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

A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 'A Tiny Bit of Courage'

A perfect cheer-up song for people in their 50s who feel down because they’re not seeing results at work or in their personal lives is FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ “Chippoke na Yuuki” (“A Tiny Bit of Courage”).

When it was released in 2007, it drew attention, including being used as a movie insert song.

Its relentlessly positive, straightforward lyrics are motivating and energizing, and their heartfelt quality resonates with listeners.

Even when unexpected things like a breakup happen, this wonderful song gives you the courage to keep your head up and move forward step by step without losing heart.

Now more than ever, with its highly message-driven lyrics and familiar, easy-to-sing melody, it’s a track we recommend to anyone in need of encouragement.

Soul RevolutionSuperfly

Superfly 'Tamashii Revolution' Music Video

When you want to pump yourself up with a fiery cheer song, why not listen to this track by Superfly? Released in April 2010, this masterpiece was created as a support song for the FIFA World Cup.

It’s a classic anthem that’s almost always mentioned when introducing sports cheer songs, and the more you listen, the more your fighting spirit surges! When you’re feeling anxious or your motivation dips while working or studying, this song will give you a push—telling you, “Just keep moving forward!” Shiho Ochi’s powerful vocals and strong message are sure to resonate with your heart.

It’s fine.Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Ee nen

A heartwarming song by Ulfuls.

Tortoise Matsumoto’s powerful vocals and the lyrics’ positive message leave a strong impression.

Released in November 2003, this work became their last single from Toshiba EMI.

In the Kansai region, it’s also loved as a song that speaks for Hanshin Tigers fans, and it held the No.

1 spot on FM802’s OSAKAN HOT 100 for nine consecutive weeks.

It’s a track that can lift your spirits when you’re struggling with work or relationships, and it’s perfect for getting the crowd going at karaoke.

Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi

Like the Moon Tonight / Elephant Kashimashi

It’s a deeply moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of passion for the future while gazing into everyday feelings of emptiness and loneliness.

Set against the backdrop of a city at dusk, it portrays the solitude and struggles of people living in an urban landscape, yet conveys a strong will to keep looking forward and moving on.

The soulful vocals unique to Elephant Kashimashi and the melody that resonates with the heart are beautifully in harmony.

Released in July 1997, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” and was also included on the album “Run Toward Tomorrow – Moonlit Songs.” In 2017, it was performed in the band’s first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, winning over even more listeners.

It’s a track that will evoke deep empathy when you feel lost in life or spend a night thinking of someone dear.

YELL ~Yell~Kobukuro

YELL ~A Cheer~ / Kobukuro

This work resonates with the heart through its powerful guitar tones and soaring vocals.

Like buds awaiting the arrival of spring, it sings of hope for a future that blossoms grandly after overcoming hardships.

Released in November 2001, the song became familiar as the ending theme for the TV program “Uchi Kuru!?” and as a Tokyo Marine Nichido commercial song.

It’s the perfect track for a fresh start, gently embracing the mix of anxiety and anticipation that comes with taking a new step toward a dream.

A heartwarming piece that softly encourages those about to take on a big challenge or those waiting for spring after a long winter.

Broken RadioTokunaga Hideaki

Hideaki Tokunaga – The Broken Radio

A classic youth anthem that delicately portrays the wavering emotions of adolescence.

Past and present, hope and anxiety, the shift from boyhood to adulthood—the melody woven from conflicting feelings continues to resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Released in July 1990, the song was used as the theme for the drama “City Forest” and peaked at No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was also included on the album “JUSTICE,” and was re-released as a double A-side single in 2003.

When city life wears you down, when you’re striving far from home, or when you feel nostalgic for your youth, this song is sure to be there for you.

Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu

Yū Takahashi’s directorial debut MV “Tomorrow Will Surely Be a Good Day” — Omokuri Director Edit Version (Short Size)

“Tomorrow will be a better day.” That’s the kind of positive feeling this song—one of singer-songwriter Yu Takahashi’s signature tracks—gives you.

Just seeing the title can lift your spirits a little, right? Released in June 2015 as his 12th major-label single, the song was also featured in a commercial for Daihatsu’s Cast Activa.

The lyrics, which depict everyday experiences and emotions, carry a message about the importance of pushing forward and overcoming any difficulty.

If you listen to it on a day when you’re worn out from work or feeling anxious about tomorrow, it’s sure to give you courage!