Tear-jerking motivational songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks
I imagine many of you are giving your all every day—studying, working, doing housework, managing relationships—and along with that, the worries never seem to end.
For those people, I’d love for you to listen to these “tear-jerking, cheering songs—band edition” even if it’s just in little pockets of free time.
Rather than pumping you up, these songs stay close to your heart, move you to tears, and quietly fill you with personal strength.
Give them a listen when it really counts.
Let’s overcome the pain and sadness with songs that feel like someone who truly understands you.
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Tear-jerking motivational songs by Japanese bands: Recommended classics and popular tracks (11–20)
Endless JourneyMr.Children
The 15th single by the monster band Mr.Children—whose name everyone likely knows thanks to their many signature hits.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Naguru Onna,” this track lingers in the ear with its lyrical melody and an arrangement that shifts keys at a dizzying pace.
Life isn’t all joy; there are painful times too, but the lyrics touch the heart by telling us that a shining future awaits beyond overcoming it all.
In contrast to the powerful words, the gentle melody feels as if it’s right there beside you.
It’s a masterpiece I want people to hear when they’re struggling and feel like running away—one that gives you the hope to try just a little longer.
Tomorrow, again[Alexandros]
![Tomorrow, again[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qVDgV2JQydk/sddefault.jpg)
While their signature song “Wataridori” also carries a message that really hits home, the track “Ashita, Mata” seeps in gently—and it might just let all those pent-up feelings burst out and make you cry.
Released in 2017, it was also featured in a Clorets commercial.
Its appeal lies in lyrics that resonate deeply with people carrying various struggles or emotional wounds—those feeling defeated by their current situation, heartbroken, or troubled by relationships.
It’s a song that slowly spreads through your heart, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance.
Kokoro no NakaRADWIMPS
This is a song by RADWIMPS that was released digitally in May 2020.
At the time of its release, the world was reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, and what had once been normal was no longer so; Japan was enveloped in anxiety.
The word “self-restraint” was everywhere, and people were restricted from doing what they loved or seeing those they cared about.
Many listeners must have found solace in the lyrics of this song.
It feels like setting down the burdens you’ve been carrying, and it’s a track that naturally brings tears to your eyes.
Goodbye, colorSUPER BUTTER DOG
This is the eighth single by the five-piece funk band SUPER BUTTER DOG, who, despite gaining popularity for their high-level musicianship and uniquely floating, dreamy lyrics, disbanded in 2008.
The song was chosen as the theme for the film “Sayonara Color,” directed by actor Naoto Takenaka, who was inspired by the track.
Its wistful melody—carried by the acoustic guitar’s tone and slide guitar phrases—has a way of sticking with you.
The message, which questions the act of turning away from one’s true feelings, will likely strike a nerve for many listeners.
It’s a thought-provoking number that I hope reaches those who find it hard to be completely honest with others—and with themselves.
SHAM ROCKUVERworld
Formed in Shiga Prefecture and now beloved by a wide range of fans, UVERworld is a six-member rock band.
Their highly popular song “SHAMROCK,” released in 2006, was also used as the theme song for the drama Dandori: Dance☆Drill, starring Nana Eikura.
It’s a number that cheers on those striving toward their dreams and goals, yet it surely resonates with the hearts of those who’ve experienced heartbreak as well.
The lyrics are relatable in how the words received from that person become nourishment for facing what lies ahead.
If you laugh at the skywacci
This is a song that cheers on everyone who’s worked hard.
Wacci, known for delivering heartwarming tracks that fit into everyday life, released it in July 2018.
It was also included on their album Ultramarine Refrain, released in November of the same year.
In 2019, it was chosen as the support song for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV “Japan Connects Project,” gaining attention as it resonated with the struggles and triumphs of athletes.
There are days when things don’t go your way as you devote yourself to club activities or entrance exam prep.
In those moments, this song gently reminds you that the friends who have been striving alongside you can be your support.
It’s a friendship anthem that gives you the strength to keep looking forward, even while carrying frustration.
Give it a listen, and let it take you back to the time you spent with your cherished friends.
Tear-jerking motivational songs by Japanese bands: Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (21–30)
Kimisidai TrainONE OK ROCK
A track from ONE OK ROCK’s early masterpiece “Zankyo Reference,” released in 2011, it’s one of their most popular songs as an anthem of encouragement.
The song features a brisk, straightforward guitar-rock sound that makes you feel more positive just by listening.
The lyrics carry a message that feels like someone giving you a firm pat on the back and saying, “Get it together!”—and this song will surely help you when you feel like you’re about to break.