8 of the best songs for the Armed Forces

Whether you're in the Armed Forces, know someone who is or just support those that are a part of them, you probably love a good song with a positive military message. 

A fair few tracks out there can be quite negative about the Forces or the actions they're involved in, but others are tributes to the military and soldiers that have a more upbeat message.

If you're looking for some songs to add to your playlist that make you proud to be in the Forces or of those who are, we've found some excellent tracks you might like.

Here's what you should be listening to:

Eye of the Tiger – Survivor

Okay, so this isn't exactly a military-themed song but it is certainly going to get you pumped up. As well as conjuring up images of Sylvester Stallone running up some stairs, the song as a positive message that anyone in the Forces is sure to appreciate – even if it does end up stuck in your head for days.

I Raq and Roll – Clint Black

While this song is technically about the US military, it still holds true for British Forces too, especially the chorus:

I Raq, I rack 'em up and I roll
I'm back and I'm a high-tech GI Joe
I pray for peace, prepare for war
And I never will forget
There's no price too high for freedom
So be careful where you tread

These Colours Don't Run – Iron Maiden

If you like music that is a bit heavier, this Iron Maiden song could be for you. It may not be the most positive song, but the patriotic message is pretty cool. Plus, if you're going to listen to heavy metal, it might as well have an army angle.

I Won't Back Down – Johnny Cash

This isn't really a military song, but in true Johnny Cash style, it has a powerful message that anyone in the Forces is sure to appreciate. The idea of not backing down and fighting your ground is one that any soldier can relate to:

Well I won't back down, no I won't back down
You can stand me at the gates of hell
But I won't back down

Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins

If you've seen the Tom Cruise classic that is Top Gun, you might recognise this song. Those in the Forces often have to deal with the danger zone, so this song is pretty suited to them. Plus it has a kick ass 1980s vibe that never gets old – even if you do get flashbacks of that volleyball scene.

In the Navy – The Village People

Yes, we know this song is probably one of the cheesiest ones ever recorded, but we couldn't write this list without including it. You might get a bit of flak for having it on your playlist, but everyone secretly loves it at least a little bit. Just ignore The Village People's dodgy outfits.

Thunderstruck – ACDC

This song, while not totally military related, has been used in a few army videos and there is a version that features the sound of Apache helicopters, which is why we've included it in this list. Plus there's the fact that it's just a great song and is sure to get you pumped and ready for anything – pretty much like most of ACDC's songs.

Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes

Known for having one of the most instantly recognisable opening riffs ever, Seven Nation Army is a pretty positive song all about perseverance, which is great for the Forces. It isn't the most upbeat song, but it's a pretty great one no matter what.