I was just reading a list of Top 10 songs about team work and I hadn’t heard any of the songs on the list. Then I checked another list and found titles I knew, but the songs weren’t really about team work. It occurs to me that when people come up with their ideas for songs about team work, they’re first and foremost looking for songs that will inspire them and resonate with them emotionally. While not necessarily about team work, these songs may get a team working together better by creating mutual connections. When you share a favorite song with friends, it becomes part of your bond and your shared language. The same is true with work friends or teams.

Think about getting in your car after a long day and how you may feel; stressed or worn out. Then think about the impact your favorite play list has on you as you drive home. Songs that make connections and touch on your memories can definitely change your mood and put you back in touch with the positive side of things. In the context of your work life, if you take time to find a team song or songs, they can become part of your culture and have positive impact. Songs can be great morale boosters. Songs can also re-connect a work team with important foundational things like mission and purpose.

Not long ago, I led our music team building program with an automotive company based in Detroit. Naturally, it was easy for them to connect with and be inspired by Motown songs. Using several great Motor City hits, this group created their own lyrics and then performed the songs for each other. The process was fun, collaborative and it provided a playlist of songs that are now part of this work team’s shared culture. The songs are go-to’s when the team needs a lift.

How To Find Your Own Songs About Team Work

Survey your team members to find out what kind of music they like and which performers they listen to. Invite team members to add songs to a master list – songs that inspire them and that they believe relate to your work. These songs should have positivity and energy. Once you have a list, begin to play these songs during team meetings, lunch breaks, as meeting closers, on road trips etc. Over time, you’ll find your anthem, in a sense your fight song, – a musical message the motivates and reminds everyone how great it is to be a part of your team.

About Billy Kirsch

Billy is a Grammy & Emmy nominated, CMA & ACM award winning songwriter with numerous Top 10 hits to his credit. His team building programs and keynote speaking presentations help people tap into their creative abilities to become more innovative and engaged in their work. Clients include Fortune 100 companies and organizations throughout the world.