Anthems of Challenge: Uplifting Songs That Cheer You On to Take the Leap
When you take on something new, how do you get yourself fired up?
Of course, motivating yourself is important, but one way to take that first bold step might be to relax by listening to your favorite songs.
In this article, we’ve gathered tracks that give a supportive push to those who are ready to challenge themselves.
Even when you face difficulties, listening to your favorite music somehow lightens your heart, doesn’t it?
We’ve picked not only songs with lyrics about overcoming towering obstacles, but also encouraging tunes that gently wrap your worries in warmth—sure to fill you with positivity and power.
May your new world open up wide!
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- A classic song that sings of the future. Uplifting future-themed music that inspires hope.
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- An uplifting song with great lyrics. A wonderful, memorable message that stays with your heart.
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[Masterpieces That Sing of Challenge] Cheer Songs That Encourage You to Take on Challenges (111–120)
TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS
A powerful portrayal of relentlessly sprinting toward one’s goals, this signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS is set in the real world—not a utopia or a hell—and boldly declares that life itself has meaning even if we can’t be perfect.
Released in November 1988, this track, which lends its name to the album TRAIN-TRAIN, uses piano for the first time in the band’s history to create a sense of exhilarating momentum and reached No.
5 on the Oricon singles chart.
In 1989, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Rakugaki.” For those standing at a crossroads in life, this is a song that will be a powerful ally.
When you’re torn about a decision, let it be a source of courage that gives you a push forward.
SignalWANIMA
A song filled with courage and hope that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze! It features a driving, fast-paced sound and uplifting lyrics, carrying the message: “Even if we’re unfinished, let’s keep challenging ourselves.” Included on the January 2018 album “Everybody!!,” it was performed with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds on the NHK special program “18-sai Matsuri.” It was also used as the commercial song for Lotte Ice “Sou.” This is a track that gives a push to young people standing at life’s crossroads, such as during entrance exams or job hunting.
All the more reason to listen when you’re struggling with worries or anxiety—you’re sure to find courage.
exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]
![exceed; surpass; go beyond; cross (over)[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5ntakgegH8/sddefault.jpg)
An energetic rock number that begins with a distorted guitar.
It’s a track released from [Alexandros]’s album “PROVOKE,” selected as the opening theme for the first cour of the TV anime “Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.” The lyrics, themed around battling oneself and transcending one’s limits, align perfectly with the anime’s worldview, creating a powerful, inspiring message that stirs the listener’s heart.
It’s highly effective when you feel on the verge of breaking or need to psyche yourself up.
pyramid[Alexandros]
![pyramid[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QKrNZmyNCQg/sddefault.jpg)
[Alexandros]’s Kinjitō (Pyramid) was selected as the theme song for the TV drama Private Banker.
Set in the financial industry serving the wealthy, it’s a perfect fit for a story that portrays the protagonist’s fierce challenges and growth.
Its powerful rock sound and lyrics are infused with the determination to keep moving forward even on a difficult journey.
It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who wants to keep facing forward and moving on, even after tasting defeat.
Go for it!Urufuruzu
An energetic cheer song by Ulfuls, with powerful shouts and an up-tempo melody that resonates in the heart.
Its theme is walking forward with confidence and courage, carrying a message to face difficulties with a positive attitude.
Upon its release in December 1995, it took the music scene by storm, as if casting new light on the spirit of the times.
The album “Banzai” also became a massive hit, selling over one million copies, and the band went on to perform in the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.
This work is truly a song of encouragement for the heart, gently giving you a push when you need a little boost in everyday life or want to rally yourself.
Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia
This track, distinguished by lively festival-like drums and flutes, weaves in themes that deeply reflect on the meaning of life and personal values through scenes of nature.
While questioning the purpose of living and our reason for being, it delivers a powerful message of courage and hope in the face of hardship.
Released in June 1984 as the debut single of Ikkyo Fubi Sepia, it reached No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
It was also used in commercials for SUZUKI’s scooter “Love THREE” and Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Shochu Tanrei Straight,” gaining popularity across a wide audience.
It’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward and keep walking when you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling lost or anxious.
MVPIwatatakanori
A much-talked-about solo track by Takanori Iwata, who’s active as a member of J SOUL BROTHERS III and EXILE, and was also featured in the Suntory Pepsi Nama BIG ZERO LEMON commercial.
It’s a hip-hop number with a striking, powerful beat, drawing attention for its sharp rap and dance performance.
The lyrics exude confidence—as if declaring “I’m the MVP!”—and just reading them can give you courage, making it a resonant cheer song.
There are also lines that reflect on Iwata himself—his multifaceted talents as a singer, dancer, and actor—so be sure to take your time and read through the lyrics.
