Happy Day playlist: Canadian songs that'll get you dancing
Shania Twain said it best in her song "Up!": "Can only go up from here."
Her lyrics are a reminder that, despite some circumstances, making a 180 isn't just a rotation — it's a state of mind. Twain's "Up!" is one of many turn-that-frown-upside-down songs that can relieve a bad mood. So, on the occasion of International Happy Day, we've put together an uplifting all-Canadian playlist. Turn down the sadness, and welcome the positive vibes. Hit play directly below for the full list, and scroll down for some of our favourites.
Pharrell Williams, 'Happy' (Kaytranada Edition)
We couldn't put together a list about happiness without including Pharrell Williams's song "Happy" — with a Canadian twist. Montreal-based producer Kaytranada remixed "Happy", maintaining the upbeat style and vibe of the original song while infusing it with a sleek instrumental and fresh drum pattern. The original song won a Grammy for best music video, and was the best-selling song of 2014 in the U.S.
Tanika Charles, 'Soul Run'
Tanika Charles's "Soul Run" will get you in the mood to dance. It's a motivational song that'll encourage you to leave a situation that is holding you back. Her lyrics, "I'm on the road on the road again/ I can never go back, never/ no more," are wise words to live by.
Walk Off the Earth, 'Shape of You' (Ed Sheeran cover)
Walk Off the Earth's cover of Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You", will put a smile on your face. The band uses a variety of homemade instruments and toys, creating a hypnotic version that you won't be able to get enough of. An extra plus? The group's version features a mash-up of TLC's "No Scrubs" and Blackstreet's "No Diggity".
K-os, 'Sunday Morning'
If you're having a rough day, this song is sure to cheer you up. The upbeat tempo paired with drums, the piano and k-os's smooth voice will uplift your spirits. In an interview with Canoe, k-os says the song was inspired by church and family — two main ingredients for a powerful, relatable track. "This song is about an individual who realizes how sacred Sunday morning used to be and he can't wait until Sunday morning is something that helps him out instead of a day of rest."
Feist, '1,2,3,4'
It's hard to believe that "1,2,3,4" by Feist turns 10 this year. The song's ability to exude a positive, fun vibe makes it one of our favourites. The song remains one of Feist's biggest hits to date, and is her only song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. "1,2,3,4" is a sweet, yet powerful number — it'll be a good earworm to catch.