Cheer-up songs recommended for people in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese hits

Embracing SummerTUBE

TUBE “Embrace the Summer” MUSIC VIDEO

With a sound that evokes clear blue skies and a shining sun, this is a quintessential summer song from TUBE.

It conveys a love so intense it keeps you awake at night, expressed through passionate lyrics and melody.

The protagonist’s once-in-a-lifetime feelings are sure to stir memories of bittersweet love that many have experienced.

Released in May 1994, this smash hit topped the Oricon charts and sold 940,000 copies.

It was also featured in a Toyota Corolla Ceres commercial and has become a karaoke staple loved by many.

It’s the perfect track to share with close friends or colleagues as you reminisce and look back together on life’s milestones.

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA

au Santaro TV commercial: “Let’s Try It” edition (60 seconds + making-of footage)

It’s a song characterized by WANIMA’s powerful sound and positive lyrics! It’s a track that gives listeners motivation and energy.

Released in January 2018, it was also used as the theme song for au’s popular “Santaro” commercial series.

Since it’s an arrangement of the children’s song “Picnic,” many people may find it familiar.

The phrase “Let’s try what we’ve wanted to do” is repeated in the lyrics, emphasizing the importance of taking on challenges.

It’s recommended for times when you want to feel positive—whether you’re struggling with work or relationships, or looking to try something new.

SAMURAI DRIVEhitomi

hitomi / SAMURAI DRIVE（Short Ver.）

“SAMURAI DRIVE” is an uplifting anthem perfect for people in their 50s, blending powerful vocals with a rock edge.

Hitomi’s commanding voice and the driving guitar sound spark courage, making it an ideal track for those in their 50s facing work-related struggles.

The lyrics feel like raising a signal flare for moving forward, etching hope for the future into listeners’ hearts.

Originally a song by Cune, its popularity grew for both artists through Hitomi’s cover.

It works great as a signature song at milestone events like graduation ceremonies, and its fast-paced chorus can be enjoyed across generations.

You won’t tire of it no matter how many times you listen—its stimulating energy keeps radiating.

Why not weave this song into your daily life?

YELLikimonogakari

YELL – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

With a surge of emotion, this song gives you the courage to take a step toward the future.

Known as one of Ikimonogakari’s signature tracks, it was released in September 2009.

It was also used as the required piece for NHK’s National School Music Competition, leaving a deep imprint on many hearts.

By reinterpreting “goodbye” as a word for new beginnings, it serves as an anthem cheering on those setting off toward their individual dreams.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear at graduations and life’s milestones, and for people in their 50s, it’s sure to evoke nostalgia intertwined with memories of their school days.

Listen to this piece, and there’s no doubt it will awaken the passion sleeping within you.

Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

This rock tune celebrating the joy of pure love is a fan favorite that showcases Ulfuls’ musicality to the fullest.

Its lyrics, which candidly express gratitude to a loved one, resonate deeply, and together with its bright, catchy melody, the song lifts listeners’ spirits.

Released in February 1996, it was included on the album “Banzai” and also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Goddess of Victory.” Moreover, it won the Excellence Award at the 38th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a perfect track for getting pumped up at karaoke with friends or for reminiscing about special memories with someone important.

If I can laughUrufuruzu

Ulfuls – If I Can Laugh

The lyrics are encouraging.

It’s a medium-tempo ballad with a good pace, a song that can make you feel both wistful and uplifted.

Many people in their 50s may worry about the future if their lives haven’t turned out the way they hoped, but this song reassures you that if you can laugh at that inner struggle, you’ll be okay.

You are the star.Sazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – You Are the Star [Official Music Video] Short ver.

“Kimi Koso Sutaa da” is a moving cheer song performed by Southern All Stars.

With its refreshing melody and lyrics that feel like a gentle push on your back, just listening to it fills you with courage.

It has also been used as a theme song for high school baseball, making it a nostalgic track for many.

When you listen to it in crucial moments, it stirs a desire to get back up again and again, so it’s a recommended song for people in their 30s as well.

The lyrics also convey a love for one’s hometown, adding to its charm and making you feel supported no matter the situation.

Whether at work or in your hobbies, it’s a song that gives you strength—an iconic cheer anthem you should definitely listen to.