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
- [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 (31–40)
WINDING ROADAyaka × Kobukuro
It was released in 2007, yet it still gets used in commercials and ranks on karaoke charts, maintaining steady, enduring popularity.
The lyrics about each of us having our own goal far ahead, out of sight, may be part of the appeal.
You won’t find the exact words “Let’s work hard!” in the song, but the overall vibe radiates a determination to spare no effort in reaching one’s goals.
Starting Line ~ A New BreezeBaba Toshihide
A single song that feels soft and warm, as if it reflects Toshihide Baba’s gentle character.
The sound production was handled by Kobukuro’s Mr.
Kobuchi.
This song was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, wasn’t it? I’m sure you’ll find yourself relating from the very first line.
Days when the shining past comes to mind, when you think you can’t go on anymore yet still can’t give up.
It’s tough to keep doing your best every day, isn’t it? These simple words resonate with those fragile, wavering feelings.
Baba’s tender voice eases the heart, and this wonderful classic seems to softly, kindly nudge forward everyone living in the present.
BELIEVENiziU
It’s a new J-POP song that sings about the importance of facing forward and keeping on going.
NiziU’s energetic vocals and dance performance really shine in this track.
The lyrics, which emphasize believing in yourself and continuing to walk toward your dreams, are sure to give listeners a gentle push forward.
It’s included on their first EP, “RISE UP,” released in July 2024, and was also used as the ending theme for the anime “Tower of God: Return of the Prince.” When you’re working hard toward your goals but not seeing the results you hoped for, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to move forward again!
StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE
This work captivates with its refreshing melody and exhilarating, fast-paced sound.
It delivers a stream of positive messages, punctuated by a brisk tempo and pop-savvy word choices.
Originally released in July 2015, the song gained major attention in 2017 when it was featured in Kao’s “Merit Shampoo” commercial.
Starting life in a new environment can bring anxiety and uncertainty.
That’s exactly when you should listen to this track.
Its wind-in-your-hair sense of exhilaration will fill you with excitement and anticipation.
ImaginationSPYAIR
An emotional rock number that conveys a powerful determination—“I will absolutely become the person I envision!” It’s a track by the rock band SPYAIR, known for hits like “THIS IS HOW WE ROCK,” released in 2014 as their 14th single.
Chosen as the opening theme for the volleyball-themed anime Haikyuu!!, it captures a youthful spirit that matches the story’s atmosphere.
It makes you feel, “The time I’m spending now, this effort, isn’t in vain.”
Masterpieces that sing of perseverance. Recommended popular songs (41–50)
BraveNaoto Intiraymi
When your mind is flooded with the negative thought, “No matter how hard I try, it’s pointless—I won’t gain anything,” this song might become your support.
It’s a track by singer-songwriter Naoto Inti Raymi, released as a single in 2011.
With beautifully resonant strings, it’s an easy-to-listen-to pop song.
You can enjoy it without putting on a brave face.
It leaves you feeling that it’s okay to fail and encourages you to be yourself—so definitely give it a listen.
Be the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves.berii guddoman
Even if you can’t be the main character, you are wonderful just for trying—this heartwarming number sings that message.
It’s a track by BERRY GOODMAN, released digitally in December 2024, written specifically for NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” Based on the words of Tomoshige Yamashita, the honorary manager of the Seiryo High School baseball team, it was created as a cheer song for people who keep striving, and it resonated deeply with many listeners.
It might be the perfect song to send when you want to encourage someone.