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

Cheering songTHE Inazuma Sentai

ouenka

Even the straightforward title, “Cheer Song,” and the rousing “Sore!” shout from the intro give you a push forward.

This track is the third single by the four-piece rock band THE Inazuma Sentai, released in 2003.

It’s the kind of song that makes you think, “Is this person looking at me right now?” “Do they know me?”—like being encouraged by an old friend—featuring lyrics that hit you straight in the heart.

Don’t overthink it; give it a listen when you need the strength to move forward.

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Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya

Genki wo dashite

We’re from different generations, but the way she sings—like she’s speaking to you—is soothing.

It feels like the taut string of tension in my stiff, straightened back finally loosens.

It’s a song that encourages a broken heart, yet it gives you strength even outside of romance.

The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP

The Only Flower in the World – SMAP

This song, SMAP’s 35th single, is a number loved across generations.

The lyrics and music are by Noriyuki Makihara.

It’s such a renowned piece that it even appears in school music textbooks.

A classic that proudly sings of being the only one, it’s a song that leaves your heart feeling bright and clear.

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In the Sun and the DustCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] In the Sun and Dust / CHAGE and ASKA

A powerful pop number that captures the sparkle of youth and the struggles of life.

Released as a single by CHAGE and ASKA in January 1991, this work warmly portrays young people who carry dreams and hopes while confronting a reality that doesn’t go their way.

Its lyrics, interweaving the joy and poignancy of living, leave an even deeper impression through a beautiful, resonant melody and effective use of synthesizers.

Chosen as a re-cut single from the album “SEE YA,” it gained wide support after being featured in a Nissin Foods commercial and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s program “TIME3.” When you feel overwhelmed by work and daily life and want to pause to face your own heart, this song will be there to gently stay by your side.

In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu

In the Great Sky and on the Vast Earth

This is one of Chiharu Matsuyama’s signature songs, known as an anthem of encouragement for young people.

Its powerful message resounds amid vast natural landscapes, urging listeners to seize their dreams through their own effort and will.

It conveys the resolve to believe in your true self and to live with all your strength, like a wildflower blooming in the fields, even when times are hard—an inspiring classic that gives courage to all who hear it.

Featured on the album “A Song Made for You,” the piece was released in June 1977 and remains enduringly popular.

It has been cherished as an insert song in the drama “The Ugly Duckling” and as a cheer song for high school baseball in Matsuyama’s home of Hokkaido.

With its dramatic melody, powerful vocals, and stirring lyrics, it’s a song to listen to when you’re at a crossroads in life or about to take a new step forward.

ultra soulB’z

B’z / ultra soul

At the end of the chorus, they shout the title, and it feels incredibly refreshing.

It clears your head, like all the haze in your chest gets blown away.

If you shout along with the groove, it gives you even more energy.

I recommend it for pumping yourself up before taking on a challenge.

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.