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
- Club Activity Youth Songs: Motivational Anthems and Timeless Tracks of Memories with Teammates
- 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.
- For those chasing dreams and goals! Support songs recommended for Gen Z
- [Moving] Tear-jerking cheer song. A roundup of popular motivational 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 hard work. Recommended popular songs (1–10)
Shineieiri reo
This is her second single, released in 2012.
She wrote both the lyrics and the music herself.
Leo Ieiri’s crisp, dignified vocals amplify the power of the lyrics even more.
There’s something especially persuasive about her singing.
Maybe that aura comes from the fact that, despite strong opposition from her parents, she moved to Tokyo alone at 16 and kept working toward her musical dream.
When you’re working hard, there are moments of doubt, but this song gives you a positive message about overcoming them with unwavering conviction—and with another version of yourself by your side.
Endless JourneyMr.Children
This is one of Mr.Children’s signature songs, depicting life as an endless journey.
It sings of the search for one’s ideal self and the courage to face hardships, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in October 1998, it was also used as the theme song for a Fuji TV drama.
Despite running over seven minutes, it’s full of appeal that never wears thin.
It’s especially recommended for those who feel doubt or anxiety while striving toward their goals.
Mr.Children’s warm vocals and powerful performance are sure to gently nudge you forward.
light standberii guddoman
The song title “Right-Field Stands” refers to the right-field bleachers at a baseball stadium.
The lyrics tell the story of boys who devote themselves to baseball, and the refreshing song moves everyone who listens.
Apart from the lyrics, there’s a saying, “No genius surpasses hard work,” and effort itself is something beautiful.
The romantic sound design perfectly matches the world of these lyrics.
It’s a track you’ll want to share with someone.
Masterpieces that sing about perseverance. Recommended popular songs (11–20)
Dream FighterPerfume
A divine song that has continued to support Perfume.
It’s a fan favorite, showcasing the full brilliance of producer Yasutaka Nakata’s talent.
The lyrics, which vow to keep striving for the highest peak, are bright and positive.
And since it’s titled “Dream Fighter,” someone who fights toward their dreams, there’s no way Perfume wouldn’t shine.
It’s a song I recommend to everyone working toward a goal!
possibilitySambomasutā
It’s the lead track from the 2015 album “Sambomaster to Kimi.” It also became the theme song for the film “Biri Gyaru” (Flying Colors), based on the true story of a “gyaru” who was at the bottom of her class but studied like crazy and got accepted to Keio University on her first try.
That’s why I think this song especially resonates with exam takers and students.
Just deciding to start something new is exciting, isn’t it? The daily grind of working toward what you want to do.
There are times when things don’t go well and times when it’s tough, but these days many people succeed by breaking through the barrier of age.
It’s never too late to start, no matter the era.
Sambomaster’s rock ’n’ roll sound gives you the power to believe in your own potential!
Sense of Wondersumika
The catchy sound feels bright and wonderful! It’s a song by sumika, a pop-rock band from Kanagawa Prefecture, released as a single in 2020.
Since it was used in a commercial, many of you may have heard it.
The positive message—“You can absolutely become the person you want to be!”—is striking.
It has the power to lift up a downcast face and heart.
The lively arrangement matches the lyrics and vocals perfectly! It’s an uplifting track that makes you want to enjoy the effort you put in.
GloriousBE:FIRST
A moving song themed around effort and challenge has been born.
This work from BE:FIRST powerfully portrays people advancing toward their dreams.
The lyrics capture the sight of pressing forward even while covered in mud, the strength to overcome setbacks, and the hope for a future where we shine together.
Released digitally in November 2023, the song was created as the support anthem for the 102nd All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
It’s a track that gives a push to young people who keep taking on challenges and fills them with courage.
It’s the perfect song for those striving to realize their dreams or moving toward their goals together with their teammates.