I’ve had the privilege of receiving some truly profound advice over the years, thanks to a variety of wonderful individuals. The hitch? My memory tends to go on vacation before noon! That’s why I turn to the lyrical gems of pop music for guidance—they’re concise, catchy, and oh-so-easy to remember. Here are seven unforgettable lessons that still resonate with me today, just like they did when I first jammed to them in my younger days.
1. “Closing Time,” Semisonic
“One last call for alcohol so finish your whiskey or beer. … You don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here.”
Back in the day, these lyrics served as my wake-up call when the lights flickered on at my favorite bar. Now, I see them as a gentle reminder to leave a party while it’s still at its peak—timing is everything!
2. “Fight for Your Right,” Beastie Boys
Key lyric: See song title above, and add “to paaaaaaaaarty!”
What once sounded like the anthem of curfew-bound teens has transformed into my personal battle cry for cozy nights in with my favorite shows (hello, Netflix!).
3. “The Climb,” No Doubt
“Pulling myself up by a rope, I better my view. The only thing in sight is what I must do.”
This ska-pop treasure offers sage advice for anyone feeling lost in their career journey. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I remember to take a step back and focus on that next actionable step.
4. “Wannabe,” Spice Girls
“If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends, and you have got to give.”
A timeless reminder that true relationships involve blending lives and showing a bit of generosity. Fun fact: this song was definitely penned by the elusive sixth Spice Girl, Wise Spice.
5. “Everybody’s Free (to Wear Sunscreen),” Baz Luhrmann
“The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proven by scientists. … Do one thing every day that scares you. … Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts.”
Mary Schmich’s wise words in this spoken-word piece are spot on—especially the sunscreen part!
6. “Express Yourself,” Madonna
“You deserve the best in life, so if the time isn’t right then move on.”
One of those hard-hitting lessons I keep having to relearn: life’s hiccups—be it relationships or career choices—aren’t a reflection of anyone’s worth; sometimes, it’s just bad timing.
7. “Tubthumping,” Chumbawamba
“I get knocked down, but I get up again. You’re never gonna keep me down.”
This lyric may not encompass all wisdom, but it definitely deserves a spot on your grandma’s needlepoint! It’s a reminder to keep pushing through life’s challenges.
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In summary, the music of the ’80s and ’90s has gifted us with memorable life lessons that are just as relevant today as they were back then. From embracing timing in relationships to knowing when to leave a party, these lyrics continue to resonate in our everyday lives.