8 Hit Songs You Didn’t Know Could Probably Help You Save a Life

When it comes to life-saving techniques, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is undeniably at the forefront. It's one of those crucial skills everyone hopes they’ll never need but should absolutely have in their arsenal.

Administering CPR correctly can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation, particularly when someone’s heart has stopped beating or they’ve stopped breathing. However, performing CPR isn’t just about pressing down on the chest; it’s about getting the rhythm right.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends performing chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute (BPM) to effectively keep blood flowing to the vital organs.

But let’s be honest—counting beats in your head while trying to save a life can be a bit overwhelming. That’s where music comes in!

Believe it or not, some of your favorite songs have the perfect tempo to help guide your chest compressions during CPR. These tunes can keep you on the beat, ensuring that your compressions are both effective and consistent.

Thanks to some savvy medical professionals on TikTok, there’s now a fresh playlist of CPR-appropriate songs that can assist you in staying in rhythm when it matters most. From timeless classics to modern hits, this list has got you covered.

The next time you’re brushing up on your CPR skills, why not do it to a soundtrack? After all, the chorus that’s stuck in your head might just save a life.

Here’s a rundown of songs that not only rock the charts but also have the potential to rock the rhythm of CPR compressions:

1. "Stayin’ Alive" by Bee Gees

This iconic disco track is practically synonymous with CPR. With a tempo of around 104 BPM, it’s no wonder that "Stayin' Alive" has become the go-to song for life-saving compressions. The song’s title is a fitting reminder of the stakes at hand, making it the ultimate anthem when you need to keep someone "Stayin' Alive."

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2. "Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z

Queen Bey reigns supreme not just on stage but also in emergency situations. "Crazy in Love" hits a tempo of 99 BPM, which, while slightly on the lower end, is still within the effective range for CPR. Its upbeat rhythm and infectious chorus can help you keep the pace during those critical moments.

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3. "Dancing Queen" by ABBA

Who knew that "Dancing Queen" could save lives? With a tempo of 100 BPM, this ABBA classic is perfect for maintaining a steady rhythm while performing CPR. The song’s joyful vibe makes it a fun yet effective choice when every second counts.

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The Rhythm of CPR

According to Dr. Michael Sayre, a prominent figure in emergency medicine, performing CPR to a rhythm greatly enhances its effectiveness. He notes that popular songs like 'Stayin' Alive' by the Bee Gees have a tempo of about 100-120 beats per minute, which aligns perfectly with the recommended rate for chest compressions.

This not only helps maintain the right rhythm but also eases the stress of performing CPR in high-pressure situations. Dr. Sayre strongly advocates for public CPR training that incorporates music, suggesting that it could significantly improve survival rates in cardiac arrest cases.

Building Community Awareness

Community awareness plays a pivotal role in enhancing CPR knowledge. Dr. David Markenson, a leading authority in emergency preparedness, stresses the importance of local initiatives that educate the public about CPR and its rhythmic application.

He advocates for CPR training sessions in schools, workplaces, and community centers to foster a culture of readiness. These programs can empower individuals to act swiftly in emergencies, potentially saving lives. By making CPR training accessible and engaging, communities can ensure that more people are equipped with this critical life-saving skill.

4. "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor

If there’s a song that embodies the spirit of survival, it’s Gloria Gaynor’s "I Will Survive." Clocking in at 117 BPM, this anthem is an excellent choice for chest compressions. The empowering lyrics and steady beat can provide the motivation needed to push through a critical situation.

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5. "Please Please Please" by Sabrina Carpenter

Originally popularized as a TikTok trend, "Please Please Please" by Sabrina Carpenter is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a lifesaver. With a BPM of 107, it’s a solid choice for CPR. Thanks to Nurse John Dela Cruz, who demonstrated its effectiveness on TikTok, this song is now part of the CPR playlist.

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6. "Good Luck, Babe!" by Chappell Roan

Rising artist Chappell Roan’s "Good Luck, Babe!" is another fantastic option, with a tempo of 120 BPM. This track hits the sweet spot, ensuring your compressions are perfectly on beat and giving the best chance of survival.

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Music therapy expert, Dr. Jennifer Edwards, emphasizes that integrating music into life-saving techniques can reduce anxiety for both the rescuer and the victim. She explains that the familiar beats and melodies can create a calming environment, which is essential during emergencies.

Dr. Edwards' research highlights that even simple tunes can help in maintaining focus and rhythm while performing CPR. She recommends that individuals practice CPR techniques with their favorite songs, thus blending life-saving skills with enjoyable activities.

7. "TEXAS HOLD 'EM" by Beyoncé

Beyoncé makes another appearance on this list with "TEXAS HOLD 'EM." With a BPM of 110, this song provides a consistent rhythm for CPR. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning, this track can help guide you through those crucial moments.

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8. "You’re Losing Me" by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s ballad might have an ironic title, but "You’re Losing Me" is ideal for CPR with its BPM of 103. A Filipino nurse even confirmed the song’s tempo as perfect for chest compressions, making it an unexpected yet effective choice for a life-saving scenario.

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And here's a complete playlist for you to practice on:

These songs are more than just hits—they’re potential lifesavers. The next time you’re brushing up on your CPR skills, consider adding these tracks to your playlist. They might just help you keep the beat and save a life!

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Healing Approaches & Techniques

Incorporating music into CPR training can revolutionize how we approach life-saving techniques. Experts like Dr. Michael Sayre and Dr. Jennifer Edwards highlight the benefits of rhythm and familiarity in reducing anxiety and improving effectiveness during emergencies. Furthermore, community education initiatives led by professionals like Dr. David Markenson can enhance awareness and accessibility of CPR training.

By blending music with CPR skills, we can create a more knowledgeable and confident population ready to respond in critical situations. Remember, preparedness is key—so let’s make CPR a part of our everyday conversations.