[When you’re troubled] A life anthem that stands by your side
Whether in the ordinary days that pass without a second thought or the special ones, isn’t life a series of choices we make every day?
We don’t usually think about it, but once we hesitate and stop to ponder, sometimes it’s hard to find our way out.
We worry about which choice will lead to a better outcome, or whether we’ll fail.
So I’ve picked out some uplifting songs that stay close to a wavering, troubled heart and fill you with courage and strength.
I hope you find a song that fits your heart!
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- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- An irreplaceable masterpiece that conveys the meaning of life and the preciousness of existence. A deeply moving song of encouragement.
[When you're troubled] A life anthem that stands by you (1–10)
StoryAI
According to the AI, the soulful singing voice has its roots in gospel.
This song, “Story,” is a single released in 2005, and its gentle ballad wraps softly around your heart.
There are special days when you just can’t afford to dwell on the hard things—times when you have to keep going.
This is a song I want you to listen to in those moments.
Lines like “Don’t force a smile or push yourself too hard” and “You’re not alone—lean on me anytime” pierce the heart and bring tears to your eyes.
When you listen to this song, it gives you the strength to keep going.
March of 365 StepsNEW!Suizenji Kiyoko
An uplifting song set to a bright marching rhythm that celebrates the importance of taking initiative and moving forward.
Known as one of Kiyoko Suizenji’s signature hits, this single was released in November 1968 and remains popular to this day.
It is also included on the commemorative album released in October 2024, “60th Anniversary of Debut: ‘The Essence of Enka’ ~A Man’s Life~.” In 1991, she self-covered the song as the theme for a TV anime, and it was also chosen as the theme song for a film released in 2011.
Its warm message—that the small steps we take each day will beautifully color our future—resonates all the more deeply with those who have walked a long road in life.
Why not give it a listen when you’re feeling down or need a breather? It will gently give you a push forward.
Before the departureWANIMA
WANIMA always lifts up rock kids with straightforward, fiery lyrics.
Their song “Before the Departure” is packed with WANIMA’s signature vibe—a track that flips negative feelings into something positive.
Released in 2021, it’s the band’s sixth digital single, and it also served as the theme song for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks’ “Fight! Kyushu” campaign.
It’s an uplifting track that ramps up the energy toward the end and pushes you forward.
[When you're troubled] A life cheer song that stands by you (11–20)
Progresskōkua
Isn’t this song one of those that’s almost too famous? It’s widely known as the theme for NHK’s documentary program “Professional: Shigoto no Ryugi” (“Professional: The Way of Work”).
It’s a number that makes you want to speak like a true professional yourself, just like the protagonists who appear on the show.
It’s highly recommended for those moments when you feel like giving up or you’re on the verge of defeat.
It’s a song that helps you face yourself and think, “Maybe I can push a little bit further.”
BeautifulSuperfly
Superfly has many songs that give you courage, thanks to her powerful vocals.
“Beautiful” is another track that hits hard with a strong, forward-looking energy.
Many of you have probably heard it as a tie-in song for dramas or commercials.
If your heart feels hazy or you’re wrestling with doubts, give this song a listen.
By the time it ends, you’ll likely feel more positive—and reassured that you’re fine just the way you are.
I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.Sambomasutā
Sambomaster crafts songs that hit you in the feels by laying straightforward lyrics over punky, pop melodies.
I bet many listeners feel encouraged and energized by this track too.
When life is a string of choices and you’re desperate not to fail, it’s easy to get stuck in your worries.
Listening to this song, Yamaguchi’s lyrics seem to shout, “Don’t give up—you’ve got what it takes to see it through!” and it stirs something fiery from deep within.
It’s a song I recommend when your eyes are fixed on your fears and you can’t believe in your own strength.
Twenty-nine, thirtykuriipuhaipe
This song, “Twenty-Nine, Thirty,” included on the double A-side single released in 2014, is, as the title suggests, a spot-on anthem for those around ages 29 and 30.
It captures the grind of busy days that don’t seem to bring breakthroughs or dramatic changes, yet it’s a realistic, encouraging number about breaking out and taking a step forward.
I especially want people of the same generation, or anyone just getting through each day, to give it a listen.
Even if it’s not something big, it will give you the courage to take a small step and break out of your current shell.