Dare to Listen: Girl Power Playlist

Admit it—you rely on lighthearted pop music to boost your spirits (and your ego) from time to time. You’re familiar with “Firework” and “Born This Way,” but what about some of the lesser-known jams by your favorite Top 40 divas? Whether you prefer your tunes slow and soulful or rough around the edges, give these lesser-known girl power anthems a spin.

Britney Spears. If you love Britney’s naughty, over-the-top dance tracks, don't miss her cover of Bobby Brown's “My Prerogative.” Britney was the original Disney starlet (she got her start on The Mickey Mouse Club), and she’s been thumbing her nose at critics since before Miley was even a blip on the radar. Through breakups and breakdowns, Britney has refused to let anyone’s judgment stop her from her thing—and whether or not you agree with her lifestyle, you have to admire her resilience.

Lady Gaga. Gaga frequently celebrates her famous sexuality in her songs, but we love the more substantial affirmations she puts forth on musical pep talk “The Queen.” Gaga’s abstract lyrical sensibility takes a Whitman-esque turn, making strong use of natural imagery (“I am wind and hurricane / The stormy sky and rain”), and the lilting rock-reggae riff toward the end of the track seems to embody both freedom and melancholy—a testament to Gaga’s vocal talent as well as her complex inner life.

Rihanna. Much has been said about Rihanna’s transformation from Barbados sweetheart to all-American bad girl, so we’ll let “Rockstar 101” speak for itself. Though it flew under the radar, this song announced Rihanna’s presence as a cultural force better suited to stadium tours than station wagons. Think of it as a how-to manual for defying expectations.

Beyoncé. After her origins as Destiny’s Child's frontwoman gave way to a booming solo career, Beyonce proved that she could hold her own against single ladies and rap moguls alike. But one of her strongest performances to date takes place on “Listen,” a song the R&B superstar recorded for her role in the movie musical Dreamgirls. It’s all there—the vocal gymnastics, the life-affirming lyrics, the spine-tingling climax. Just don't blame us if you end up getting a reprimand for belting at your cubicle.

—Emma Aubry Roberts