[J-Pop Roundup] Recharge your spirits with stylish cheering songs!
“This song gives me energy!” I’m sure many of you have felt that way.
Music has a mysterious power—it lifts our spirits and gives us the courage to take a new step forward.
In this article, we’ve put together a collection of stylish Japanese “cheer-up” songs.
From pop to rock and more, we’ve picked tracks that will give you a boost.
It’s a playlist perfect for jogging, commuting, or right before an important match!
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[Japanese Music Compilation] Recharge Your Energy with Stylish Cheer Songs! (1–10)
IdeaHoshino Gen
This is a masterpiece by Gen Hoshino that I especially want you to listen to when you’re feeling a bit low.
Released in August 2018, the song was used as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Half, Blue.” Its structure is captivating, unfolding from a buoyant, marimba-based intro into a gentle first verse.
His warm voice gives you a soft push forward.
The positive worldview—one that seems to turn even the sound of rain into song—will surely lighten your heart, whether on your commute to work or school, or as you stand before an important challenge.
LOSERYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, a hugely popular singer-songwriter.
When this work was released, many people were probably surprised by the contemporary dance he showcased in the music video.
The edgy sound infused with hip-hop really pumps you up.
It carries a powerful message: if that’s the case, even a howl is fine—embrace it, and keep rolling forward even if it looks clumsy.
It gives you the courage to charge ahead with nothing holding you back.
Released in September 2016 as a double A-side single with “Number Nine,” it was also featured in 2018 as the song for a Honda JADE commercial.
It’s a rock tune you’ll want to listen to when you feel like you’re about to break or when you’re ready to take a new step.
Because there’s no end to itFuji Kaze
Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze is known for his unique style that fuses diverse musical elements such as jazz and R&B.
This track, included on his debut album “HELP EVER HURT NEVER,” released in May 2020, is perfect for those moments when you find yourself stuck over the past or the future.
Set to a cool electronic sound, it acknowledges that life isn’t easy while conveying a strong resolve that the only option is to fight here and now.
The repeated lyrics and breathy vocals etch that determination deeply into the listener’s heart.
It’s sure to turn the anxiety you feel before taking a new step into the power to move forward!
[Japanese Pop Roundup] Recharge Your Spirits with Stylish Cheer Songs! (11–20)
OutsiderAwesome City Club
When you want to stay true to yourself, this is the Awesome City Club song to play.
Released in July 2015 and included on their second album, “Awesome City Tracks 2,” it features a crisp, upbeat groove with sharp guitar cutting and a stylish, urban interplay between male and female twin vocals.
The song’s theme is the importance of following the path you believe in.
That powerful message reportedly became a major turning point for the band.
It was also chosen as the theme song for Akita Asahi Broadcasting’s “Sata Navi!” and drew considerable attention.
If you listen to it when you’re taking a new step forward or feeling a bit unsure, it just might give you the courage you need.
99 Steps feat. Kohjiya, Hana HopeSTUTS
This refreshing and stylish track produced by beatmaker STUTS is a must-listen! Released in May 2025, it was chosen as the official song for Pocari Sweat’s commercial “You Are Surely Someone’s Sun.” Built on STUTS’s signature hip-hop foundation with a smooth, feel-good beat, the unique styles of rapper Kohjiya and singer Hana Hope come together to create something truly emotional.
This song feels like it gives courage to those who are hesitating just one step before the goal, helping them take that final step forward.
It’s the ultimate anthem to cheer you on and give you a push toward your goals!
Eye to EyeSuchmos
Suchmos is a rock band that captivates listeners with their sophisticated groove.
Their sound, blending rock, jazz, and soul, is truly one of a kind.
This track sings of a strong resolve to move forward with one’s heart and pride.
Its message about the importance of believing in yourself resonates deeply, carried by a minimal yet high-energy ensemble.
It also overlaps with the band’s own resurgence, likely giving listeners a powerful push forward.
It’s included on the EP “Sunburst,” released in July 2025.
Perfect for getting fired up on your commute or psyching yourself up before a big moment.
An emotional anthem of encouragement, defined by a cool, urban sound.
Easy Breezychelmico
The high-speed beat and addictive back-and-forth rap make it a joy to listen to.
It’s a track by chelmico, the female rap duo of Rachel and Mamiko, released as a single in January 2020.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!, it became a big talking point alongside its inventive animation.
The straightforward message—“Don’t worry about others; stay true to what you love”—gives a powerful push to anyone who hears it.
Centered on hip-hop with a playful sound, it’s a stylish pep song that blows away the blues and fills you with energy.
It’s also included on the album maze.