Masterpieces that sing of effort. Recommended popular songs.
Work, studying, club activities, everyday life…
To make anything go well, daily effort is essential.
But even when we know that, it’s hard to keep it up—that’s what makes it difficult!
Everyone has times when they want to try hard but just can’t.
In those moments, how about listening to some wonderful music and giving it one more push?
In this article, I’ll introduce not only songs themed around effort, but also songs that cheer you on as you keep trying.
If you take in the messages woven into the lyrics, I’m sure you’ll be able to keep going.
Take your time and listen to the songs we’re about to introduce.
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- [For those who strive] An encouraging cheer song
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- Anthems of Challenge: Uplifting Songs That Cheer You On to Take the Leap
- Timeless songs that sing of hopes and dreams. Masterpieces that lead those who strive toward the future.
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- [Deeply Moving] A Tear-Jerking Cheer Song: Popular Inspirational Anthems That Resonate with the Heart
- Before a match or when you feel like giving up! Cheer songs to keep you going in club activities
- A song that encourages you just by listening
- A gift to dream-chasers! Songs about dreams and anthems that help make them come true
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- [Today's Cheer Song] To everyone giving it your all! A gem of an inspiring anthem that resonates with the heart
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
Masterpieces that sing of effort. Recommended popular songs (61–70)
Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki
This song is imbued with a warm gaze and deep respect for people who usually remain out of the spotlight.
Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.
It is an ode to unsung heroes who keep making efforts in various places, shining like stars in everyday life.
Released in July 2000, the piece was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s documentary program Project X: Challengers, and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.
It set a record by staying on Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.
It is a song that gives you a powerful push forward in those moments when the pressures of daily life make you want to stop.
No matter how smallwacci
An uplifting song has been born, warmly and gently portraying people who walk on with all their might, even while feeling how hard life can be.
Alongside the friendly melodies woven by the five members of wacci, the courage to face one’s own weaknesses and flaws, and the determination to move forward step by step, are vividly expressed.
Written and composed by Yohei Hashiguchi, the piece speaks to you even in those moments when you feel you’re losing your sense of self, telling you that your efforts have meaning.
It was written as the theme song for the NTV drama “After-School Carte” in October 2024 and is also included on the album “Dressing,” released in January 2025.
It is sure to be cherished as a song that stays close to your heart when you lose your way on the path you chose and come to a halt.
prideGReeeeN
GReeeeN is known for their style packed with passionate messages.
They wrote “pride” as the theme song for Koshien-related programs on the Asahi Broadcasting network.
The song carries the message: “For the sake of who you’ll be tomorrow, give your best today.” The lyrics are crafted to resonate with anyone who’s dedicated to something, not just baseball.
Also, don’t miss the music video created in collaboration with Hayato Sakamoto of the Yomiuri Giants, where he talks about his disciplined approach.
Peter PanYuuri
This is a motivational song about the importance of pursuing your dreams and the courage to stay true to yourself.
Written and composed by Yuuri, the piece carries a powerful message that doesn’t reject growing up, but instead teaches the value of holding on to your convictions no matter your age.
Its fast, driving sound paired with Yuuri’s soaring vocals stirs the listener’s heart.
Released digitally in August 2020, it was also selected as the CM song for DIP Corporation starting in April 2021.
That October, it surpassed 100 million streams and became a popular track included on the album “Ichi.” It’s a karaoke favorite you’ll want to belt out with passion while immersing yourself in the lyrics’ worldview.
For those struggling with their current situation or on the verge of giving up on their dreams, it’s sure to give a gentle push forward.
I want to brag.SUPER BEAVER
This warm mid-tempo ballad carries the wish to become someone a loved one can be proud of, sincerely chronicling effort, setbacks, and a resolve to embrace change.
Written and composed by guitarist Ryota Yanagisawa, its heartfelt melody and powerful message resonate deeply.
Released in October 2020 as the double A-side single “Toppa-kou / Jiman ni Naritai,” it was unveiled as the second single following the band’s return to a major label.
The song was also selected as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP, drawing significant attention from anime fans.
It’s a track that gently supports those who care for someone and those striving toward their goals.
Live beautifullytakane no nadeshiko
Just like LiSA’s songs that skyrocketed in popularity with Demon Slayer, you can feel the passion coming through Takamine no Nadeshiko’s vocals.
This work, their major-label debut single, is a perfect fit for young people giving their all to chase their dreams! The message “Live beautifully” carries their firm resolve and the anticipation for what they’ll achieve next.
The single, released on February 21, 2024, comes in various editions, so fans should definitely check it out.
With HoneyWorks handling sound production, the track is sure to resonate with your heart.
It’s a recommended song for when you’re ready to start a new challenge or when you’re feeling uncertain about something.
breakthroughSUPER BEAVER
SUPER BEAVER is a four-piece rock band that captivates fans with passionate lyrics delivered through straightforward vocals.
Their 13th single, Breakthrough, released as a double A-side with I Want to Be Your Boast, was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP.
The lyrics, which portray a stance of fighting fair and square without tricks, encourage you to enjoy this very moment instead of being fixated solely on winning or losing.
With its driving melodies and tight ensemble that raise the energy, it’s a no-frills, straight-up rock tune.
