Take the first step!! Songs that give you courage, songs that make you persevere when you listen
When it comes to work, study, relationships, or love, sometimes you just can’t find the courage to take that first step.
Many of us struggle to be proactive because past failures and bitter experiences come flooding back.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs that will fill you with courage just by listening to them.
We’ve gathered tracks that sing about a variety of situations, so you’re sure to find one that fits exactly where you are right now.
When the moment matters, may your favorite music give you strength.
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- Songs that make you feel positive when you listen. Top recommended cheer and positive tracks.
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- [Hype Songs] A must-listen for athletes and sports lovers! A curated selection of tracks that boost motivation
- Anthems of Challenge: Uplifting Songs That Cheer You On to Take the Leap
- A song that encourages you just by listening
- Job-change anthems: inspiring and popular songs that give you courage
- [Deeply Moving] A Tear-Jerking Cheer Song: Popular Inspirational Anthems That Resonate with the Heart
- [Cheering Song] Do Your Best! A Track with a Passionate Message
- [For those doing their best] A collection of motivational cheer songs
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- [Cheer-Up Songs Special] Songs that give you courage when you're feeling down. Encouraging tracks.
- An uplifting song with great lyrics. A wonderful, memorable message that stays with your heart.
Take the First Step!! Songs That Give You Courage, Songs That Make You Try Your Best (101–110)
WINNERYoshii Kazuya
Kazuya Yoshii is a singer-songwriter who serves as the vocalist and main composer of THE YELLOW MONKEY.
His sixth single, “WINNER,” which was used as the theme song for the Japanese-dubbed version of the film GOAL! 2, is memorable for its emotional vocals carried by driving guitar strums.
Its message—urging you to keep moving forward no matter the difficulties—can give courage to anyone heading into an important battle.
It’s a fiery rock tune that reminds you of the importance of facing challenges head-on.
Gate of GloryHirai Dai
Singer-songwriter Dai Hirai, who has gained popularity especially among younger generations with his acoustic sound rooted in surf music.
His 38th digital-only single, “Eikou no Tobira,” written as a support song for summer high school baseball, is a soothing number where a gentle vocal rides a pleasant beat to calm the heart.
Its message—that what matters isn’t just winning or losing in this very moment—reminds us of the importance of taking on challenges themselves.
An emotional pop tune whose organic ensemble stays close to the heart.
Start over!Sakurazaka46
Even after changing their name from Keyakizaka46, Sakurazaka46 has continued its explosive surge forward.
The way they sprint down a completely different path from the other Sakamichi groups seems to embody the concept of “the kind of woman girls aspire to be.” A track packed to the brim with that unmistakable coolness is “Start over!” Its words slice into and provoke the listener, asking, “Do you have a dream?” and “Are you really giving it your all?”—a testament to lyricist Yasushi Akimoto’s power.
The lyrics may feel a bit daunting, but paradoxically, the song carries a cheering message: “You can push yourself further.” The choreography incorporating contemporary dance is superb—be sure to check out the music video too!
Go your wayRyokushokushakai
“Michi o Yuke” is a song Ryokuoushoku Shakai wrote specifically for the drama First Penguin.
It carries a message of boldly diving into an uncertain future and unknown worlds without fear.
Built on a rock-driven, fast-paced melody, it blends hip-hop-style call-and-response shouts with jazz-tinged piano tones to create a sound unlike anything before.
Find out what kind of track it turned into by giving it a listen yourself.
AlrightNishino Kana
A warm, encouraging song whose soft yet powerful vocals stay close to your heart.
Released by Kana Nishino in June 2011, it’s included on the album “Thank you, Love.” The lyrics, imbued with Nishino’s wish to cheer on those who are doing their best, deliver a message of support to “you,” who keep running straight ahead.
It’s a song that gently gives you a push on the back, urging you to keep facing forward and moving on, even in hard or sad times without giving up.
It’s a track we especially hope those striving toward their dreams and goals will listen to.
[Take the First Step!!] Songs that give you courage, songs that make you try harder (111–120)
Freedom10-FEET
This song “Freedom,” included on 10-FEET’s 2005 album “4REST,” is a familiar favorite among fans.
It always fires up the crowd at live shows with unified, energetic jumping.
It’s a straight-up, powerful boost of courage that makes you think, “Alright, I’ll give it my all again tomorrow.”
HappinessAI
AI, a singer born in the United States, has released many cool songs with lyrics that say the kinds of things that are hard to express directly.
One of them is “Happiness.” Released in 2011, it’s also well-known as a cola commercial song.
AI’s husky, soulful vocals are on full display—bright, strong, and empowering.
The lyrics will surely lift your spirits and make you feel your own worth.
Let’s keep moving forward toward what we truly want to do.
