A collection of famous songs about “challenge” [For those who are giving it their all]
We all face different kinds of challenges: wanting to win that match, starting a new hobby, giving our all in a new chapter of life.
But before we take on a challenge, it’s easy to feel a bit anxious.
We can’t help thinking: Will it go well? What if I fail? What should I do afterward?
In this article, I’ve put together songs themed around “taking on challenges.”
Every track is sure to lift your spirits.
It’s a hot, positive playlist recommended for beating the pressure!
- Anthems of Challenge: Uplifting Songs That Cheer You On to Take the Leap
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- Timeless songs that sing of hopes and dreams. Masterpieces that lead those who strive toward the future.
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- Songs that give you strength. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- [Deeply Moving] A Tear-Jerking Cheer Song: Popular Inspirational Anthems That Resonate with the Heart
- [Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best
- [To All Athletes] Inspirational Sports Anthems & Empowering Theme Songs
- Club Activity Youth Songs: Motivational Anthems and Timeless Tracks of Memories with Teammates
- [Power Songs] The best bright, energizing tracks that lift your spirits!
- Before a match or when you feel like giving up! Cheer songs to keep you going in club activities
- Songs that help you work hard. Cheer songs for working people.
- [Today's Cheer Song] To everyone giving it your all! A gem of an inspiring anthem that resonates with the heart
A Collection of Classics Celebrating 'Challenge' [For You Who Keep Going] (11–20)
Flash GirlToukyou Jihen
Tokyo Jihen’s “Senko Shoujo” (“Sparkling Girl”) conveys a determination to fight through this one-and-only life.
Released digitally in 2007, the song was featured in a Subaru commercial and as the theme for an AbemaTV martial arts program.
Its shimmering, pop-leaning melody—common in many of Tokyo Jihen’s brighter numbers—instills hope in the act of taking on challenges.
The lyrics express a desire to cherish even fleeting moments of brilliance like a flash of light, turning one’s life and endeavors into something radiant.
If you’re struggling to see the light in your own challenges, why not borrow some of the glow from this song?
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
This is a hit song by singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, who has produced numerous masterpieces.
When things aren’t going well, when you’re struggling, or when you feel like giving up on what you wanted to do, listening to this song might encourage you to stay positive and keep challenging yourself.
Nameless Hero9mm Parabellum Bullet
With its cool rock sound and exhilarating, fast-paced melody, 9mm Parabellum Bullet’s “Nameless Hero” gives a push to anyone taking on a challenge.
Many of us admired heroes as kids—those who would risk everything to face any villain.
But you, walking a path where countless monsters and walls called life stand in your way, are just like the hero you once looked up to.
If you refuse to run and fight through whatever comes, you too can become a true hero.
It’s a track that fuels the power to take on challenges with that belief in your heart.
Soldier, run.B’z
“Hei, Hashiru” is read as “Tsuwamono, Hashiru.” This song was also used as a tie-in for the matches of Japan’s national team in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Just listening to it brings back the excitement of those rugby games, doesn’t it? According to the vocalist Inaba, the word “tsuwamono” (soldier/warrior) originally came to him with rugby players in mind—what a remarkable connection.
The lyric “The goal is just a waypoint, never the end” stirs the hearts of all who take on challenges.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you feel crushed by pressure.
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
This is a song by Sakanaction, a rock band popular for their unique worldview and music.
As you listen, your spirits gradually lift, giving you the motivation to try your best.
I think it’s an encouraging song for people who are pursuing their dreams.
Aim to be a Pokémon MasterMatsumoto Rika
When it comes to anime songs themed around challenge, isn’t this the definitive track? It’s the opening theme of Pokémon, a classic beloved across generations.
It will fire you up as you strive toward your dreams.
Why not take this opportunity to give it a listen?
A Collection of Classic Songs About “Challenge” [For You Who Are Doing Your Best] (21–30)
star performerKing Gnu
King Gnu’s “Senryo Yakusha” is a cool, tricky rock number that powerfully cheers on your challenges.
Chosen as a song for a Docomo commercial, it was released as a double A-side single together with “Sanmon Shosetsu.” A “senryo yakusha” refers to a Kabuki actor in the Edo period who was so popular he earned a thousand ryo a year.
Like such a star, the song conveys the spirit of living this once-in-a-lifetime life boldly and taking on all kinds of challenges.
It tells you it’s okay to be mocked, okay if things don’t go well right away—just keep going with everything you’ve got.
When you see a wall and feel like giving up, this song pushes you to smash through it.