12 Empowering Anthems by Iconic Female Artists
In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Modern Parenting team shares their favorite tunes that scream #GirlPower
Women have often been described as nurturers, motherly, soft-spoken, and so on. But over the years, women have also shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields and the music scene is no exception.
International Women’s Day has evolved and songs performed by women have become banners of empowerment. The LGBTQIA+ community has also made some of these songs their anthem.
For our International Women’s Day entry, we thought of doing something fun by asking The Modern Parenting team what their favorite songs are from female artists. This is our tribute to women everywhere, especially mothers!
Fire up your music apps. Here goes…
“Roar” by Katy Perry
Ramon Galicia, COO, One Mega Group Inc.
“Roar” is one of Katy Perry’s songs from the album Prism released in 2013. And this is something our COO probably does every morning upon waking up to keep himself focused and motivated to lead One Mega Group!
In a 2014 interview with Radio.com, Bonnie McKee, who co-wrote the song with Katy, explained that the singer was going through a tough time as she was preparing to release the album Prism. McKee said that the song allowed Katy to “address her pain by focusing on her own power.”
“Express Yourself” by Madonna
Owen Maddela, Head of Content for Creative Services, One Mega Group Inc.
The queen of pop and the inimitable Madonna, is an icon in her own right with the repertoire of songs she has released through the years. “Express Yourself” (a track that’s very fitting for someone ultra creative like Owen) is from her lauded and timeless 1989 album, Like A Prayer.
The website Rhino reported that the song was partly inspired by Madonna’s divorce from actor Sean Penn in 1989. It also signified Madonna’s reflection of herself as a mature woman and artist.
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” by HAIM
Janine Recto, Head of Publishing and Marketing, One Mega Group Inc.
HAIM’s version of this track, originally performed by Shania Twain, has been a crowd favorite and part of many listeners’ playlists.
The original and iconic music video shows Shania, rejecting rides from different men. Billboard described the song as “sarcastically poking fun at a narcissistic suitor’s penchant for caring too much about his looks.” Shania, looking so unbothered and effortlessly chic, is proof that strong and intelligent women, like Janine, see through superficial gestures. They know that true respect is earned through genuine, heartfelt efforts.
“I’m Every Woman” by Whitney Houston
Sam Anciano, Ad & Promo Supervisor
“I’m Every Woman” was originally performed by Chaka Khan as part of her first album. But the legendary Whitney Houston gave it her own twist, becoming a feel-good, empowering dance anthem for many women — then and now.
The song was part of the movie The Bodyguard, where Whitney starred as pop diva Rachel Marron alongside Kevin Costner. And we are hoping Sam performs this for us at one of this year’s company events.
“Woman’s World” by Cher
Aman Razalan, YouTube Video Producer
“Woman’s World” is part of Cher’s 25th album called Closer To You.
The single is a classic women empowerment song as evidenced in its lyrics. The song was streamed on her website during Thanksgiving 2012 and she performed it during the season finale of The Voice in 2013.
“Woman’s World” is considered one of Cher’s classic songs that women the world over absolutely love and celebrate, alongside her other hits “Strong Enough” and “Believe.” Good one, Aman!
“Diva” by Beyonce
John Principe, Events Project Manager
“Diva” is part of Beyonce’s 2008 album I am Sasha Fierce. Although the term “diva” can also have a negative connotation, the song depicts independence and empowerment, and is said to be the feminine companion to another song called “A Milli” performed by Lil Wayne.
Don’t worry though, John is definitely not a diva.
“Call Me Mother” by RuPaul
Shem Barinaga, Account Manager, Modern Parenting
RuPaul is a mother in his own right, as one of the faces of the drag community.
‘Call Me Mother” is one of the songs from RuPaul’s album American. Shem describes the song as a representation of “empowering women especially those in Drag.”
“It’s a song appreciating women’s strengths and power,” he adds.
“Anxiety” by Doechii
Anthony Mendoza, Production Associate, Modern Parenting
Released in 2019, the song gained traction again in 2025 when people started posting it on TikTok.
For Toni, the song is about “fighting the anxiety and knowing when to relax and shake everything off.”
“Woman’s World” by Little Mix
Denielle Carag, Multimedia Artist, Modern Parenting
The song is part of the female group’s album LM5.
“[The song] encourages people to keep fighting and never giving up on their dreams; to respect all women in society,” Elle enthused.
According to Little Mix singer Jade Thirlwall, who co-wrote the song, “Woman’s World” was inspired by the #MeToo Movement.
“What A Girl Wants” by Christina Aguilera
Alexa Villano, Digital Writer, Modern Parenting
“What A Girl Wants” is part of Christina Aguilera’s first album Christina.
The upbeat song represents the point of view of women who attend and thank their partners for being there for them.
In an interview with Shelly Peiken, one of the songwriters behind the song said she was inspired by a guy who gave her space when she decided to move from New York to Los Angeles.
“The Man” by Taylor Swift
Kevyn Gohu-Catingub, Digital Writer, Modern Parenting
“The Man” is part of Taylor Swift’s album Lover. The video stars the singer, who also directed it with an alternate-ego named Tyler Swift, showing the double standards placed on women.
“Fly Like A Bird” by Mariah Carey
Marga Medrano-Tupaz, Editor-in-Chief, Modern Parenting
And last but not least, this artist, chosen by the modern parent herself needs no introduction. “Fly Like A Bird,” an R&B and somewhat unexpected gospel jam from The Emancipation of Mimi album never fails to hit the spot!
“This song, with all the classic Mariah runs and her signature sultry voice, is more than just a powerful song. It’s a powerful prayer. One that reminds us that when we go through difficult times, we should give all our worries to God or sing to him all our troubles and fears, as well as our pleas. ‘He said He’ll never forsake you or leave you alone, Trust Him.’ I love the lyrics. This is one song every woman should jam to, with hands up in the air as if she’s flying like a bird, at least once in her life,” our editor-in-chief Marga Tupaz enthused. “It’s just so darn good for your soul.”
The Power Of Music
Music is cathartic for many who want to express their thoughts but are unable to. Through music, they empower themselves and spread the message. It has also healed those who may have lost hope and are tired. More than empowering, music has saved lives and encouraged us to keep on moving amidst the challenges.
Which songs from female artists do you love and inspire you?
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