That Eric Halper
It’s Cheer Up the Lonely Day—Here Are 10 Songs That Celebrate Friendship and Human Connection
By Eric Halper
July 12, 2025
Hamish Stuart, Bette Midler, and Toni Basil, ???
Today is Cheer Up the Lonely Day, a gentle reminder that a kind word, a small gesture, or even just showing up can shift someone’s entire world. Celebrated every July 11, this unofficial holiday encourages us to reach out—to text an old friend, call a grandparent, or simply sit with someone who might be feeling alone. Music, of course, has always been a bridge to connection. So in honour of the day, here are 10 songs about friendship that remind us we’re never really alone—even when it feels like it.
Bill Withers – “Lean on Me”
An eternal classic that promises exactly what its title says. When you’re not strong, this song stands in the gap and reminds you someone’s always willing to help you carry on.
Carole King – “You’ve Got a Friend”
The ultimate shoulder-to-cry-on ballad. With one gentle piano riff and King’s warm vocals, this track wraps around you like a handmade quilt.
Ben E. King – “Stand By Me”
A song so timeless it sounds like it’s always existed. It’s about loyalty, trust, and the quiet strength of having someone by your side—no matter what shakes the ground.
Randy Newman – “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”
Made iconic by Toy Story, but the sentiment works in every decade. Friendly, funny, and full of heart—this one’s for the lifelong buddies who’ve seen you at your best and your weirdest.
Dionne Warwick & Friends – “That’s What Friends Are For”
A star-studded anthem of gratitude and togetherness, where every line is a hug and every harmony says, “You’re not alone in this.”
Queen – “You’re My Best Friend”
A feel-good groove with a side of glam, this one celebrates the kind of friendship that turns into family. Perfect for that one friend who always gets you—no questions asked.
The Beatles – “With a Little Help from My Friends”
Ringo takes the mic for this ode to friendship that’s equal parts tender and cheeky. It’s a reminder that our friends make even the hardest days manageable.
Bruno Mars – “Count on Me”
Bright, breezy, and heartfelt, Bruno’s message is simple: when the storm comes, I’ll be there. A perfect song for passing along to someone who needs a little light.
The Rembrandts – “I’ll Be There for You”
Yes, it’s the Friends theme, but for good reason. Sometimes all someone needs to hear is “I’ll be there,” and suddenly it’s not such a bad day anymore.
Bette Midler – “Wind Beneath My Wings”
A soaring tribute to the quiet heroes in our lives. For the friend who cheers you on from behind the scenes, this one says it all—gracefully and with gratitude.
So today, pick up the phone, send a link to one of these songs, or surprise someone with a little unexpected kindness. Because every day is a little better with a friend—and on Cheer Up the Lonely Day, that truth hits especially sweet.
Mister D: And I’m going to add the oft-neglected Midler songs, Friends and My One True Friend. Both songs deal with – duh! – Friendship and Bette sells the songs like nobody else.
Bette Midler’s Songs: “Friends” and “My One True Friend“
1. “Friends” (1973) Background and Release:
- Title: “Friends” (also known as “(You Got to Have) Friends”)
- Writers: Written by Buzzy Linhart and Mark “Moogy” Klingman.
- Context: Midler first heard the song while rehearsing for a Broadway audition for Mirror Cracked. Linhart, a close friend, shared the song with her, and she performed it at the Continental Baths in New York, which helped popularize it.
- Musical Style: The song has a pop sound with a touch of rock, differing from Linhart’s own version, which leaned more toward rock. It features a Phil Spector medley influence and includes contributions from studio musicians like Ann S. Clark (background vocals)
- Themes: “Friends” is an upbeat ode to the importance of friendship, with lyrics emphasizing the strength and necessity of companionship: “But ya got to have friends / The feeling’s oh so strong.” It captures a sense of camaraderie and emotional support.
2. “My One True Friend” (1998) Background and Release:
- Title: “My One True Friend”
- Writers: Written by Carole King, Carole Bayer Sager, and David Foster, with Foster also serving as the producer.
- Release: Released in August 1998 as the lead single from Midler’s ninth studio album, Bathhouse Betty, on Warner Bros. Records. The song was also featured as the soundtrack for the film One True Thing, directed by Carl Franklin.
- Musical Style: A heartfelt pop ballad with lush orchestration, featuring sweeping piano lines by Carole King and Midler’s emotive vocals. It was compared to her earlier hit “Wind Beneath My Wings” for its emotional resonance and accessibility.
- Themes: The song explores deep friendship and gratitude, with lyrics reflecting on the enduring impact of a true friend: “In the end, you are my one true friend.” It speaks to forgiveness, personal growth, and the transformative power of a loyal companion, making it a fitting choice for funerals or memorials, as noted in its use in such settings
