The Happiness Function

What song would be our salvation if aliens came down to Earth from another planet? That is the question that many are pondering on a popular forum. There are several to consider, and music taste is subjective. But here are some songs that could captivate visitors from another planet.

1. “Bohemian Rhapsody”- Queen

Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is unlike anything else. As one user says, it’s “Classic and Timeless.” Another explains why it is an excellent choice: “It’s got everything – opera, rock, a killer guitar solo, and lyrics that make no sense but are still somehow deeply moving.”

2. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley

Thanks to the internet, Rick Astley’s 1987 jam is a funny meme. And I agree, as numerous others do, that it would be a riot to “Rickroll” the aliens. But in earnest, the song is an uplifting bop you can dance to.

3. “Over the Rainbow”- Judy Garland

You could choose any version of the classic and wishful tune from The Wizard of Oz, such as the Israel Kamakawiwoʻole and Harry Nilsson covers, which are both gorgeous. But there’s something so lovely about Judy Garland’s original that can enchant all ages. Can’t you imagine aliens crying over this song? What a sight that’d be!

4. “Africa”- Toto

Toto’s “Africa” is a song with multigenerational appeal. Whether it’s the lyrics, vocals, or instrumentation, there’s a transcendent quality to it. It makes an imprint. One fan asserts, “They’ll be humming that six planets later…They could even change the lyrics to be with their planet.”

5. “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”- The Charlie Daniels Band

One individual states, “I can’t explain it, but this is a perfect answer.” And it’s true. It’s a unique and one-of-a-kind song with incredible fiddle playing and lyrics that tell an entire riveting story.

6. “What A Wonderful World”- Louis Armstrong

The lyrics to “What A Wonderful World” are poignant and life-affirming, reminding us of the beauty around us. Combine that with Louis Armstrong’s remarkable and distinctive voice, and you get a song that would showcase to the alien visitors how exceptional our world is.

7. “Take Me Home, Country Roads”- John Denver

You can hear John Denver’s gorgeous and impressive voice in this song which features beautiful lyrics that celebrate the wonderful parts of America. It’s heartfelt and has the power to move anyone emotionally. The unique mash-up with “I Will Always Love You” features multiple country artists such as Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, and Tim McGraw is another excellent option.

8. “Clair de Lune”- Claude Debussy

Peaceful, lovely, and hypnotic, Debussy’s classical masterpiece is more than just a song from the end of Ocean’s 11. It can lull you into a state of euphoria.

9. “Louie Louie”- The Kingsman

It may seem like an odd choice despite it being a fun rock song. Why “Louie Louie” is an excellent choice involves strategy and self-preservation. No one ever seems to understand this one, so, as someone suggests, “By the time they figure out those lyrics, we’re all hiding in a different dimension.”

10. “Moon River”- Henry Mancini

The theme song from Breakfast at Tiffany’s has an unforgettable melody and gorgeous instrumentation. The lyrics are some of the loveliest and sweetest ever written. This song makes us dream of a “huckleberry friend” to walk through life with. Listen to Audrey Hepburn, Andy Williams, or Jane Monheit’s renditions.

11. “Don’t Stop Believin'”- Journey

Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” is another song with multigenerational appeal. The classic rock anthem is positive and inspiring and builds as the song progresses. I bet even hostile aliens would be jamming to this tune by the end.

12. “Mr. Blue Sky”- Electric Light Orchestra

An astute music fan proclaims, “I just feel like since it’s scientifically the “happiest” song, it could work in our favor.” I concur with this idea. If the goal is to save our planet, it’s an excellent notion to pick the upbeat and sunny “Mr. Blue Sky.”

13. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”- Tears For Fears

Playing this song would be highly relevant to aliens coming to Earth with possible hopes of domination. One person amusingly believes that “they’ll dig the irony.” I, for one, love the song’s quality and appreciate the context.

14. “Yesterday”- The Beatles

A Beatles fan thinks, “This surely has to be our most beautiful offering.” I agree with them. The lyrics are more sad and melancholy than happy and inspiring. But The Beatles are a must, and “Yesterday” is one of their most emotionally moving songs.

15. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”- The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys have many possible song choices. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” has some of the best harmonies and profound lyrics that anything with intelligence and emotions can relate to.

16. “I Want It That Way”- Backstreet Boys

The Backstreet Boys classic is more than just a song that teenage girls love. A hilarious scene from Brooklyn Nine-Nine proves that. It’s romantic, and the vocals are incredible. It’s one of my all-time favorites.

17. “My Way”- Frank Sinatra

You must have Frank Sinatra as a vocalist you share to showcase the world’s best. He wasn’t nicknamed “The Voice” for nothing. And “My Way” is smooth as silk and iconic Sinatra.

18. “I Will Always Love You”- Whitney Houston

Watch babies, animals, or anyone who has never heard Houston’s version of this romantic ballad, and you’ll understand this choice. Her powerful vocals feel otherworldly, which seems more than appropriate.

19. “The Sound of Silence”- Simon & Garfunkel

Some songs have a purity and transcendent quality. Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” is one of those pieces. The lyrics are profound, and the way the song builds is an experience that can only be described as mind-blowing.

20. “At Last”- Etta James

If you want to impress alien visitors with one of the most captivating voices ever, go with Etta James. Her most famous song is the love ballad “At Last.” Many weddings indeed have this as a first dance song. Any piece that special could save humanity.

21. “Hallelujah”- Leonard Cohen

Much like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Hallelujah” is lengthy and deep. There are 87 verses, and the first ones are incredibly profound. Cohen is the original songwriter, and as one music aficionado states, he “could sing with his whole soul.” The song is powerful, and other gorgeous versions include those by Jeff Buckley, The Canadian Tenors, Andrea Bocelli, and Pentatonix.

22. “Landslide”- Fleetwood Mac

“Landslide” is dreamy and nostalgic lyrically and features the smooth and gorgeous vocals of Stevie Nicks. One person raves, “It’s the most perfect song I know.”

23. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”- Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

This is one of the most uplifting and popular songs. One needs only remember the many movies that have used this tune and how it enriches the viewing experience. It has a fantastic beat, optimistic and romantic lyrics, and incredible vocals.

24. “Dancing Queen”- ABBA

The music of ABBA feels universally loved—even those who may deny that no doubt can’t help but sing along to their timeless classic. You can have the time of your life with this one.

25. “Shallow”- Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper

The most recent offering on this list, “Shallow,” is my choice for a modern classic for a simple reason. My entire family gets chills every time we hear it, especially when the chorus first hits. Those goosebumps come every time.

This thread inspired this post.

Featured image credit: oneinchpunch/Shutterstock.

This article was produced and syndicated by The Happiness Function.