determination. The song’s lyrics are about pushing through adversity and never giving up. The song has a driving beat and empowering lyrics that make it ideal for showcasing personal victories, overcoming challenges, and moments of triumph.

Rihanna - Hard ft. Jeezy

7. A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay

A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay is a beautiful and uplifting song that encourages hope and optimism. The song has a melodic tune and inspiring lyrics that make it perfect for showcasing beautiful moments. This song is ideal for showcasing nature, landscapes, or any occasion that celebrates beauty and wonder.

Coldplay - A Sky Full Of Stars (Official Video)

8. Brave by Sara Bareilles

Brave by Sara Bareilles is a powerful song that encourages you to be true to yourself and stand up for what you believe in. The song has an empowering chorus and inspiring lyrics that make it ideal for showcasing personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and moments of triumph.

Sara Bareilles - Brave (Official Video)

9. Hall of Fame by the Script

Hall of Fame by the Script is an inspiring song that encourages you to pursue your dreams and achieve greatness. The song has a powerful chorus and motivating lyrics that make it perfect for showcasing achievements, personal growth, and moments of triumph. This song is ideal for the closing slide or as a background track during the climax of the slideshow.

The Script - Hall of Fame (Official Video) ft. will.i.am

10. Work Hard, Play Hard by Wiz Khalifa

Work Hard, Play Hard by Wiz Khalifa is an upbeat and motivating song that encourages you to work hard and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The song has a driving beat and inspiring lyrics that make it ideal for showcasing accomplishments, personal growth, and moments of triumph. Use this one for the closing slide or as a background track during the climax of the slideshow.

Wiz Khalifa - Work Hard Play Hard [Music Video]

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Best Songs for Family Slideshow

When it comes to creating a family slideshow, choosing the right music can make all the difference. The music not only sets the tone for the slideshow but it also helps to evoke emotions and memories from the viewers. If you’re struggling to find the perfect songs for your family slideshow, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best family songs that you can use for your family slideshow

11, Holiday Road by Lindsey Buckingham

This upbeat and energetic song is perfect for a family slideshow that features fun and adventurous moments. The catchy tune will keep the viewers engaged and entertained throughout the slideshow.

Lindsey Buckingham - Holiday Road (Official Music Video) [HD Remaster]

12. Just Another Day in Paradise by Phil Vassar

This song is ideal for a family slideshow that showcases everyday moments. It celebrates the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with loved ones and appreciating the beauty of nature.

Phil Vassar - Just Another Day In Paradise

13. What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

This classic song is a great choice for a family slideshow that highlights the beauty of the world around us. Its uplifting lyrics and soothing melody will remind viewers of all the good things in life.

Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

14. The House That Built Me by Miranda Lambert

This emotional song is perfect for a family slideshow that focuses on childhood memories and the importance of home. Its poignant lyrics and heartfelt melody are sure to tug at the heartstrings of viewers and some might even shed a tear.

The House That Built Me

15. Dear Mama by 2Pac

This iconic song is a tribute to mothers everywhere and is ideal for a family slide show that celebrates the love and sacrifices of moms. Its powerful lyrics and soulful melody will resonate with viewers of all ages.

16. Wouldn’t Mama Be Proud by Elliott Smith

Another tribute to mothers, this song is perfect for family slideshows that showcase the achievements and milestones of family members. Its gentle melody and touching lyrics will make viewers feel proud and inspired.

Wouldn't Mama Be Proud

17. Candle in the Wind by Elton John

This timeless song is a tribute to the late Princess Diana but can also be used in a family slideshow or tribute to honor loved ones who have passed away. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics will evoke feelings of loss and remembrance and might bring a tear or two to listeners.

Candle In The Wind (Remastered 2014)

18. I’m Alive by Celine Dion

This upbeat and empowering song is an ideal song to accompany a family slideshow that celebrates overcoming obstacles and persevering through difficult times. Its uplifting lyrics and energizing melody will inspire viewers to never give up.

Céline Dion - I'm Alive (Official HD Video)

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Best Songs for End of Year Slideshow

As the end of the school year approaches, it’s time to start planning the perfect slideshow to celebrate all the memories made over the past year. Set to music that captures the spirit of the year. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best songs for the end of the year slideshow. Each of these songs has a positive message that is perfect for celebrating the end of the school year and looking forward to what’s to come.

19. What I am” by Will.I.Am.

This upbeat and positive song celebrates individuality and encourages listeners to be true to themselves. Use it to inspire your students to embrace their unique qualities and talents, and to celebrate their differences.

20. On My Way by Phil Collins

This great song is all about the journey, and the excitement of setting out on a new adventure. Use it to capture the sense of excitement and anticipation that comes with the end of the school year, and to encourage your students to embrace new challenges and opportunities.

21. You’ve Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman

This timeless classic from the Toy Story soundtrack is a perfect reminder that we all need friends and support as we navigate life’s ups and downs. It is one of the best songs for your end of year slideshows. Use it to celebrate the friendships that have been formed over the course of the school year, and to encourage your students to continue to support and care for one another in the years to come.

You've Got a Friend in Me

22. Dream Big by Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband

This uplifting and motivational song encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and to never give up. Use it to inspire your students to set ambitious goals for themselves and to work hard to achieve them.

Ryan Shupe - Dream Big - Official New Music Video

23. Best Day of My Life by American Authors

This catchy and upbeat song celebrates the joy and excitement of living in the moment and making the most of every day. Use it to create a sense of positivity and celebration as your students look back on the past year and ahead to the future.

American Authors - Best Day Of My Life

24. A Million Dreams by The Greatest Showman

This beautiful and inspiring song from the hit movie The Greatest Showman is all about the power of imagination and the importance of dreaming big. Use it to encourage your students to think creatively and to believe in their own potential.

The Greatest Showman Cast - A Million Dreams (Official Audio)

25. My Wish by Rascal Flatts

This heartwarming song is all about wishing the best for those we care about. Use it to express your own hopes and wishes for your students as they move on to the next phase of their lives, and to encourage them to support and care for one another as they go.

26. Forever Young by Jay Z featuring Mr. Hudson

This classic song celebrates the joy and energy of youth, while also acknowledging the challenges and difficulties that come with growing up. Use it to capture the bittersweet feeling of the end of the school year, and to encourage your students to cherish their memories of the past while looking ahead to the future.

27. Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield

This empowering and uplifting song encourages listeners to embrace the unknown and to take risks in pursuit of their dreams. Use it to inspire your students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges and opportunities.

Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten (Official Video) (as featured in Anyone But You)

28. Here’s To Never Growing Up by Avril Lavigne

This fun and energetic song celebrates the joy and freedom of youth, and encourages listeners to hold onto that spirit of fun and adventure as they grow older. Use it to create a sense of celebration and excitement as your students look back on the past year and ahead to the future.

Avril Lavigne - Here's to Never Growing Up (Official Video)

29. Yesterday by The Beatles

This timeless classic from The Beatles is a perfect choice for a reflective and nostalgic end-of-year slideshow. Use it to evoke a sense of wistfulness and nostalgia as your students look back on the memories and experiences of the past year.

Yesterday (Remastered 2009)

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Best Upbeat Slideshow Songs

We all love a good slideshow – whether it’s for a family gathering, a work presentation, or just a fun way to show off your latest vacation photos. But sometimes, finding the perfect music to accompany your slideshow can be a challenge. Check out these songs if you are looking for something upbeat.

30. Celebration by Kool and the Gang

This classic party anthem is perfect for any slideshow that showcases a milestone event, such as a wedding, graduation, or retirement party. Use it to celebrate the happy times and get everyone in a festive mood.

Kool & The Gang - Celebration

31. I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas

Another great party song, I Gotta Feeling is perfect for a slideshow that captures the energy and excitement of a fun night out with friends. Use it to relive memories of a wild night or to get people pumped up for a future event.

The Black Eyed Peas - I Gotta Feeling (Official Music Video)

32. I Feel Good by James Brown

This funky classic is perfect for a slideshow that showcases personal achievements, such as a fitness journey, a professional accomplishment, or a personal triumph. Use it to celebrate your own success or to motivate others to reach their goals.

James Brown - I Feel Good

33. Happy by Pharrell Williams

It’s hard not to smile when you hear Happy – making it the perfect choice for a slideshow that showcases happy, carefree moments. Use it to highlight the joy and positivity in your life, or to remind others to find happiness in their own lives.

Pharrell Williams - Happy (Video)

34. We Are Family by Sister Sledge

This disco classic is perfect for a slideshow that celebrates the bonds of family and friendship. Use it to showcase family photos or to highlight a group of friends who have become like family.

We Are Family (2018 Remaster)

35. Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake

This catchy dance hit is perfect for a slideshow that showcases a fun, carefree spirit. Use it to highlight moments of pure joy and happiness, or to get people up and dancing.

Justin Timberlake - CAN'T STOP THE FEELING! (First Listen)

36. Home by Phillip Phillips

This uplifting song is perfect for a slideshow that showcases a sense of home and belonging. Use it to celebrate the place where you grew up, or to highlight a special place that holds a special meaning in your heart.

Phillip Phillips - Home

37. It’s a Great Day to Be Alive by Travis Tritt

This country classic is perfect for a slideshow that celebrates life’s simple pleasures. Use it to highlight the beauty of everyday moments or to remind yourself to appreciate the small things in life.

Travis Tritt - It's a Great Day to Be Alive (from Live & Kickin')

38. Count On Me by Bruno Mars

This sweet and sentimental song is perfect for a slideshow that celebrates friendship. Use it to showcase special moments with your best friends or to remind someone that you’ll always be there for them.

Bruno Mars - Count on Me (Official Lyric Video)

39. Remember When by Alan Jackson

This nostalgic ballad is perfect for a slideshow that showcases memories from years gone by. Use it to take a trip down memory lane and remember the good times from your past.

Alan Jackson - Remember When (Official HD Video)

40. Never Grow Up by Taylor Swift

This touching ballad is perfect for a slideshow that celebrates childhood memories. Use it to highlight photos of your kids or to reminisce about the good old days.

Other Upbeat Slideshow Songs

  • Holiday Road by Lindsay Buckingham (number 11 above)
    This upbeat tune from the National Lampoon’s Vacation soundtrack is perfect for a slideshow that showcases a road trip or vacation. Use it to relive memories of a fun adventure or to get excited for a future trip.
  • Just Another Day in Paradise by Phil Vassar (number 12 above)
    This upbeat country tune is perfect for a slideshow that showcases a fun day in the sun. Use it to highlight beach trips, pool days, or any other day where you just had a great time.

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Best Instrumental Music for Slideshow

If you’re looking for instrumental music for your slideshow, we’ve got you covered! Instrumental music can be a great choice for a wedding, a trip, or even just your daily life, as it provides soothing and relaxing background music that won’t detract from the images themselves. 

41. Canon in D Minor by Pachelbel

This classical piece by Johann Pachelbel is a timeless masterpiece that has been used in countless films and television shows. The gentle melody of the canon, combined with the emotional depth of the minor key, makes it an ideal choice for a slideshow that aims to touch the hearts of its viewers. It is perfect for wedding slideshows, memorial presentations, and any other occasion that requires a touch of elegance.

Canon in D (Pachelbel's Canon) - Cello & Piano [BEST WEDDING VERSION]

42. The Cradle by George Winston

“The Cradle” is a beautiful piano piece by George Winston that is sure to evoke a feeling of tranquility and calmness. This piece is particularly well suited to slideshows that focus on nature, landscapes, and scenic beauty. The gentle melody of the piano captures the essence of nature and creates a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for reflection and introspection.

George Winston - The Cradle from his solo piano album FOREST

43. Fur Elise by Beethoven

Beethoven’s Fur Elise is a familiar and beloved piece of classical music that is perfect for slideshows of all kinds. This piece has a playful and upbeat melody that can add a sense of joy and energy to your slideshow. It’s also a versatile piece that can be used to accompany a range of different photos and themes. Consider using this piece to accompany photos of children at play, or to add a sense of levity to your slideshow.

44. Suite No. 1 in G Major by Bach

Bach’s “Suite No. 1 in G major” is a beautiful and complex instrumental piece that is ideal for slideshows featuring more serious or contemplative subject matter. This piece is characterized by its intricate melodies and complex harmonies, which can add a sense of depth and complexity to your slideshow.

Yo-Yo Ma - Bach: Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, Prélude (Official Video)

45. Ride of the Valkyries by Wagner

Wagner’s Ride of the Valkries is a dramatic and powerful instrumental piece that is perfect for slideshows featuring action, drama, or adventure. This piece is characterized by its soaring melodies and intense harmonies, which can help to create a sense of excitement and intensity. Consider using this piece to accompany photos of extreme sports, travel adventures, or other exciting and adventurous subject matter.

Metropolitan Opera Orchestra – Wagner: Ride of the Valkyries - Ring (Official Video)

46. Gabriel’s Oboe from the Soundtrack to “The Mission”

Gabriel’s Oboe is an instrumental piece that is perfect for slideshows featuring a spiritual or religious theme. It’s a gentle and uplifting piece that can help to create a sense of peace and tranquility. Consider using this piece to accompany photos of religious ceremonies, natural landscapes, or other subject matter that require a sense of serenity and calm.

Yo-Yo Ma - Gabriel's Oboe | From the Soundtrack to "The Mission" by Yo-Yo Ma

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Best Sentimental Songs for Slideshows

Memories are some of the most precious things we have in life. They help us remember the good times we had and the people who are no longer with us. A sentimental slideshow is a beautiful way to relive these memories and to honor our loved ones. Adding a sentimental song to your slideshow can truly add a deeper sense of emotion and nostalgia.

47. Turn! Turn! Turn! by The Byrds

Turn! Turn! Turn! is a classic song that speaks to the cyclical nature of life. This song is perfect for a slideshow that shows the passage of time. Whether it’s a montage of a child growing up or a tribute to a loved one who has passed away, this song will add a poignant touch to your slideshow.

The Byrds - Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is A Season) (Audio)

48. Always on My Mind by Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson’s voice is instantly recognizable, and “Always on My Mind” is one of his most beloved songs. This song is perfect for a slideshow that focuses on a lost love or a loved one who has passed away. It’s a beautiful reminder that even though they may be gone, they will always be in our hearts.

Willie Nelson - Always On My Mind (Official Video)

49. I Will Remember You by Sarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan’s haunting voice is perfect for a sentimental slideshow. “I Will Remember You” is a beautiful song that speaks to the power of memories. It’s perfect for a slideshow that honors a loved one who has passed away or highlights a special moment in time.

sarah mclachlan - i will remember you

50. I’ll Be There by The Jackson 5

I’ll Be There is a classic song that speaks to the importance of being there for someone you love. This song is perfect for a slideshow that highlights the relationships we have with our loved ones. Whether it’s a tribute to a parent or a best friend, this song will add a beautiful touch to your slideshow.

51. My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

My Heart Will Go On is one of the most iconic love songs of all time. This song is perfect for a sentimental slideshow that focuses on love and romance. Whether it’s a tribute to a special relationship or a montage of wedding photos, this song will bring tears to everyone’s eyes.

Céline Dion - My Heart Will Go On (from the 2007 DVD "Live In Las Vegas - A New Day...")

52. Country Roads by John Denver

“Country Roads” is a classic song that speaks to the importance of home and family. This song is perfect for a slideshow that highlights the special moments we have with our loved ones. Whether it’s a family vacation, trip photos or a holiday gathering, this song will add a heartwarming touch to your slideshow.

John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads (Official Audio)

53. Teach Your Children Well by Crosby Stills, Nash and Young

Teach Your Children Well is a classic song that speaks to the importance of passing on wisdom to the next generation. This song is perfect for a slideshow that highlights the relationships between parents and children. Whether it’s a tribute to a parent or a montage of childhood photos, this song will add a beautiful touch to your slideshow.

Teach Your Children (2021 Remaster)

54. The Dance by Garth Brooks

“The Dance” is a beautiful song that speaks to the bittersweet nature of life. This song is perfect for a slideshow that highlights the beauty and fragility of life. Whether it’s a tribute to a loved one who has passed away or a montage of special moments, this song will add a poignant touch to your slideshow.

Garth Brooks - The Dance (With Lyrics)

55. Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper

Time after Time is a timeless classic that has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. The song is a beautiful ballad that speaks of love, loss, and the passage of time. Its haunting melody, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful vocals make it the perfect choice for a sentimental slideshow.

Cyndi Lauper - Time After Time (new cut)

Another Sentimental Song for Slideshows:

  • Yesterday by The Beatles (number 29 above)
    This song is perfect for a slideshow that focuses on memories of the past. It’s a beautiful reminder that even though things may change, the memories we hold dear will always be with us.

What Songs Will You Use in Your Slideshow?

colourful music notes

Choosing the best song for a slideshow can make all the difference in creating a memorable and inspiring presentation. With this list of inspirational songs for slideshows, you can find the perfect track to match your message and uplift your audience. Whether you’re creating a slideshow for a wedding, graduation, or any other special occasion, these songs will help you set the right tone and make a lasting impression. Remember to consider the lyrics, tempo, and emotional impact of each song before making your final choice. With a little bit of creativity and the right soundtrack, your slideshow is sure to be a hit.

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