Encouraging songs: timeless masterpieces that resonate with the heart, recommended popular tracks

SignalWANIMA

WANIMA “Signal” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A song filled with courage and hope that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze! It features a driving, fast-paced sound and uplifting lyrics, carrying the message: “Even if we’re unfinished, let’s keep challenging ourselves.” Included on the January 2018 album “Everybody!!,” it was performed with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds on the NHK special program “18-sai Matsuri.” It was also used as the commercial song for Lotte Ice “Sou.” This is a track that gives a push to young people standing at life’s crossroads, such as during entrance exams or job hunting.

All the more reason to listen when you’re struggling with worries or anxiety—you’re sure to find courage.

Let’s smileyonige

Waraou

This is a song that makes you feel happy, as if your luck might improve just by listening to it.

Since it was used as the CM song for au’s “Santaro Series,” which aired from December 2017, many of you have probably heard it.

This work is a yonige-style cheer song that combines the kindness of saying you don’t have to force a smile with the strength to keep looking forward.

Based on an American folk song, its familiar melody gently soaks into the heart.

When you’re feeling down or low on energy, it will quietly give you a nudge forward—a little charm to carry with you.

Wild at Heartarashi

ARASHI – Wild at Heart [Official Music Video]

This is the song that gives me courage when I’m feeling down or low on energy.

Its powerful message—life only happens once, so let’s laugh, cry, and move forward with everything we’ve got; let’s walk our own path without being bound by rules made by someone else—rings in the heart over a bright rock sound.

Released in March 2012, it’s also well known as the theme song for the drama Lucky Seven starring Jun Matsumoto.

With first-week sales of 550,000 copies, it’s a classic that has energized many people.

When you want to give something your all, this lucky song gives you a gentle push forward.

single-minded; earnest; wholehearted; dedicatedSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Hitamuki” Music Video (TV Anime “My Hero Academia” Season 6 Opening Theme)

This is a song by SUPER BEAVER that teaches the importance of believing in yourself and steadily moving forward.

The lyrics—“Even when your heart is about to break, take just one more step”—spur you on and give courage to anyone taking on a challenge.

Released in November 2022, the track was chosen as the opening theme for Season 6 of the TV anime My Hero Academia.

The heroes’ determination to hold onto hope even in desperate situations perfectly aligns with the song’s powerful message.

When you hit a wall and feel like giving up, why not let this song give you courage, trust in your resolve, and take the leap?

BelieveGReeeeN

GReeeeN × Ryosuke Irie “Believe”

It is a cheer song that gently gives a push to those walking toward their dreams.

It sings of the strength to believe in oneself and the importance of not giving up, offering the courage to keep taking on challenges.

The refreshing melodies and powerful vocals woven by GReeeeN resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2015, the song was selected as the campaign song for the Japanese Red Cross Society’s “20-Year-Old Blood Donation, FY2015” campaign, and it drew major attention when figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu appeared in the advertisements.

It is also included on the albums “C, D desu to!?” and “En,” serving as a source of support for those striving toward their goals or about to take a new step forward.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Endless Journey / Mr.Children (Cover)

There are times in life when we feel lost or anxious and come to a halt.

But facing difficulties can become a wonderful life experience.

With that sentiment, Mr.Children released a song in October 1998.

Over a grand structure exceeding seven minutes, it powerfully and energetically sings of the wonder of living and the courage to take on challenges.

The song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” selling 516,000 copies in its first week and achieving an astonishing hit with over 1.07 million copies in total single sales.

It is a masterpiece that resonates deeply with those about to take a new step in life, those striving toward their dreams and goals, and those searching for their own path.

Stand Out Fit InONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK: Stand Out Fit In [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

This is a track whose passionate message in the lyrics resonates deeply.

Released in November 2018 and included on the album “Eye of the Storm,” it was also featured as the song for Honda’s global campaign “Go, Vantage Point.” Singing about the importance of staying true to yourself while adapting to society, this piece has become emblematic of ONE OK ROCK’s new musical direction.

It’s an anthem to play when you feel overwhelmed by peer pressure or on the verge of losing yourself—one that will surely give you a gentle push forward.