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

HappinessAI

AI – Happiness

Whether you’re feeling HAPPY or so down you can’t smile, this song will make you feel happy.

It makes you believe that if you smile, the whole world will become happy—and that you’re truly being cheered on.

I especially recommend the chorus.

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.

AuroraBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「Aurora」

That signature BUMP OF CHICKEN sound—fresh and expansive—feels so pleasant, doesn’t it? On top of that, Motoo Fujiwara’s gentle vocals wrap your ears in comfort.

It’s not an up-tempo, high-energy track, but the understated yet solid rhythm section gradually lifts your spirits.

Released in July 2019, this song was written as the theme for the TBS Sunday drama “The Good Wife.” The lyrics focus on inner conflict and growth, depicting a journey of self-exploration and development that has endeared it to many fans.

With its theme of having the courage and hope to keep moving forward despite hardships and setbacks, it’s a perfect track for anyone steadily working toward their goals.

YAH YAH YAHCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] YAH YAH YAH / CHAGE and ASKA

It is an aggressive track emblematic of the ’90s, infused with power and passion for the future.

Even when faced with difficult circumstances, its message of unwavering resolve to stay true to oneself and keep moving forward, along with hope for the future, continues to resonate across generations.

The song channels the passion of chasing dreams and an unyielding stance in the face of trials through a powerful rock sound.

Released by CHAGE and ASKA in March 1993, it was used as the theme song for the drama “If You Turn Around, He’s There,” topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks, sold 2.419 million copies, and ranked first on the annual singles chart.

It’s highly recommended for those who want to challenge themselves in pursuit of their dreams without fear of failure, or for anyone standing at a major crossroads in life.

It’s sure to give you courage.

NO MORE CRYD-51

D-51 / NO MORE CRY Gokusen theme song

It’s about stopping the version of yourself that keeps running away and instead running forward, and it’s incredibly encouraging.

The melody has a light, upbeat tempo, so there’s no sense of suffering.

It puts you in the mood to stay positive and do your best, and while you won’t cry any more, the idea of shedding tears of joy is really lovely.

FantasistaDragon Ash

Dragon Ash – FANTASISTA

Fantasista, with its powerful sound and exhilarating, fast-paced melody, lifts listeners’ spirits.

Chosen as a theme song for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, its refreshing feel and straightforward message continue to empower many people even today.

It’s a particularly nostalgic track for those in their 50s.

While the rap parts are fast and can be hard to follow, singing the chorus together will definitely raise the energy.

Be sure to enjoy this song with friends and teammates, and let it strengthen your heart.

Dear My FriendEvery Little Thing

ELT tour 1998 Dear My Friend

Kaori Mochida’s high notes give me a huge boost of energy.

It’s a song about love and friendship, but more than the lyrics, the melody is excellent—refreshing and uplifting.

The ’90s vibe brings back memories of my youth, so it’s sure to be very encouraging.