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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- 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 perseverance. Recommended popular songs (41–50)
I just can’t give up.GENIC
It’s a heart-pounding anthem that portrays a heroic figure who stands back up, even after falling, crashing into walls, and getting covered in mud.
This rock track by the dance and vocal group GENIC was released in June 2025 and was chosen as the ending theme for the final episode of the TV anime “Catch Me at the Ballpark!” Both the lyrics and the sound convey a strong determination to never give up on one’s dreams, even in the face of setbacks.
It’s a motivational song that gives a push to anyone striving with everything they’ve got.
Masterpiece songs celebrating effort: Recommended popular tracks (51–60)
Even if, even ifRyokushokushakai
It’s a very pure message song that sings, “I’m cheering you on anytime, anywhere.” Created by the pop band Ryokuoushoku Shakai from Aichi, it was released as a digital single in 2021.
It served as the official MBS theme song for the 93rd National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
The soaring horn section and vocals leave a strong impression.
The light rhythm and overall tone make it a delight to listen to.
The sentiment in the lyrics—how seeing you work so hard naturally makes me want to cheer you on—is truly wonderful.
Full-Power BoySukima Suichi
A major-label debut that delivers a youthful message brimming with dreams and hope.
Filled with Sukima Switch’s heartfelt sentiments, this work gently sings of youthful passion and the pure spirit we don’t want to forget even as adults.
Set to a pop melody centered on acoustic guitar, it calls out the importance of living life to the fullest.
Released in April 2004 and featured in an NTT DoCoMo Kansai regional commercial, it gained increased media exposure and became one of the band’s signature songs.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when taking a new step or when you want to remember your beginnings.
When you stand at a crossroads in life, it will surely give you courage.
BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi
An epic song themed around a bow and arrow, it sings of courage and hope.
Showcasing Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive musicality, the track was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Medalist” and was released in January 2025.
Its exhilarating tempo and powerful vocals blend perfectly with the story set in the world of figure skating.
A devoted fan of the original manga, Yonezu reportedly volunteered to create the theme song as soon as he learned of the anime adaptation.
The lyrics capture the struggles, effort, and resolve of those who take on challenges, making it a song that gives a strong push to anyone striving toward their dreams.
Whether crying or laughingKetsumeishi
Listening to this Ketsumeishi song makes me feel like I can overcome any challenge.
Included on the album Ketsunopolis 10, the track is packed with their signature positive message.
It teaches us the importance of accepting ourselves just as we are, in both happy times and hard times.
Released in October 2016, the song was also used as the theme for the drama “6-Second Trajectory: The Melancholy of Fireworks Master Seitaro Mochizuki.” I think it’s one of the most memorable songs in Ketsumeishi’s long career.
This piece is perfect for anyone who wants to keep looking forward and doing their best no matter what difficulties they face.
Give it a listen!
SUGOI MUSICIriño Miyu
This song, for which Miyu Irino wrote both the lyrics and music, centers on self-expression and freedom.
It carries a positive message that any voice or sound can be enjoyed, anywhere.
Included on the best-of album “15,” released in June 2024, it also became the theme song for the live event SUGOI MUSIC.
Since it sings about “taking off the mask on your heart and being your true self,” it’s perfect for moments when you want to take on something new or express who you are.
With its energetic sound and uplifting lyrics, it’s a track that gives you a boost just by listening.
Workin’ HardFuji Kaze
Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze has drawn major attention with several of his releases, including songs featured in car commercials.
In 2023, he created this track as the theme song for the Basketball World Cup.
The lyrics, inspired by his own experience on a school basketball team and by watching games, carry the message that “results aren’t everything—there’s beauty in striving and giving your all.” While some felt that Fujii’s characteristically stylish sound wasn’t suited to a sports theme song, this track can be considered a must-listen: a new kind of anthem that encourages not only athletes but anyone working hard toward their goals.
