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.
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Take the First Step!! Songs That Give You Courage, Songs That Help You Keep Going (1–10)
LazuliMONGOL800×WANIMA
The beautiful lyrics that seem to paint an Okinawan landscape right before your eyes are striking! The melody woven by MONGOL800 and WANIMA is pop and catchy, yet conveys a strong sense of power.
Featured on the split EP “Aiyaya 2,” released in September 2024, this track has earned fervent support from fans of both bands.
Centered on themes like “unchanging love” and “wishes that transcend time,” it’s a song that brings back precious memories we tend to forget in our daily lives.
Its message, which gives you the courage to move forward without yielding to adversity, will gently nudge you as you take a new step forward.
Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO
SHISHAMO is a three-member girls’ band known for their poppy, energetic songs.
Their track “Ashita mo” is included on the 2017 album SHISHAMO 4.
The band is often associated with a bright, bursting energy, and the character in this song is someone who works hard every day and feels worn out—but the positive chorus blows that fatigue away.
It’s an anthem for working people and anyone giving their all each day, packed with moments that many can relate to.
scale (as of a fish or reptile)Hata Motohiro
Known as one of Motohiro Hata’s signature songs, this piece is a poignant love ballad that depicts the frustrations and inner conflicts of romance.
Released in June 2007, it was also featured as the image song for Nippon TV’s summer documentary “Teijisei: Memories of 1461 Days.” The lyrics skillfully capture the feelings of a protagonist who cannot convey their emotions to the person they care about, resonating with many listeners.
Its universal theme of “breaking out of one’s shell and showing one’s true self to another” encourages people standing at life’s crossroads, not only in matters of love.
If you’re struggling with that frustrating feeling of wanting to be honest about your feelings but being unable to take the first step, why not listen to this song and take heart?
[Take the First Step!!] Songs that Give You Courage, Songs that Make You Feel You Can Do It (11–20)
Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā
A song by Sambomaster characterized by its passionate message and powerful rock sound.
Written as the theme for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan,” this track conveys the importance of continuing to strive toward your dreams.
Messages like “Let’s move forward as ourselves” and “We can overcome any hardship” are sure to resonate with listeners.
Released in August 2018, the song is a rousing anthem for those facing challenges and adversity.
It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to start something new but can’t quite take the first step.
Don’t give upZARD
When it comes to cheer-up songs, this track “Makenaide” often comes to mind.
It’s a song you frequently hear on TV shows, too.
Many people say it saved them or gave them strength—it’s a number that has been loved for a long time.
When things don’t go well, you can feel like you’re the only one trying and feel lonely, but this song reminds you that there is someone watching over you, someone who supports your heart.
It encourages you to stay positive and think, “I’ll try a little harder.”
Before the departureWANIMA
This is the song I especially want new graduates and young employees to hear! When you’re not used to work and things aren’t going well, or when you’ve made a big mistake, it’s easy to get discouraged and think, “Am I just not capable enough?” or “Why can’t I do this right?” In times like that, this song will gently stay by your side and cheer you on.
Reading the lyrics, packed with the message “Get back up again and keep challenging yourself!!,” will make you feel like you can give it another try.
Let’s give it a tryWANIMA
When it comes to energizing songs, no one fits the bill better than WANIMA—they’re practically synonymous with the genre.
They’re a band loved by people of all ages.
You’ve probably heard their song “Yatte Minayo (Try It)” often as the theme for the mobile carrier au’s commercials.
When you’re about to start something new or take on a challenging task, you feel both excitement and just as much anxiety, right? This song gives you a push—just like its title says, “Try it”—supporting those mixed feelings and encouraging you to take the leap.