Take the first step!! Songs that give you courage, songs that make you persevere when you listen

A March for Youchesu maika

To you who feel lost and about to stop: 'A March for You' by Chesmaika

It’s a song whose forward-looking message, filled with hope and courage, truly resonates.

Its warm lyrics and powerful, uplifting melody stand out, offering comfort to those who feel uncertainty or anxiety in their daily lives and challenges.

It compassionately addresses the worries of people living today—wanting recognition, pushing themselves too hard, or lacking confidence in their choices—while brimming with kindness that values each person’s own pace.

Written and composed by Chessmaica’s Tiiga in September 2017 and released on YouTube, this piece is perfect for times when you feel lost or when you want to encourage someone important to you.

Be the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves.berii guddoman

Berry Goodman “Become the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves” Music Video (NHK ‘Minna no Uta’ December 2024–January 2025)

A powerful anthem that finds beauty in staying out of the spotlight.

It carries gratitude for everyone who offers support, the strength to keep going even when unnoticed efforts draw no attention, and a wish to become someone who nourishes another’s heart.

Written for NHK’s “Minna no Uta” broadcast from December 2024 to January 2025, the song is included on the album “Thank You.” Inspired by the words of Tomoshige Yamashita, honorary manager of the Seiryo High School baseball team, its weight and heartfelt message have been soothing many listeners.

When you feel your efforts aren’t rewarded, or when you’re on the verge of losing your sense of purpose, this song will gently stay by your side and give you courage.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

A passionate cheer song crafted by Kenshi Yonezu.

Its melody brims with a headlong rush, like the instant an arrow is loosed, and it vividly portrays protagonists who keep moving toward their dreams even after experiencing setbacks.

A piece that also captivated live audiences, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.

The lyrics, evoking the bonds of characters who support each other like a bow and arrow, and the dynamic sound together give listeners the courage to overcome the doubts and uncertainties everyone carries.

When your resolve to strive toward your goals starts to waver, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to take a new step forward.

The Zero Sense10-FEET

10-FEET – The Zero Sense (Ending Theme Song of the Film 'THE FIRST SLAM DUNK')

Created as the ending theme song for the film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, this track expresses the passion of pursuing dreams and the resolve to face hardships, all through the theme of basketball.

Its poetic lyrics skillfully weave in basketball terminology, and the signature high-energy rock sound of 10-FEET blends perfectly to heighten the film’s climax.

In December 2022, it was included on the album Collins and garnered major attention as the movie’s ending theme.

Symbolically portraying the doubts and traps players confront, the song vividly depicts the strength to overcome them and achieve one’s goals.

It’s a perfect addition to your playlist when you want to boost motivation during training or strengthen both mind and body.

REVIVERMY FIRST STORY

MY FIRST STORY – REVIVER – Official Music Video

A powerful rock number packed with messages of rebirth and self-affirmation! Included on MY FIRST STORY’s album “ALL LEAD TRACKS,” released in July 2017, it was chosen as the theme song for Part 3 of the smartphone RPG “Hortensia Saga: Aoi no Kishidan.” With its driving melodies and grand sound, it expresses the courage to face adversity and the resolve to rise again.

Even if you’re reborn, your convictions remain unchanged—this song embodies the determination to live true to yourself.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you hit a wall, when you feel like you’re losing yourself, or when you need to rally your spirit.

As many times as you likeCrystal Kay

Insert song from the drama “Otona Joshi” – Crystal Kay “Nando Demo” (streaming starts 11/4) – [Filmed on the drama set! The trending cat “Chikuwa” also appears!]

This is a hit song by the popular female artist Crystal Kay.

It also gained popularity for being featured as an insert song in the drama “Otona Joshi,” starring Ryoko Shinohara.

When you look back on your life, there may be many parts that don’t match your ideals.

Isn’t this the kind of uplifting song you’d want to listen to at such times?

progresskōkua

Shikao Suga – progress with lyrics, high pitch, high quality

This is a song by kōkua, the music group led by Shikao Suga.

It’s well-known as the theme song for “Professional: Shigotono Ryuugi” (Professionals: The Way of Work).

Many people probably remember it together with the content of the show.

It’s a quintessential anthem that cheers on people who are doing their best—a representative “song of encouragement” for life.