Throughout the years of being a music junkie, I have stumbled upon a number of songs that encourage women empowerment and self-determination. It’s so refreshing to hear music with lyrics that question societal norms and stereotypical gender roles. So to my ladies who are the independent, don’t-need-no-one-but-themselves-to-be-happy type, this list of seven songs that advocate women liberation is dedicated to you

. Hopefully this compilation, which is not in any particular order or exclusivity, will get you through each day of the week and remind you of how amazing you truly are.

1. Christina Aguilera ft. Lil' Kim: Can't Hold Us Down

 

“So what am I not supposed to have an opinion
Should I be quiet just because I'm a woman
Call me a b**ch cos I speak what's on my mind
Guess it's easier for you to swallow if I sat and smiled"

This is such a fierce, unapologetic song that challenges double-standards. It protests that heavy presence of sexism within society and points out the hypocrisy in slut-shaming. Absolutely love it. I can’t help but sing along (albeit very off-tune) any time this song plays.

2. Sara Bareilles: Fairytale

“Sleeping Beauty's in a foul mood for shame she says
None for you dear prince, I'm tired today.
I'd rather sleep my whole life away than have you keep me from dreaming”

I adore fairy tales and the connection they have to my childhood, but I can’t deny the sexist themes that underlie so many of these stories. You don't need a "Prince Charming" to get your happy ending, hon. This song showcases the reality of such fairy tales, and what would happen if these bedtime stories took place in the real world.

3. Destiny's Child: Independent Women

"Tell me how you feel about this
Who would I want if I would wanna live
I worked hard and sacrificed to get what I get
Ladies, it ain't easy bein' independent"

This song is a shout out to all the independent women who are working and making their own money regardless of the hurdles, *ahem* glass ceiling *ahem*, in their path. Much love to you ladies. Continue slayin’ and doing your thing!

4. Fifth Harmony: Boss

"You say that you a baller
And I see you tryna holla
But that ain't how I was brought up
Next
Working for my money
'Cause that's what my momma taught me
So yo ass betta show me some respect"

Yasss! This song shuts down those people who think women need men to be successful. Please. And it totally slams the act of cat-calling. I mean, have you ever heard of a love story that began, “He shouted obscenities at her on the street. Fast forward five years, and now they are happily married.” Didn't think so. Next.

5. Alicia Keys: Girl On Fire

Looks like a girl, but she's a flame
So bright, she can burn your eyes
Better look the other way
You can try but you'll never forget her name

This song is definitely fire (literally). I love its powerful lyrics about women's strengths, capabilities and vigor, among other attributes #RealLifeGoals

6. Natasha Bedingfield: Single

"I'm not waitin' around for a man to save me
(Cos I'm happy where I am)
Don't depend on a guy to validate me
(No no)
I don't need to be anyone's baby
(Is that so hard to understand?)
No I don't need another half to make me whole"

This for my single girls who are tired of people making them feel bad for not being in a long-term, committed relationship. It's okay to be on your own and love yourself. You keep doing you, boo, as long as you're happy.

7. Beyoncé: Run The World (Girls)

"Some of them men think they freak this like we do
But no they don't
Make your cheque come at they neck
Disrespect us no they won't"

Last, but definitely not least. Queen Bey is bae and she kills the whole independence thing, so I had to obviously include this song. "Who Run the World" is just perfection when it comes to empowering women. Without a doubt, this is my current favorite anthem.

And as I near the end of my list, so many more song choices come to mind, some of which include Lily Allen's "Hard Out There" and The Pussycat Dolls' "I Don't Need a Man." Let me know your favorite women empowerment songs, and, in the meantime, keep on working it and struttin'.