Cheer songs that were hits in the 2000s
When it comes to cheering someone on, that lively, energetic, and speedy “rah-rah” feeling is important.
That said, that’s more for sports-style cheering.
Sometimes a gentle, mellow song can lift up a heart that’s feeling down or troubled.
From high-energy, athletic vibes to quietly encouraging ones, here are pep songs suited to a variety of moments.
- An energizing song that was a hit in the 2000s—a classic that gives you strength.
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- Just by listening, you’ll feel braver! Cheer songs recommended for the Yutori generation
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- [Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- Uplifting! Heisei-Era Cheer Songs: The Best Hits
- Recommended cheering songs for men: classic and popular J-Pop tracks
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
Top 10 motivational/cheering songs that were hits in the 2000s
swallowtail butterflyPorno Graffitti
Released in 2001 and a massive hit, Porno Graffitti’s “Agehachou” features a groove you can move to and a flowing melody that lingers in the listener’s ears.
His vocals, which feel like racing forward on a refreshing summer breeze, also embody what makes this band so great.
HEROMr.Children
Mr.Children continues to release many masterpieces, and this song stands out with a message that is so characteristic of them and a melody that resonates deeply with listeners.
“HERO,” used in a commercial, captured the hearts of many.
It was released in 2002 and became a hit.
Surfing JohnnyKuwata Keisuke
“Naminori Johnny” is one of Keisuke Kuwata’s classic summer songs.
It’s a defining track of the 2000s, having won Song of the Year at the 16th Japan Gold Disc Awards.
Its upbeat tempo and the characteristically emotive vocals associated with Southern All Stars capture the hearts of Japanese listeners.
It’s a hit masterpiece from the 2000s.
Cheer Songs That Hit in the 2000s (11–20)
Neo universeL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
L’Arc-en-Ciel’s ‘Neo Universe.’ It became a hot topic after being featured as a Shiseido commercial song.
With L’Arc’s characteristically grand sound and his refreshing, soaring vocals, it weaves the melody of a classic.
It’s a hit that remains one of L’Arc’s signature songs.
The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP
Released as a single in March 2003, this song had been included on the previous year’s album “SMAP 015/Drink! Smap!” but gained major attention when it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Boku no Ikiru Michi,” starring Tsuyoshi Kusanagi.
With lyrics by Noriyuki Makihara, it warmly conveys the irreplaceable value each person holds by depicting flowers proudly blooming without competing with one another.
Its message—prioritizing living true to yourself over aiming to be number one—resonated deeply with many people weary of a competitive society, leading to a record-breaking triple-million hit.
It’s a song that gently nudges you forward when you feel you’re losing sight of who you are.
I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma
When it comes to songs that define the 2000s, Thelma Aoyama’s “Soba ni Iru ne” comes to mind.
When I’m alone, her lyrics and gentle voice soothe my loneliness and give me courage.
Released in 2008, it became her signature hit, featured in commercials and as a ringtone download, achieving a total of about 8.5 million downloads.
PIECES OF A DREAMCHEMISTRY
Released in 2001, CHEMISTRY’s “PIECES OF A DREAM” was a massive hit and won Song of the Year at the 16th Japan Gold Disc Awards.
Its memorable chorus and the duo’s harmonies made a powerful impact on listeners.