Top 50 Songs for a Sister

This list compiles 50 songs that laud sisterhood with various genres and generations. There’s inclusion of iconic anthems and contemporary tracks, ranging across pop and rock to R&B and country. Each of the entries encompasses the song and artist within a header, with a short description and any chart success. The list runs to ensure that a spectrum of style is achieved – you will note the inclusion of disco and ballads and anthems and all kinds of stuff between, to represent the way music rejoices over sisters. There were some that reached the top of the charts and some that were soulful album tracks, but that all honor a sister perfectly. Let’s get into these tracks that embody the sister bond with fun, sentimental, and motivational ways.

We Are Family by Sister Sledge

This disco hit by Sister Sledge was an adoptive theme song of staying together. It reached No. 2 on the US pop singles and reached No. 1 on the R&B and dance charts to make it a mass phenomenon. Its happy, upbeat message of familial unity makes this song a befitting ode to sisters. The catchy chorus and funky tune have made this song an all-time weekend favorite among siblings and friends.

Sister Christian by Night Ranger

A power ballad based on a coming of age of a young sister, Night Ranger’s Sister Christian was the largest success of the band. The song came out in 1984 and reached the US Billboard Hot 100 No. 5. Its hook-laded chorus and pulsating guitar took the heart of many listeners. Based on its theme of the brother telling his sister about life, the song was an ’80s FM radio hit and an ideal addition to any playlist dedicated to sisters.

Sisters Are Doin It For Themselves by Eurythmics & Aretha Franklin

This empowering pop-rock collaboration between Eurythmics and Aretha Franklin was a feminist song of the 1980s. Starring Annie Lennox and Aretha, Sisters Are Doin It For Themselves reached the US Top 20 (peaking roughly No. 18) and the UK No. 2. The song is a celebration of independent, independent-tough women – a message that resonates with sister solidarity. It’s upbeat, soulby and with lots of spirit, that’s why this’s an empowering choice of sisters.

Hey Soul Sister by Train

Train’s Hey Soul Sister was a chart-topper pop sensation in 2009. The song reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and took home a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance. Thanks to its memorable ukulele riff and upbeat mood, the song is like a comforting message to that special someone. Although not actually about siblings, due to its title and lighthearted, candid quality, the song is increasingly trendy to dedicate to close companions or sisters as a way of affection. It’s impossible not to grins to this bright, cheery song.

Little Sister by Elvis Presley

Rock and roll icon Elvis Presley reached #5 US with Little Sister in 1961. The track mockingly rants about his little sister’s boyfriend, with fun vocals and raspy guitar. Being one of his standard ’60s singles, the song reached the top of the UK and UK writers made of this tune a signature song. The song’s catchy beat and cheeky lyrics make this song a rockin’ single that can be relished to frolic the concept of siblings being each other’s watchdogs with fun.

Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Midler

A sentimental ballad frequently encored during special times, Wind Beneath My Wings is a song of thanks to that special someone who keeps you pumped up. Bette Midler’s 1989 recording (from the film Beaches) was No. 1 on the US pop chart for a week. Its breathy vocals and heartfelt words have made Wind Beneath My Wings a standard tune to play during times of saluting supportive relationships, including that perfect sister who’s been with you through thick and thin. It’s a sentimental selection to personalize with a sister to show appreciation.

Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ Girl on Fire is a motivational R&B pop song of 2012. The song was a success, reaching the Top 15 of US charts (approximately No. 11 of the Hot 100) and receiving recognition due to its empowering message. Keys herself sings of being “like a flame” of strength and being confident – and this song works systemtically to commemorate a sister’s power and autonomy. Passionate vocals and catchy chorus make the song seem even an inspirational rallying cry of sorts of sorts of sisters to encourage each other.

What About Your Friends by TLC

In 1992, What About Your Friends by R&B group TLC is about being true to oneself and second-guessing fair-weather friends. A huge success, its single peaked on or about No. 7 on the US chart. Although its theme is about friendship, its message can go to any close relationship. The song can be dedicated to a sister to remind her that she can always depend on you and that’s true between siblings too. Its infectious beat and rap hops keep this song locked into New Jack Swing and make it a fun head-nodding tune.

Count On Me – Whitney Houston & CeCe Winans

This soothing gospel/R&B collaboration between Whitney Houston and CeCe Winans (1996) is about having each other’s backs. The song reached a Top 10 slot on US charts (roughly No. 8). The song vows to stand by and keep company – “Count on me” here and there. It’s soothing and reassuring, while showcasing how one can lean on a sister during any rough patch. With its smooth, light listening style, this song is an emotional and comforting tune to play with one’s sibling.

Good Company and a Glass of Wine by LeAnn Rimes

In this late-2000s pop-country song, LeAnn Rimes croons about kicking back with a close friend (or sister) and a soothing drink. It wasn’t a huge hit single, but it’s one of her fan faves off of the album. The song itself is carefree and soothing – toasting the pure experience of just doing nothing and swapping tales. Although its singles spotlight didn’t shine bright, it’s a heartwarmy, mellow song about friendships and encouragement that makes this song an effortless choice for sister time.

Older Sister by Carly Simon

Older Sister by Carly Simon (1974) is a ballad soft-rock song with warm, intimate lyrics. Although not released as a single single, it’s found on her album Hotcakes. Here, Carly reminisces about being the older sister looking after the younger sister. The mood is soft and sentimental. Not having a large chart display dilutes nothing – it’s a sentimental song about the sisterly love within a family and remembering youth and taking care of each other.

My Sister by Reba McEntire

A ballad of a country song by Reba from the album My Sister released in 2003, My Sister is a sentimental ode to coming up together. Reba’s soothing voice and sentimental tune make My Sister a tearjerker. The song charted on the country scene (peaking in the teens). The song weaves tales of common memories and how the bond of being sisters holds through the years. It’s ideal for that person who’s looking for a very sentimental country song to celebrate the sister of days past.

Sister, Oh Sister by Rosanne Cash

Sister, Oh Sister by Rosanne Cash (2009) is a soft folk-rock song off her album The List. Jointly penned by Rosanne Cash with Elvis Costello, the song is a sweet, sentimental tune. The song didn’t make any chart singles, but its words bask in the warm relationship of sisters who keep each other’s backs. Rosanne’s narrative voice creates a scene of sisterly memories and good deeds. The soft melody makes it a soft, low-key gem for a sister playlist.

Sisters by The Puppini Sisters

This swing-jazzy cover song (2013) tips its hat to the 1954 White Christmas song “Sisters.” The Puppini Sisters add close harmonies and a period feel to the original lyrics. Although not a chart recording, this is a fun, old-style interpretation of sisterhood – toasting the line “Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters.” The bright arrangement and funereal delivery make this an airy, good-feel song to add to a mix based on sisters.

Baby Sister by Dolly Parton

“Baby Sister” is taken from Dolly Parton’s 1967 collection Just Because I’m a Woman. It’s a gentle country-pop tune in which Dolly offers words of wisdom to a younger sister experiencing heartbreak. The track’s production is unadorned, with Dolly’s warm delivery taking center stage. It wasn’t released as a single, only a fan favorite of its warm message. The song delivers sisterly affection and covering, with Dolly offering reassurance to her “baby sister” that bad times will pass. It’s a sentimental country interlude to hold between sisters.

My Sister Rose by 10,000 Maniacs

This 10,000 Maniacs alternative/folk-rock song from 1989 is a tale of a younger sister’s Wedding Day. The singer (Mancini) of this song tells of getting his sister Rose ready on her Wedding Day, with mixed-sweet feelings. The acoustic style of the band and the voice of singer Natalie Merchant make this song warm and mellow. Although not a pop song that reached the masses, this song loved its way into fans’ hearts with its story and honesty. A poignant, individual choice about a brother’s way of toasting his sister’s special day.

Sister Golden Hair by America

Catchy folk-rock song of 1975, Sister Golden Hair was America’s second US No. 1 single. Its light guitar and gentle vocals made its summer playability famous. Whilst the “sister” of the song is actually a love interest rather than a sibling, its memorable chorus has made its inclusion on sister playlists by popularity. The bright, sunny style and chorusing style (in this case, “staying in the sun all alone”) encapsulate a carefree mood, and thus typically regarded with a “feel good” sense that people of any background – including sisters marking good times – can adopt.

Two Sisters by The Kinks

From The Kinks’ 1967 album Something Else, Two Sisters relates a tale of sisters apart and made up. The song employs witty characters and a Kinks keystone melody. Although not a single, not being charted, this song is regarded by fans as a lost gem. In Ray Davies’ lyrics, an older sister moves out of the home and the younger is left behind, then their sorrow seeing the elder one go. It’s somewhat funny and reflective – a song of storytelling with a rock theme that examines sisters getting apart and then reuniting.

You Are My Sister by Antony and the Johnsons

This eerie, orchestral ballad by Antony and the Johnsons (now ANOHNI) was included on an album released in the year 2010. The words and sorrowful tune speak of affection and nearness (“You are my sister, you are my life”). The mood of the song is extremely reflective and sentimental. The song didn’t widely chart, but its soft, gospel-esque quality encompasses pure devotion. It’s a stunning, dramatic selection to convey the sentiment of a sister being nearly familial to you with the heart.

Sister by The Black Keys

Included on their 2010 disc Brothers, Sister is a rocker with a bluesy undertone by The Black Keys. The grungy vocals and guitar riffs make it gruff and rough. Not a single on any of their charts, but fans know it well as one of their standout tracks. The song refers to a sister in a cryptic manner within the theme of being part of a problem relationship. Its raw power and memorable groove make it slide into the sister-themed playlist by way of a rocker older sister.

Boss of Me – They Might Be Humans

This offbeat alternative rock song is iconic as the theme to the TV show Malcolm in the Middle. The mantra-like refrain of the chorus (“You’re not the boss of me now”) has a smile of defiant spirit. Although it didn’t make the singles charts, it took home a Grammy Award winning for the TV show’s soundtrack. Although the song itself isn’t actually about sisters, its theme of standing up to authority can be a lighthearted theme of standing up by oneself that’s sometimes found on sibling playlists. It’s a bright, catchy tune that many people link to growing up with siblings.

My Big Sister by Barenaked Ladies

A children’s song off Barenaked Ladies’ 2008 Snacktime!, My Big Sister humorously relays the ins and outs of having a bigger sister. The song is catchy and sing-songy with witty words about loving and being torched by one’s sister. The song didn’t commercially chart, but families enjoy using it. The comedic spin (“My big sister’s crazy, she drives me up the wall”) is gentle and fun and a darling addition – particularly among younger listeners observing sisterly love.

Girl by Destiny’s Child

This late-2000s R&B song by Destiny’s Child is about being a good supporting confidante (“for my girl”). It was a mid-chart hit, getting to about the Top 30 on US chart. The song’s smooth jam and “girl power” message about supporting someone who’s independent and independent and powerful is infectious. Although set up as a message to a female best friend or love interest, the song works best as an anthem of any close relationship. The song’s assertive “girl power” spirit makes this a bright and bubbly pick to pick your sister up with music.

Call Your Girlfriend by MØ

This 2019 pop-country song by Taylor Edwards took off on social media. The message is straightforward: get people to keep up with loved ones. Refrain phrases such as “Today, tomorrow, call your sister, cause maybe she’ll know just what to say” explicitly encourage checking up on a sister. It didn’t go on to have a large chart run, but it took on the role of sincere keepsake song to keeping the connection with the siblings alive. Within its acoustic pop genre and sincere chorus lies an sincere, heartfelt quality – a pleasant reminder to keep siblings connected.

My Sister by Juliana Hatfield

A 1993 alternative rock track, My Sister by Juliana Hatfield was her largest radio success. It failed to chart the Hot 100, but reached No. 1 on the US Modern Rock list. The verses combine anger (“I hate my sister, she’s such a bitch”) and sistership love (“I love my sister, she’s the best”) and resonates with the conflicted feelings siblings experience. Catchy guitar and open-ended vocals made this an alt rock standard of the ‘90s. The track’s raw, straightforward account of sibling relationships, ranging through beecheder and love, resonated with listeners.

Umbrella by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z

A massive pop-R&B ballad, Umbrella reached No. 1 on worldwide charts in 2007. Rihanna’s collaboration with Jay-Z reached No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and several others. It employs “under my umbrella” as a metaphor of being there during bad times. Although sung typically to a lover or buddy, its theme of protection and covering fits a sister context as well. Its catchy hook and danceable song make this a fun tune that many can identify with. Singing this to a sister sends the message “I’ve got you covered.”

Lean On Me by Bill Withers

This old soul song is all about being supportive. In 1972, Lean On Me reached #1 on the US chart. Bill Withers’ comforting voice allows everyone to lean on him during hard times. The soothing piano and soulful feeling make everyone want to reassure that they will be OK. It’s not necessarily a song about family, but people frequently play it for close relationships, including between sisters. It’s an old song that can be sung to remind a sister, “you can lean on me anytime.”

You’ve Got a Friend by James Taylor

Originally recorded by Carole King, James Taylor’s 1971 folk-rock rendition of You’ve Got a Friend reached No. 1 too. So gentle with soft guitar and reassuring words, that message of unconditional backing (“you just call out my name”) is irresistible. This soothing song will go down a storm with anyone who has someone special to call on – such as a sister. The relaxed, sincere note of this song makes it a sweet way of saying you’ll always be there for one another, a great sister song.

My Wish by Rascal Flatts

A 2006 pop-country hit, My Wish by Rascal Flatts hit No. 1 on the US Country and made the pop Top 30. The warm and optimistic words tell the wishes of the narrator onto the future of a loved one (“my wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to”). Although frequently sung by parents, those kindly wishing words go equally well sung by one’s sibling to another. Theumarative and sincere lyrics make this song a favorite to play during graduation, birthdays, or to simply inform your sister that you’re concerned about her aspirations.

Sisters (Version of White Christmas) by Rosemary Clooney & Vera-Ellen

This vintage tune is sung by White Christmas (1954). “Sisters” is sung by Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen in a fun duet. It’s an old-timer with crisp harmonies that salutes sisterly affection (“Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters…”). Although this didn’t make the charts (it’s a film song), its memorable tune and pleasant lyrics have turned this song into a timeless hit. This is an old-timey gem that fits a sister playlist with a vintage, jazzy theme – a flashback to siblings enjoying each other’s company.

Sister Moon by Sting

From Sting’s 1987 album Nothing Like the Sun, Sister Moon is a slow, ambient song. It’s a mopey song about musing beneath the evening sky. It didn’t get much airplay on the radio, but fans enjoy its lyrical atmosphere. The phrase “sister moon” makes it seem symbolic. Although not literally about siblings, the poetics make it an odd choice to make a list of sisters – it’s soothing and gentle, and perfect to play during a quiet moment of thinking of each other.

I’ll Be There by Jackson 5

The Jackson 5’s I’ll Be There (1970) is a soul classic promise. It reached No. 1 on the US charts. Adolescent Michael Jackson’s plaintive lead vocals hold lyrics about being there for somebody down (“Just call my name, and I’ll be there”). The comforting warm piano and lush harmonies make it contemporaneous. Although sung by a quartet of brothers, the theme of peerless backing can just as readily be translated to that of sisterly backing. It’s a sentimental choice that lets a sister know: irrespective of anything, you’ll be there.

I’ll Stand By You by Pretenders

A massive love ballad of 1994, I’ll Stand By You turned into a favorite of The Pretenders. It reached about No. 11 on US charts and reached a Top 10 position in the UK. Chrissie Hynde’s raspy voice gives a vow of protection (“I’ll stand by you, won’t let nobody hurt you”). The emotional buildup and soft beat of the song make it a sentimental dedication. Although people mostly consider this to be a romantic song, this act of standing by can aptly fit sisterly devotion.

This One’s For The Girls by Martina McBride

Martina McBride’s This One’s For The Girls (2003) is an uplifting country-pop song in honor of the female of the species of any age. It reached No. 3 on US country singles. Martina exudes encouragement and solidarity to girls and young women therein (“This one’s for the girls who every day is a different world…”). Though of women in general, its upbeat personality can be dedicated to any sister, particularly one who’s a girl or woman navigating life’s journey. It’s upbeat and fun, a sprig of sisterhood motivation with a fun country rhythm.

True Colors by Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper’s 1986 ballad True Colors is a song about unconditional acceptance of somebody’s true self. It reached No. 2 on the US chart. Gentility of its piano and warm voice of Cyndi convey a message of unconditional approval (“I see your true colors shinin’ through”). It serves best to reassure somebody that you’re deeply fond of him/her just the way he/she is. The song serves wonderfully well to send a warm message of love to your sister that you’re fond of her true self and that you will always be with her.

Stand By Me by Ben E. King

Ben E. King’s Stand By Me (1961) is the soul standard that topped the US to No.4. Its comforting hook “Darlin’, darlin’, stand by me” is a familiar phrase. The song assures fidelity and loyalty through thick and thin. Although sung to a lover by King, it’s been widely adopted within friendships and families. The song’s warm vocals and sentimental lyrics make it an ideal song to sing to a sister that you’ll always stand by her, no matter what.

Better Together by Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s Better Together is a lazy acoustic track by 2005. It wasn’t a bestseller, but it’s a radio hit famous for its relaxed appeal. Jack raves about how life is better with someone special by your side. In lyrics that state “Love is the answer at least for most of the questions in my heart,” this’s a gentle, uncomplicated song about friendship. Its soothing ukulele-based tune and warm words make this a track to brighten one’s day that could readily be inscribed on a card to send to a sister to tell her “life’s just better with you here.”

Sibling Rivalry by PUP

Catchy punk-pop track by the Canadian band PUP is not a single, but it gathered some indie attention. Sibling Rivalry is a lively song with catchy guitars and a bright tempo and comedic songwriting about the push-pull of siblings. Lyrics such as “I love you but I kind of hate you” sum up how siblings typically experience: kidding and loving each other. It’s a sarcastic choice to get on a sister list – a message that some competition and teasing is part of the sibling dynamic, to a catchy, boisterous song.

One Call Away by Charlie Puth

A pop/R&B hit of 2015, One Call Away by Charlie Puth was a US Top 20 single, reaching #12. It’s being always available to the other person (“I’m only one call away”). The positive bright piano tune and smooth vocals by Charlie make it an inspirational song. Although the lyrics are very romantic, the feeling can be applied to close relationships such as sisters as well. It’s a contemporary catchy message that irrespective of the distance, you’re not far if your sister requires you – she’s only “one call away.”

Brave by Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles’ empowering anthem Brave (2013) reached #23 on US charts. It’s a rousing pop song that wants to see people be brave and be true to themselves (“I want to see you be brave”). The catchy piano riff and dynamic vocals make us want to listen to this and belted out this song and make us feel powerful. Despite being typically about overcoming individual fears, it too has that “you can do this” quality siblings exude while cheering each other on. It’s a wonderful feel-good song to play before a sister to get her pumped up and make her remember she can tackle anything.

Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars’ first massive hit Just the Way You Are reached No. 1 on US charts in 2010. It’s a gentle pop ballad of loving the way someone looks (“When I see your face, there’s not a thing that I would change, ’cause you’re amazing”). The warm tune and genuine words make you able to replace “boyfriend/girlfriend” with “sister”. Giving this song to a sister indicates that you love her just the way she is. It’s a fun, upbeat selection – and who can’t help singing along to Bruno’s silky hooks?

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

This Motown hit of 1967 reached the Top 20 (No. 19 US) with Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. It assures that nothing can keep lovers together (“Ain’t no mountain high, ain’t no valley low, ain’t no river wide enough”). The bright, cheerful arrangement and strong vocals make it motivational. It’s commonly sung at weddings and graduations due to its encouraging message. For sisters, this is a defiant message: come any obstacles, they will always be supportive of each other. Its bright, soulful track makes this song funky and peppppy.

Thank You for Being a Friend by Andrew Gold

Most famously the theme song to The Golden Girls, this 1978 pop/rock tune peaked at US No. 25. A warm song of gratitude, Thank You for Being a Friend devotes each verse to thanking the listener (“You’ve been a friend to me…”). Catchy and sing-along able to that catchy tune and memorable chorus, this song of friendship has a warm, triumphant quality. Although conceived of friendship, its lyrics can apply to any close relationship. It’s best applied to commemorate long-lasting relationships. To share this with a sister is to make a public “thank you”for always having your back.

You’re My Best Friend by Queen

Queen’s Your My Best Friend (1975) was a US Top 20 single. It’s a bassist John Deacon song that’s a happy rock song about enjoying a loved one (“You’re the best friend that I ever had”). The upbeat piano riff and unison vocals make it a happy song. It’s iconic as a love song, but its words are equallyRomantic between siblings. Singing this to a sister lets her know that she’s not only family but your best buddy. It’s a vintage fun song sung by many generations.

Sisters by Bette Midler & Linda Ronstadt

This is their 2003 duet of the same White Christmas song by Bette Midler and Linda Ronstadt. It’s a big-band-sounding Broadway-style song. Their rich harmonies on “There were never such devoted sisters” make this warm and nostalgic. It wasn’t a chart success, but everyone loves its large, sunny sound. The chemistry between the stars makes the song fun and sentimental. It’s a riddle of a song, perfect to make sisters enjoy and feel special, with the feeling of sisters singing together ethereally in an opulent show.

Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion

Celine Dion’s power ballad Because You Loved Me was a massive success, reaching No. 1 in the US in 1996. It’s an emotional thank-you song to someone’s love and encouragement (“You’re the reason I’m a man, you’re the wind beneath my wings”). To begin with, this was a romantic ballad and its feeling of gratitude translates beautifully to the whole family. Singing this to a sister tells her that you’re grateful for all the love and advice she’s shown. The large-scale orchestration and Celine’s belting vocals make this an emotional centerpiece – the purest expression of thanks.

Stand By You by Rachel Platten

Released in 2015, Stand By You by Rachel Platten reached the Adult Contemporary Top 10. It’s an inspirational pop song of reassurance and comfort (“Even if we can’t find heaven, I’ll walk through hell with you…”). Its catchy chorus and inspirational mood make people want to keep together through thick and thin. It’s another that can mistakenly be translated to friendship or love but works too with sibling unity. It’s an upbeat, anthemic pop song that lets a sister know you’ll tackle anything together.

Family Reunion by The O’Jays

This 1975 soul R&B by The O’Jays didn’t make the pop charts, but it’s a favorite of the Philly soul genre. Its lyrics envision a large family get-together (“First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes my baby in a baby carriage”), festering over relatives singing together. It refers to dancing and embracing sisters and brothers. Its upbeat message of familial togetherness makes this a fun, funky addition. Playing this is equivalent to saying “the best family party is our family’s” – a lighthearted salute to siblings and all relatives.

You’ve Got a Friend by Carole King / James Taylor

This song actually occurs twice (as Carole King’s #1 original of 1971 and James Taylor’s equally notorious cover). It’s a timeless folk-pop staple of unconditional support. With soothing piano and harmonized vocals, phrases such as “you just call out my name, and you know wherever I’m, I’ll come running” make this song the being-there-one song. Sisters typically have that kind of relationship, thus making this song an organic choice for sister playlists. Its comforting tune and warm words provide reassurance – the sentiment that however bad/worse things get, you’ve each other’s backs.

Best Friend by Doja Cat and Saweetie

A fun pop ode to ride-or-die friendship that is perfect for sisters who are besties. Best Friend reached the US Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went multi-platinum, driven by its memorable hook and fun call-and-response verses. It’s catchy, sassy, and designed to be sung with inside jokes. If your sister is your cop-in-crime, this will be the one that resonates.

Each of these tracks pays tribute to sisterhood in its own unique way – some are overt testimonials, others embody the essence of devotion and loyalty that exists between sisters. All of them together bridge decades and genres to demonstrate all that music can convey with “I love you” to a sister. Whether you’re having a laugh together or getting through thick and thin together, this playlist has a unique offering for each sister duo. Have a happy way to celebrate your sister with these songs!