Upbeat songs. Recommended feel-good tracks.

The EntertainerScott Joplin

The Sting Theme (Joplin – The Entertainer)

A ragtime piece for piano composed in 1902.

It was used as the theme for the film The Sting, sparking a ragtime revival.

The piece is characterized by a light, clean rhythmic melody.

It also brings to mind the lively spirit of The Sting.

Ladybug Sambacherisshu

Ladybug Samba Cherish Cherish

Speaking of samba, it’s Brazilian music—famous as the music of Carnival.

It conjures an image of lively music that goes hand in hand with dancing.

One of the classic wedding songs is Cherish’s “Tentōmushi no Samba” (“Ladybug Samba”), a lively track released on July 5, 1993, that became a hit.

Romanian Folk DancesBartók Béla

Bartók / Romanian Folk Dances No. 6 “Fast Dance” Pf. Yuko Ishimoto

A dance for piano, a piece meant for dancing.

In this set of Romanian Dances, No.

6 in particular is lively and energetic.

With its light, quick rhythm, you’d have to be quite energetic to dance to it.

I’ve heard it was also used on the TV show “Before After.”

grandchildŌizumi Itsurō

Itsuro Oizumi / Mago (Grandchild)

Isn’t the adorable little child’s voice at the beginning irresistible for those who have grandchildren? Even if you don’t, it’s still a very cute child’s voice.

I’ve never had grandchildren myself, so it’s hard to vividly imagine just how adorable they are, but this is a lively song for grandpa and grandma.

365 Steps MarchSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji – 365-Step March (1968)

No matter who listens to it, I don’t think anyone would say this song isn’t upbeat.

I’ve heard that Kiyoko Suizenji, nicknamed “Cheetah,” who sings it, has a very lively personality.

Released in 1968, the song became a million-seller.

Apparently, she initially refused to sing it.

Even so, she performs it energetically.

Happy BirthdayNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “Happy Birthday”

Just listening to it will put a smile on your face—this is a high-energy track brimming with positivity.

Kana Nishino’s clear, translucent vocals resonate deep in the heart.

Released in May 2014, this piece is a bright, warm message song themed around birthdays.

The lyrics convey heartfelt gratitude, like “I’m truly glad I met you.” It’s perfect not only for a loved one’s birthday, but also for fun times with friends or whenever you need a lift in everyday life.

The more you listen, the more this song lets you feel the joy and happiness of life.

togetherEXILE

Together

I used to sing this early EXILE song a lot at karaoke.

It seems some of today’s middle and high schoolers don’t know EXILE from back then.

The current EXILE is cool too, but I want people to listen to their older stuff as well.

The refreshing melody and the music video are really uplifting.