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)
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.
CYANFurederikku
This piece was written as the theme song for an animated film depicting the youthful passion for making things.
Its driving sound and lyrics that convey a determination to move forward while carrying both hopes and anxieties for the future are striking.
Released in June 2024 and included on the film’s soundtrack, the song features a characteristically Frederic-like light arrangement with crisp, satisfying guitar cutting.
Its message—to keep pushing ahead even while struggling—makes it perfect for times when you want to give it your all.
Our TomorrowElefanto Kashimashi
It’s a passionate yet gentle song by Elephant Kashimashi that feels like looking back on one’s life and sensing the bonds with one’s companions.
The fresh sound seems to send your feelings far into the distance, and the fervent vocals that stir the heart are striking.
Throughout the song, it conveys a message of pressing forward with determination, and it feels as if it’s both cheering on those around you and speaking to your own heart.
It’s a song that seems to tell you that when you feel anxious about moving ahead, it’s also important to look back on your life.
from hereSixTONES
Even if life is ordinary, let’s keep looking forward and moving ahead without giving up.
That passionate message stands out in SixTONES’ track.
Released in June 2023, the song fuses hip-hop and breakbeats into a powerful sound, over which all six members deliver heartfelt rap verses.
Chosen as the theme song for the NTV Sunday drama “However, There Is Passion,” it topped the Oricon weekly singles chart.
The music video became a massive hit, surpassing 100 million views in September 2023.
When you feel like stopping in front of a wall, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to take a new step.
FateOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism is a four-piece band that has performed on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.
Their approachable, pop-leaning sound has surely captivated everyone.
“Shukumei” is a track released in 2019.
It was chosen as the theme song for the documentary program Nettou Koshien, which covers the National High School Baseball Championship.
As a song that colored the world of sports, the surge of power from the intro is extraordinary.
It empathizes with the conflicts in your heart while giving you a strong push forward.
Take the First Step!! Songs That Give You Courage and Keep You Going (41–50)
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.