27 Best Alarm Songs for Heavy Sleepers You Can’t Miss
Hey party people, it’s TBone from Level Tunes! 🎧 As a DJ and a massive music junkie, I’m constantly surrounded by tunes that get my heart pumping and feet tapping.
But here’s a fun fact: I’m also a heavy sleeper. I can’t count the number of times I’ve almost missed gigs or early morning vinyl hunts because my alarm just didn’t cut it.
So, I thought, why not combine my love for thumping beats with the necessity to wake up?
Here’s a list I’ve curated of the 27 best alarm songs guaranteed to drag even the heaviest sleepers out of dreamland.
Here are the best alarm songs for heavy sleepers that you can check out:
List Of Best Alarm Songs for Heavy Sleepers
Best alarm songs for heavy sleepers in a list format:
1. Eye of the Tiger by Survivor
Album: Eye of the Tiger (1982), Label: Scotti Brothers
This is the kind of song that makes you feel like you’re in an ’80s movie montage. Written by Frankie Sullivan and Jim Peterik, this rock classic is bound to send adrenaline pumping through your veins. The moment you hear those iconic guitar riffs and punchy vocals, you’ll be up and running like Rocky Balboa. Besides Survivor, the song also features the musical talents of Frankie Sullivan on guitar and Dave Bickler on vocals. If this doesn’t get you up, I don’t know what will!
2. Wake Me Up by Avicii
Album: True (2013), Label: PRMD Music and Island
Tim Bergling, better known as Avicii, took the world by storm with this track. Fusing electronic music with folk elements was genius. The energetic beats coupled with Aloe Blacc’s powerful voice are the morning shakeup you didn’t know you needed. Additionally, musicians like Mike Einziger from Incubus added their magic to the mix. It’s called “Wake Me Up” for a reason, right?
3. Happy by Pharrell Williams
Album: G I R L (2014), Label: Columbia and Back Lot
Nothing says “Good Morning!” quite like the chirpy vibes of “Happy”. Produced and performed by Pharrell Williams, this song became a global sensation. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make for the perfect wake-up anthem. Imagine starting every day feeling like a “room without a roof”. Now, that’s how you set a positive tone!
4. Can’t Stop by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Album: By the Way (2002), Label: Warner Bros.
Driven by Flea’s infectious bass lines and Anthony Kiedis’ distinctive vocals, “Can’t Stop” is a burst of energy. It encapsulates the Chili Peppers’ signature style: a mix of funk, rock, and a dose of Californian sun. Waking up to this means starting your day on a high, probably air-guitaring your way to the bathroom.
5. One More Time by Daft Punk
Album: Discovery (2001), Label: Virgin
This track is pure electricity. It’s impossible not to move when “One More Time” plays. The French duo, Daft Punk, known for their groundbreaking electronic beats, delivers a powerful auditory jolt with this one. It’s not just a wake-up song; it’s a dance party in your bedroom every morning.
6. Viva La Vida by Coldplay
Album: Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends (2008), Label: Parlophone
Chris Martin’s unique voice paired with a pulsating rhythm makes “Viva La Vida” a sensational track to start your day. It’s grand, it’s majestic, and it’s deeply moving. With lyrics that paint vivid pictures and a melody that’s both hopeful and nostalgic, waking up to this is a reminder of life’s beauty.
7. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Album: Uptown Special (2015), Label: RCA
Put on your shades and feel the funk! This modern classic, thanks to the combined genius of Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars, ensures that you not only wake up but wake up with swagger. The funky beats, catchy lines, and overall energetic tempo is an audio espresso shot!
8. Stronger by Kanye West
Album: Graduation (2007), Label: Roc-A-Fella
Sampling Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,” Kanye created an anthem of resilience and power. If you’re the kind of person who needs a motivational push in the morning, this song’s assertive beats and lyrics will make sure you start your day feeling unstoppable.
9. Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine
Album: Lungs (2008), Label: Island
Florence Welch’s ethereal voice combined with the track’s pounding drums ensures you rise with energy and inspiration. The song itself is a celebration of happiness and freedom, and what better way to embrace the morning?
10. Thunderstruck by AC/DC
Album: The Razors Edge (1990), Label: ATCO
A classic rock staple, “Thunderstruck” with its iconic guitar intro by Angus Young, is a high-voltage way to kickstart the morning. AC/DC’s powerful rhythm and Brian Johnson’s screeching vocals will make sure you’re not just awake, but ready to rock the day ahead.
11. Jump by Van Halen
Album: 1984 (1984), Label: Warner Bros.
David Lee Roth’s iconic voice, combined with Eddie Van Halen’s legendary synth and guitar work, makes “Jump” an energetic kick to your morning routine. The song is all about taking leaps and risks, making it a perfect anthem to motivate you out of bed.
12. Levels by Avicii
Album: The Singles (2011), Label: Universal
Another gem from Avicii, “Levels” is synonymous with feel-good, vibrant energy. It embodies the spirit of seizing the day, and its infectious beats are bound to elevate your morning mood. Etta James’s sampled vocals provide a soulful touch to this electronic masterpiece.
13. Dancing Queen by ABBA
Album: Arrival (1976), Label: Polar
This timeless track from ABBA will make you twirl in your pajamas! With its catchy chorus and unmistakable melody, “Dancing Queen” is all about celebrating youth and joy. Imagine starting your day feeling like the dancing queen or king of your own life!
14. Good as Hell by Lizzo
Album: Coconut Oil (2016), Label: Atlantic
Queen Lizzo serves up a dose of self-love and empowerment with “Good as Hell”. The song’s lively beats, combined with its uplifting lyrics, make for a perfect morning pep-talk. The brass section adds an extra layer of pizzazz to kick off your day with confidence.
15. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons
Album: Night Visions (2012), Label: Interscope, KIDinaKORNER
With a blend of indie rock and folk influences, this track by Imagine Dragons is both whimsical and motivating. It’s a song that captures the essence of conquering challenges, making it an ideal morning motivator. Waking up to this track, you’ll undoubtedly feel ready to take on the world!
16. Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles
Album: Abbey Road (1969), Label: Apple
This Beatles classic is the quintessential morning song. George Harrison’s gentle vocals, combined with the song’s calming melody, makes it feel like the sun is indeed rising in your room. It’s a serene way to wake up, filled with hope and positivity.
17. Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves
Album: Katrina and the Waves (1985), Label: Capitol
An undying radio favorite, “Walking on Sunshine” is a burst of pure joy. Its upbeat rhythm, combined with Katrina Leskanich’s exuberant vocals, brings an instant smile. This track is a sure-fire way to start your day on a buoyant note!
18. Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
Album: 1989 (2014), Label: Big Machine
T-Swift’s pop anthem is not just catchy; it’s the audio equivalent of shaking off sleep and lethargy. With its contagious beats and lively lyrics about brushing off the haters, this track is a morning boost of positivity and resilience. Swift’s vocals, combined with a lively brass section, ensure you wake up feeling invincible.
19. Best Day of My Life by American Authors
Album: Oh, What a Life (2014), Label: Island
This feel-good track, replete with buoyant banjo strums and a shout-along chorus, embodies pure optimism. American Authors serve up a dose of sunny vibes that make you want to seize the day. If you want to wake up feeling like anything is possible, this is your jam.
20. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
Album: Escape (1981), Label: Columbia
Starting your day with this rock classic is like being propelled into an epic journey of its own. Steve Perry’s compelling vocals, paired with Neal Schon’s iconic guitar licks, bring an anthemic quality. It’s a timeless reminder to hold on to that morning feeling and believe in the day ahead.
21. Wake Up by Arcade Fire
Album: Funeral (2004), Label: Merge, Rough Trade
Quite literally titled “Wake Up,” this track from Arcade Fire begins with a chorus of powerful voices, blending into an indie rock masterpiece. The combination of heavy guitars, punchy drums, and anthemic vocals makes it an exhilarating morning pick-me-up.
22. Budapest by George Ezra
Album: Wanted on Voyage (2014), Label: Columbia
George Ezra’s deep, soulful voice paired with the playful guitar strumming in “Budapest” offers a relaxed yet energizing morning vibe. The song exudes wanderlust and free spirit, making every morning feel like the beginning of a new adventure.
23. Safe and Sound by Capital Cities
Album: In a Tidal Wave of Mystery (2013), Label: Capitol
The electro-pop duo, Capital Cities, brings a burst of neon energy with this track. Trumpet solos and a catchy chorus create an upbeat atmosphere. Waking up to “Safe and Sound” ensures a vibrant start, making you feel both energized and comforted.
24. Roar by Katy Perry
Album: Prism (2013), Label: Capitol
Katy Perry’s empowering anthem is all about finding your voice and strength. Its booming beats, combined with lyrics of resilience, make “Roar” an ideal track to face the day with determination and spirit.
25. Feeling Good by Nina Simone
Album: I Put a Spell on You (1965), Label: Philips
The sultry, jazzy vocals of Nina Simone paired with powerful brass instruments make “Feeling Good” a timeless wake-up call. It’s a song about new beginnings and embracing the day. When Nina sings “It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day,” you’ll be inspired to start fresh every morning.
26. Clocks by Coldplay
Album: A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002), Label: Parlophone and Capitol
The signature piano riff, combined with Chris Martin’s ethereal voice, creates an urgency and momentum that’s perfect for shaking off morning sluggishness. The rhythmic beats and melodic flow of “Clocks” will ensure you’re not just awake, but also ready to embrace the rhythm of the day ahead.
27. Beautiful Day by U2
Album: All That You Can’t Leave Behind (2000), Label: Island and Interscope
Bono’s powerful vocals, The Edge’s shimmering guitar sounds, and the song’s uplifting lyrics make “Beautiful Day” a perfect track to conclude our list. It’s an anthem that celebrates life’s beauty, encouraging you to not let any moment escape. Waking up to this song is a reminder that every day holds potential and beauty.
Fun Facts: Best Alarm Songs for Heavy Sleepers
One More Time by Daft Punk
- Fact: Daft Punk sampled the song “More Spell on You” by Eddie Johns for the main melody of “One More Time”. However, the song was heavily modified and looped to create the final track we all love.
Viva La Vida by Coldplay
- Fact: The song’s title means “Live the Life” in Spanish. Interestingly, it was inspired by a painting of the same name by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- Fact: The track took a whopping seven months to write, with input from multiple writers. It also went on to win two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year.
Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine
- Fact: Florence Welch wrote the song after being inspired by a large side-of-the-road artwork she saw while hungover on her way to a friend’s house. It reminded her of the phrase “Dog Days”, which refers to the hottest days of summer.
Thunderstruck by AC/DC
- Fact: The song’s iconic opening is a result of guitarist Angus Young experimenting with tapping techniques on his guitar. It’s become one of the most instantly recognizable intros in rock history.
Jump by Van Halen
- Fact: While known for their guitar-heavy tracks, “Jump” was Van Halen’s foray into synthesizers. Eddie Van Halen said that he had the keyboard riff stored away for years, but his previous attempts to use it in a song had been rejected by the rest of the band.
Levels by Avicii
- Fact: The iconic vocal sample in “Levels” is taken from Etta James’s song “Something’s Got a Hold on Me”. Avicii’s knack for blending soulful classics with modern beats turned this into an EDM anthem.
Dancing Queen by ABBA
- Fact: “Dancing Queen” is the only ABBA song to hit #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. The group performed it for the first time at a televised gala in honor of the Swedish king and queen the night before their wedding.
Wake Up by Arcade Fire
- Fact: This track became so popular that even the NFL and the movie “Where the Wild Things Are” used it for promotional purposes. The band performed the song with David Bowie at the 2005 Fashion Rocks concert, marking it as one of the most iconic performances.
From iconic beats to inspiring lyrics, our journey through these morning anthems has been a testament to the power of music. Whether you’re a heavy sleeper or just in need of a new playlist, let these tunes guide your sunrise. Keep grooving and always rise on a high note!
Thanks for reading.
TBone