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 (31–40)
We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā
Sambomaster is a band loved by many for their passionate, heart-stirring message songs.
Their 14th single, “Dekikkonai wo Yaranakucha,” released in 2010, could well be called one of their signature tracks, right? The A and B sections gently encourage you as if speaking softly, and then the chorus explodes, like they’re vigorously patting you on the back—a real pick-me-up number.
When you’re anxious, feeling down, or thinking, “I can’t do this anymore,” give it a listen.
Sambomaster will lift you up and push you forward with all their might.
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu
Kyu Sakamoto’s “Ue o Muite Arukou,” known and loved overseas under the title “SUKIYAKI,” is one of Japan’s most iconic uplifting songs.
It’s such a well-known, massive hit that many people find they can sing it without ever having formally learned it.
Loved across time and generations, the song has been covered by numerous artists not only in Japan but around the world.
Beloved to that extent, it’s simple yet profoundly moving.
It’s a song that lightens the haze and anxiety in your heart.
Chaos reaches its peakUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
It’s a song by UNISON SQUARE GARDEN that stirs up the power to carve out the future.
The mix of a driving, forward-leaning sense of speed with developments that suddenly stoke anxiety is striking.
You could call it a chaotic progression—just like the title—where the strength to step forward and the inner turmoil are expressed at the same time.
It was also used as the opening theme for the anime Blue Lock, and its unique worldview—sharing the work’s themes—with a sense of momentum that still carries a hint of unease makes it a compelling track.
Make It Out AliveONE OK ROCK
ONE OK ROCK is a four-piece rock band whose commanding, rock-solid vocals and modern rock sound—while rooted in old-school traditions—have earned them high praise both in Japan and overseas.
Their 11th digital-only single, “Make It Out Alive,” chosen as a tie-in track for the smartphone app Monster Hunter Now, opens with powerful vocals and a four-on-the-floor beat that evokes a sense of forward momentum.
Its heavy rock sound blasts away the morning blues and amps you up for your commute to work or school.
With cool English lyrics that deliver a message of pushing forward without giving up, it’s a rock tune that gives you the courage to rise again.
I don’t want to get out of my futon.Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai
Many people probably find it tough to get out of bed in the morning.
That’s why I’d like to introduce “I Don’t Want to Get Out of the Futon.” It’s a song released by Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai and is also well known as a McDonald’s commercial tune.
The lyrics vividly portray the feeling of being unable to leave the futon, listing a variety of reasons that many listeners will surely relate to.
And at the very end, the song gives you a firm push to help you get out of bed.
Listening to it in the morning might just give you the motivation you need.
Take the First Step!! Songs That Give You Courage and Keep You Going (41–50)
REALiZELiSA
“REALiZE,” the theme song for the Japanese-dubbed version of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
It’s a straightforward rock tune that highlights LiSA’s sharp, powerful vocals.
The high-speed number vividly conjures images of Spider-Man soaring through the air, and just listening to it feels like a great way to blow off steam.
The guitar riffs ringing to the rhythm, the hefty, dynamic sound, and the catchy melody all feel great—and it’s perfect for karaoke, too!
swim04 Limited Sazabys
This is a song by a band hugely popular especially among rock kids, commonly known as Four Limi.
The band is characterized by vocalist GEN’s androgynous high-tone voice, and their skills are impeccable—seriously cool! I think their youthful, straightforward message will give you courage.