7 Songs Like Pursuit of Happiness: Resonating Tracks

Hey folks, it’s TBone here! As your resident DJ and music enthusiast, I’ve been swaying to tunes that bring out that unmistakable vibe – think “Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi. Such gems are uplifting, introspective and they have a way of vibrating through your soul.

I’ve decided to delve deep into my vast musical library and pick out seven songs that echo the same kind of energy and joy.

This list isn’t just about melodies that move us, it’s about songs that make us question, inspire us and push us to chase our dreams, just like “Pursuit of Happiness”. Let’s groove together!

Here are the songs like Pursuit of Happiness that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Pursuit of Happiness

1. “Day ‘N’ Nite” by Kid Cudi

Hailing from Kid Cudi’s debut studio album, “Man on the Moon: The End of Day” (2009), under the label of GOOD Music and Universal Motown, “Day ‘N’ Nite” is a gem that vibrates in the same frequency as “Pursuit of Happiness”. This tune, co-written with Dot da Genius, is Cudi’s exploration of his solitary life, where he paints a picture of loneliness and internal struggle, yet maintains an undertone of hope. It’s the raw authenticity and Cudi’s hypnotic rhythms that draw me to this song. The minimalist production, centered around Cudi’s humming and a catchy beat, delivers an atmospheric soundscape, bridging hip-hop and electronic music in a unique way.

2. “Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar

Released under Top Dawg, Aftermath, and Interscope Records in 2012, “Swimming Pools (Drank)” comes from Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed album, “good kid, m.A.A.d city”. The track, produced by T-Minus, features Kendrick grappling with the theme of alcoholism, influenced by his experiences growing up. The introspective lyrics coupled with the infectious, bass-heavy beat create a dynamic contrast that’s hard to ignore. Like “Pursuit of Happiness”, this song balances introspection with a catchy vibe, making you think and dance simultaneously.

3. “Stronger” by Kanye West

“Stronger” from Kanye West’s 2007 album “Graduation”, released by Roc-A-Fella and Def Jam Recordings, is a track that resonates with the vibe of “Pursuit of Happiness”. Built around a sample from Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger”, Kanye turns the melody into an anthem of resilience and self-empowerment. Its futuristic production and lyrics about overcoming obstacles parallel the introspective yet optimistic tone of “Pursuit of Happiness”. Additionally, Daft Punk’s contribution gives it an appealing electronic edge, further enhancing the song’s resonance.

4. “Airplanes” by B.o.B featuring Hayley Williams

“Airplanes”, featured on B.o.B’s 2010 album “B.o.B Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray”, released by Grand Hustle and Atlantic, is a track that shares a similar spirit with “Pursuit of Happiness”. Hayley Williams of Paramore lends her powerful vocals to the hook, while B.o.B delivers verses about dreams and the cost of fame. The pop-rap fusion, combined with introspective lyrics and soaring chorus, reminds me of the vibe of self-exploration and dream-chasing that’s central to “Pursuit of Happiness”.

5. “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots

From the 2015 album “Blurryface”, released by Fueled by Ramen, “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots is a heartfelt song that straddles the line between melancholy and aspiration, much like “Pursuit of Happiness”. The duo, Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun, express the anxieties of growing up, longing for simpler times, and the pressures of adult expectations. This blend of rap and pop rock, with its introspective lyrics and infectious melody, evokes a vibe similar to that of “Pursuit of Happiness”.

6. “1-800-273-8255” by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid

This track, named after the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, comes from Logic’s 2017 album “Everybody”, released by Def Jam Recordings. Featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid, the song is a heartfelt plea for mental health awareness. While tackling a serious issue, it carries a hopeful message that resonates with the tone of overcoming struggles in “Pursuit of Happiness”. Its sincere and vulnerable lyrics coupled with a soothing beat make this song an emotional journey.

7. “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis featuring Ray Dalton

This upbeat anthem from Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’s 2012 album “The Heist”, released independently, is the kind of energetic, motivational song that shares a vibe with “Pursuit of Happiness”. Ray Dalton’s powerful chorus and Macklemore’s infectious raps about dreams and determination create a catchy tune that’s impossible to ignore. It embodies a similar theme of aspiration and breaking through barriers, making it a fitting close to this list.

Fun Facts: Tracks Like Pursuit of Happiness

“Day ‘N’ Nite” by Kid Cudi

Fun Fact: “Day ‘N’ Nite” marked Kid Cudi’s breakout into the music scene, but did you know that it was initially released in his 2008 mixtape “A Kid Named Cudi” before making its way onto his debut album? This track also led Cudi to be recognized by Kanye West, sparking a partnership that has resulted in some of the most iconic collaborations in modern hip-hop.

“Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar

Fun Fact: Although “Swimming Pools (Drank)” is often misconstrued as a party anthem due to its catchy chorus, Kendrick Lamar has explained that it’s actually a commentary on the dangerous drinking culture he was surrounded by growing up. This twist makes the song even more thought-provoking.

“Stronger” by Kanye West

Fun Fact: Kanye West’s “Stronger” required a lot of work – it was reportedly mixed 75 times before Kanye was satisfied. Kanye’s perfectionist tendencies certainly paid off as the song went on to top charts around the world, and it is now recognized as one of his signature songs.

“Airplanes” by B.o.B featuring Hayley Williams

Fun Fact: Did you know that Eminem was originally intended to be on the “Airplanes” track instead of B.o.B? However, things didn’t work out initially and B.o.B ended up recording it. Later, Eminem featured in the song’s sequel, “Airplanes, Part II”, creating one of the most unexpected and memorable collaborations in the industry.

“Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots

Fun Fact: Twenty One Pilots is known for their unique sound and “Stressed Out” is no exception. The track features the sound of an actual handshake between band members Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun. It’s a testament to their creativity and attention to detail.

“1-800-273-8255” by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid

Fun Fact: Following the release of this track, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline reported that it received the second-highest daily call volume in its history, demonstrating the real-world impact of music. Logic has expressed how proud he is for using his platform to spread awareness about mental health.

“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis featuring Ray Dalton

Fun Fact: “Can’t Hold Us” was originally released on SoundCloud in 2011 as a single. When it didn’t gain much traction, the duo re-released it in 2012 as part of their album “The Heist”, and it quickly gained popularity, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

That’s it, music lovers! This musical journey we’ve been on showcases tracks vibrating on the same frequency as “Pursuit of Happiness”.

Dive into them, feel the energy, and let’s continue this pursuit together. Until next time, this is TBone, signing off. Stay groovy, folks!

Thanks for reading.

TBone