[For those who strive] An encouraging cheer song
I keep working hard every day toward my goal, but the results just aren’t coming…
Do you or anyone around you ever struggle with that feeling?
When things don’t go the way you want despite your best efforts, it’s really tough and can wear you down.
At times like that, how about cheering someone up with a motivational song?
In this article, I’ll introduce lots of powerful tracks that stand by those who are doing their best and lift them up!
I’ve picked songs packed with messages that feel like they’re being sung just for you, so you’re sure to find the perfect one!
Here’s hoping the day comes when the efforts of everyone who’s working hard are rewarded.
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[For those who strive] Encouraging cheer songs (21–30)
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
It’s one of the quintessential uplifting anthems that represent 1990s J-pop.
In the end, no matter what people say, I think many of us find that listening to a classic pep song “gives us energy” and helps us push through.
MayO Okamoto’s hallmark bright, crisp, and refreshing vocals really shine here, and the up-tempo, catchy melody alone can put you in a positive mood.
When you want to cheer someone on with music and you’re unsure what song to choose, this track is highly recommended.
EVERUVERworld
This is a powerful song with a heartfelt message that depicts the desire to win, the struggles, and the spirit of continual challenge.
It’s a track by the six-member rock band UVERworld, known for songs like “D-tecnoLife” and “Colors of the Heart,” and it was chosen as the theme song for TV Tokyo’s “Winter Sports 2026.” TAKUYA∞’s strong vocals and the emotional rock sound come together to give listeners a powerful push forward.
It’s perfect for those moments when you’re taking on a challenge or need to fire yourself up—give it a listen!
[For those who strive] Encouraging cheer songs (31–40)
Ridin’ on Dreamshololive IDOL PROJECT
hololive production’s music project, hololive IDOL PROJECT.
This is a group song they perform, overflowing with dreams and hope.
Released in February 2026, the track’s lyrics and composition were handled by Ryoki Koike.
Imbued with the passion Koike describes as “one of my long-held dreams,” the driving beat and layered vocals will set listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Its emotional sound, brimming with resolve for the future, is sure to give a powerful push to anyone on the verge of a challenge.
Give it a listen when you want to lift your spirits.
Carry OnEXILE
An up-tempo number by EXILE, one of Japan’s leading entertainment groups.
Even when you face hardships that make you want to give up, it carries the message of believing in your dreams, and its bright melody encourages listeners.
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
It’s a masterpiece by Fujifabric that beautifully captures the slightly lonely transition from a late-summer dusk into night.
Shimura’s clear, soaring vocals cast a mysterious kind of spell on the heart.
The lyrics, which sing of the fleeting passage of time, leave you feeling uplifted, as if your spine has gently straightened after listening.
lamplightVaundy
When you feel anxiety and pressure in your daily studies, Vaundy’s music gently stays by your side.
Showcasing his talent from songwriting and composing to video production, this standout track appears on his first album, “strobo,” released in May 2020, and gained attention as the theme song for the drama “Tokyo Love Story.” Its structure—building heat gradually from a quiet opening—mirrors the image of exam-takers who, despite uncertainty, keep moving toward the future.
In 2023, it was also featured in NTT Docomo’s motivational film for exam students, becoming known as an anthem that supports those who are working hard.
Like a light of hope that shines on anxious nights, it’s a song we want exam-takers to hear—one that warms your heart and gives you courage.
frecklesJUDY AND MARY
A signature song by JUDY AND MARY, loved across generations for its clear, translucent vocals and addictive, distinctive melodies.
The lyrics convey a strong determination to rise from a painful heartbreak and move forward, while the up-tempo melody energizes listeners.