11 Songs Like Happy by Pharrell Williams: Don’t Miss Them

Hey music lovers and fellow DJs, it’s TBone here, coming at you from Level Tunes! After spinning records and sharing beats for over 20 years in the music industry, I’ve seen firsthand how a great track can light up a room and lift spirits.

That’s why I’m thrilled to share with you my curated list of 11 songs that radiate the same infectious joy and positivity as Pharrell Williams’ iconic hit, “Happy.”

From my deep love for this genre, I’ve handpicked each song, aiming to bring a smile to your face and a bounce to your step.

Whether you’re behind the decks or just a music aficionado like me, these tracks are guaranteed to add a dose of happiness to your playlist. Let’s dive into the music that makes our hearts beat faster and reminds us of the good times!

Here are the songs like Happy by Pharrell Williams that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Happy by Pharrell Williams

Songs like Happy by Pharrell Williams in a list format:

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

From the album “Uptown Special” released in 2015 under RCA Records, “Uptown Funk” is a powerhouse of energy and fun. Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars created a track that feels like a celebration in every beat. What makes this song a standout for me is its ability to transport listeners straight to the dance floor, no matter where they are. The combination of Ronson’s production and Mars’ vocals, along with the song’s funky groove and catchy lyrics, captures the essence of what makes a song universally beloved. Its throwback vibe to the funk and soul of the ’70s and ’80s, blended with modern flair, is why it’s a perfect addition to this list.

“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

Released in 2016 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film “Trolls” and under RCA Records, Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” is pure auditory sunshine. Timberlake, known for his smooth vocals and catchy beats, delivers a song that’s all about feeling good and letting loose. The reason this song makes my list is its universal appeal—you can’t help but smile and move when you hear it. The upbeat melody, combined with Timberlake’s infectious enthusiasm, captures a sense of freedom and joy. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to lift their spirits.

“Get Lucky” by Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers

Off the 2013 album “Random Access Memories” and released by Columbia Records, “Get Lucky” is a modern disco anthem that brings together the electronic brilliance of Daft Punk, Pharrell’s smooth vocals, and Nile Rodgers’ legendary guitar riffs. The song’s groove is irresistible, embodying the joy of good music and great company. What draws me to “Get Lucky” is its timeless feel—it could easily belong to any era yet remains distinctly contemporary. The collaboration between these artists creates a track that’s both sophisticated and fun, making it an easy pick for anyone looking to capture the essence of a good time.

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams

No list would be complete without the song that inspired it all. Released in 2013 as part of the “Despicable Me 2” soundtrack and Pharrell’s own album “G I R L” in 2014, under Columbia Records, “Happy” is the epitome of feel-good music. Pharrell Williams crafted a song that feels like a warm, sunny day. What makes “Happy” so special is its simplicity—the message, the melody, and the rhythm come together in a way that feels both innovative and nostalgic. It’s a universal anthem of joy that encourages everyone to clap along and feel like “happiness is the truth.”

“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift took a bold step into pop with “Shake It Off,” a standout track from her 2014 album “1989,” released under Big Machine Records. This song is Swift’s anthem against haters and negativity, promoting a message of resilience and self-confidence. The reason “Shake It Off” makes this list is its catchy beat and empowering lyrics, encouraging listeners to dance away their worries. Swift’s transition into pop was marked by this track’s success, showcasing her versatility and knack for creating hits that resonate with a wide audience. It’s a song that makes you want to jump up and shake off anything that’s bringing you down.

“Valerie” by Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse

“Valerie” is a joyful, soulful track that appears on Mark Ronson’s 2007 album “Version,” released under Columbia Records. Featuring the incomparable vocals of Amy Winehouse, this song is a cover of The Zutons’ track but with a vibrant twist that only Ronson and Winehouse could achieve. The combination of Winehouse’s raw, emotive voice and Ronson’s lively production creates a track that’s both nostalgic and fresh. What I love about “Valerie” is its ability to blend different musical elements into a song that feels like a celebration of life and music. It’s a testament to Winehouse’s talent and Ronson’s vision, making it a timeless addition to any playlist.

“Sugar” by Maroon 5

From their 2014 album “V,” released under Interscope Records, Maroon 5’s “Sugar” is as sweet as the title suggests. This song stands out for its catchy hooks and Adam Levine’s distinctive vocals, set against a backdrop of upbeat, funky instrumentals. “Sugar” captures the essence

of a spontaneous celebration, much like the music video’s concept of crashing weddings to perform live. What draws me to “Sugar” is its infectious energy and the way it seamlessly blends pop with elements of funk and disco. It’s a song that feels like a burst of happiness, encouraging listeners to embrace the sweetness in life and love. Maroon 5 has a knack for crafting hits that stay with you, and “Sugar” is no exception, making it a perfect candidate for this list of uplifting songs.

“Feel So Close” by Calvin Harris

Released in 2012 from the album “18 Months” under Columbia Records, “Feel So Close” showcases Calvin Harris’s ability to create an electronic track that feels intimate and anthemic at the same time. The song stands out for its emotive lyrics and Harris’s vocal performance, paired with a danceable beat that’s become a signature of his work. What I appreciate about “Feel So Close” is its blend of electronic music with a sense of human connection, making it a unique entry in the dance music genre. It’s a track that brings people together, encapsulating the feeling of being united through music, which is why it’s a must-have on any list celebrating joy and togetherness.

“Good Life” by OneRepublic

From their 2009 album “Waking Up,” released under Interscope Records, OneRepublic’s “Good Life” is an ode to finding beauty in every moment. This song captures the essence of gratitude and the wonders of life’s journey with its uplifting lyrics and melodious tune. What makes “Good Life” resonate with me is its ability to convey a message of hope and positivity, wrapped in a sound that’s both refreshing and comforting. Ryan Tedder’s vocals and the band’s instrumentation create a sonic experience that’s both grounding and elevating. It’s a reminder of the good times and an invitation to celebrate the present, making it a natural choice for this playlist.

“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

This hit from American Authors, featured on their 2014 album “Oh, What a Life,” released under Island Records, is an anthem of optimism and joy. “Best Day of My Life” combines indie rock energy with catchy pop elements, creating a track that’s both inspiring and infectious. The reason this song makes the list is its spirited melody and the band’s enthusiastic performance, which instantly brightens your mood. It’s a song about embracing life’s highs and recognizing the beauty in every day, making it a perfect addition to any collection of feel-good music.

“Rather Be” by Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne

Released in 2014 from the album “New Eyes” under Atlantic Records, “Rather Be” by Clean Bandit featuring Jess Glynne is a fusion of classical strings with electronic beats, creating a unique and unforgettable sound. The song’s message about being content and happy in the company of a loved one resonates deeply, enhanced by Glynne’s powerful vocals. What attracts me to “Rather Be” is its innovative sound and the way it combines different genres to create something truly uplifting. It’s a musical testament to the joy of companionship and the beauty of finding where you belong. This track’s ability to make listeners feel loved and connected is why it’s an essential part of this list.

“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves

A classic hit from 1985, “Walking on Sunshine” is featured on the album of the same name and was released under Capitol Records. This song by Katrina and The Waves is the epitome of feel-good music, with its energetic guitar riffs, vibrant horns, and Katrina Leskanich’s dynamic vocals. The reason “Walking on Sunshine” is a must-have on this list is its timeless appeal and the instant boost of happiness it provides. It’s a song that embodies the carefree joy of a sunny day, making it impossible not to dance along. The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to spread positivity and good vibes, making it a perfect closer for our exploration of songs like “Happy” by Pharrell Williams.

Fun Facts: Songs Like Happy by Pharrell Williams

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

• Record-Breaking Collaborations: “Uptown Funk” spent 14 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, tying it for the second-longest leading number one single at the time. The collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars was a hit worldwide, showcasing the magic that happens when two powerhouse musicians team up.

“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

• Animation Inspiration: Justin Timberlake created “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” for the animated movie “Trolls,” where he not only contributed to the soundtrack but also voiced the character Branch. The song’s widespread success led it to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

“Get Lucky” by Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers

• A Star-Studded Trio: “Get Lucky” was a global phenomenon, in part due to the star power of its collaborators. Nile Rodgers’ legendary guitar riff and Pharrell Williams’ vocals, combined with Daft Punk’s production, resulted in a Grammy Award for Record of the Year. The song marked a significant return for Daft Punk, showcasing their evolution while staying true to their roots.

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams

• 24-Hour Music Video: Pharrell Williams released the world’s first 24-hour music video for “Happy,” which features a plethora of people dancing around Los Angeles. The video was innovative for its time and allowed viewers to click through different times of the day to see a variety of dancers, including celebrities, all moving to the song’s infectious beat.

“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

• A Genre Shift: “Shake It Off” marked Taylor Swift’s official shift from country to pop music. The song, and its accompanying album “1989,” received critical acclaim and commercial success, symbolizing Swift’s versatility as an artist and her ability to dominate across music genres.

“Valerie” by Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse

• Tribute to a Classic: Although originally performed by The Zutons, Amy Winehouse’s version of “Valerie” with Mark Ronson became significantly more popular, turning it into a modern classic. The track showcased Winehouse’s unique vocal talent and her ability to infuse soul into any song she touched.

“Sugar” by Maroon 5

• Wedding Crasher Video: The music video for “Sugar” was inspired by the movie “Wedding Crashers” and features Maroon 5 crashing real-life weddings across Los Angeles to perform the song. While the spontaneity of the crashes was staged, the reactions from the brides, grooms, and guests were genuine, capturing the joy and surprise of the moment.

“Feel So Close” by Calvin Harris

• Harris Steps Up to the Mic: Unlike many of his other tracks where he features guest vocalists, Calvin Harris chose to provide the vocals for “Feel So Close” himself. This song showcases his versatility not just as a DJ and producer but also as a singer, adding a personal touch to the track.

“Good Life” by OneRepublic

• Worldwide Inspiration: “Good Life” was inspired by Ryan Tedder’s worldwide travels and experiences. The song reflects on the beauty and diversity of life around the globe, aiming to capture the essence of what it means to live fully and gratefully.

“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

• Indie to Anthem: “Best Day of My Life” was a breakthrough hit for American Authors, a band that went from indie status to international recognition almost overnight. The song has been used in various commercials, movies, and trailers, showcasing its universal appeal as an anthem of optimism.

“Rather Be” by Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne

• A Groundbreaking Sound: “Rather Be” was praised for its fusion of classical music elements with electronic beats, a signature of Clean Bandit’s sound. The song not only dominated the charts but also won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording, highlighting the group’s innovative approach to music production.

“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves

• An Evergreen Hit: Despite being released in the 1980s, “Walking on Sunshine” remains an evergreen hit, often featured in movies and commercials to convey happiness and positivity. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the universal joy it brings to listeners.

Diving into these tracks, we’ve explored the vibrant landscapes of feel-good music. From timeless classics to modern anthems, each song carries a spark of joy, proving music’s power to uplift and unite. Let these tunes be your guide to brighter days and endless dance floors.

Thanks for reading.

TBone