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 Make You Try Your Best (141–150)
Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-member band with two men and two women.
Their 2020 release “Mela!” is a hit song that can be considered their signature track.
It was also used in a commercial and for a certain project on an information program.
The song is included on the album SINGALONG.
Centered on the feminine yet powerful vocals of Haruko Nagaya, the track unfolds with momentum.
Bolstered by harmonies and brass, just the sound alone feels like a push on your back.
The lyrics convey a strength to charge forward together with your companions.
It’s a song that can sweep away negative feelings in an instant.
Set SailBE:FIRST

Released digitally in February 2024, this BE:FIRST track is a collaboration song with the ONE PIECE CARD GAME.
It celebrates the courage to chase your dreams and the importance of having companions by your side.
Lyrics by RYUHEI and SHUNTO use card game–inspired wording to create a special touch.
It’s a powerful push for anyone overcoming hardships and pursuing their dreams.
If you’re about to take a new step, this is a song you should definitely hear.
Together with BE:FIRST, you’ll surely find the courage to set sail toward your dreams.
sunrise,sunshineSMAP

This song is included on SMAP’s 15th album, SMAP 016/MIJ, released in 2003.
It opens with SMAP’s lively rap that still makes their disbandment feel all the more regrettable.
While a close listen reveals it to be a love song, it evokes something beyond just romance.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

This song, which delivers a message filled with hope and courage, is GReeeeN’s major-label debut, released in January 2007.
It’s an encouragement anthem that stands beside those facing life’s hardships.
The simple yet powerful melody blends perfectly with the relatable lyrics, giving listeners the courage to take a step toward the future.
When you need the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to face forward.
Song of BeginningsOhashi Takuya

An encouraging song with a warm, gentle melody that resonates in the heart.
This classic by Takuya Ohashi walks alongside those trying to take a fresh first step and lights the path they should follow.
The lyrics, which give you the courage to move forward, convey the importance of growing in your own way.
Released in February 2008 and used as a campaign song by U-Can, the track reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The music video features Aoi Yoshikura, visually expressing the feelings of someone about to take a new step.
Widely embraced as a song that gives a push when starting a new chapter in life—be it entering a new school, getting a job, or changing careers—it has earned the support of many.
Same ThingHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino brings us a song imbued with the resolve to lovingly embrace the contradictions and absurdities of emotion.
It’s an ambitious work created in collaboration with the UK band Superorganism, featuring English lyrics.
Set to a sleek electropop sound, it paints a worldview where rainy days and sunny days, hatred and love—all hold equal value.
Released in October 2019, it impressively reached No.
1 on the Oricon Digital Albums chart.
Its bold, modern reinterpretation of the traditional concept of wabi-sabi also drew attention.
This is a piece that stays by your side when you feel stuck or face unreasonable circumstances, supporting you as you try to keep moving forward in everyday life.
On a night when the stars twinkleBiSH

“Hoshi ga Matataku Yoru ni,” one of BiSH’s signature songs, is beloved by people of all genders as a punk band without instruments.
The track is included on their first indie album, “Brand-new idol SHiT,” released in 2015.
In contrast to their cute appearance, the lyrics are provocative—an aspect that’s part of their appeal and strikes a deep chord.
Life is full of interpersonal struggles, but this song can help you blow off steam and reaffirm your true self.



