RAG MusicUplifting Songs
A wonderful upbeat song

Uplifting songs recommended for women in their 40s

Women in their 40s may be working hard at their jobs, raising children, or living in many different circumstances, but I’m sure everyone is busy and going through demanding days.

When you don’t have much breathing room, you may often feel down or think, “I’m tired…”

In this article, we’ve gathered uplifting songs just for women like you.

From nostalgic tracks from your youth and gentle songs that slowly warm the heart to the latest J-pop picks, we’ve collected plenty of recommended feel-good songs.

Listen to some music and, every now and then, give yourself permission to take it easy and rest.

Uplifting Songs Recommended for Women in Their 40s (51–60)

PRIDEImai Miki

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video
PRIDEImai Miki

A heart-stirring anthem that turns hidden love into pride is delivered by Miki Imai.

Gazing up at the southern night sky, this piece sings of deep affection and resolve for a beloved, a gem of a love song crafted by Tomoyasu Hotei.

It gently speaks of the kindness to forgive one another and the joy of cherishing each other’s individuality, tenderly resonating with listeners’ hearts.

Released in November 1996, it was selected as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Doc,” generating a huge response by topping the Oricon charts for three consecutive weeks.

For those who wish to keep moving forward or who hold thoughts of someone precious close to their heart, it will offer gentle companionship—like a gift from the starry sky.

Rondo – revolutionOkui Masami

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening
Rondo - revolutionOkui Masami

Opening with a powerful beat, this song vividly conveys a message of self-transformation and growth, carried by Masami Okui’s resonant vocals.

The protagonist’s strong resolve to overcome a parting with someone dear and carve out their own path is embedded in the memorable melody.

Her commanding voice gives listeners the courage to take that first step forward.

Released in May 1997, the track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Revolutionary Girl Utena.

It was later included on the album Ma-KING and the acclaimed compilation S-mode #1.

Brimming with hope, this is a dependable song recommended for anyone feeling uncertain or ready to embark on a new beginning.

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto

Mayo Okamoto “TOMORROW” Music Video
TOMORROW Mayuo Okamoto

It’s one of the iconic cheer-up songs of the 1990s, and surely there are many women who, even after turning 40, still find strength in it.

Released in 1995 as Mayu Okamoto’s debut single, “TOMORROW” was a massive hit, selling over two million copies.

Even in the Reiwa era, it remains a universally beloved anthem.

The melody, delivered with Okamoto’s straightforward and clear voice, is very easy to sing, and it doesn’t include the high-note sections typical of many hits from that time, so even those with lower voices can feel at ease.

Since the song overall has a bouncy rhythm, it’s good to sing it with crisp articulation while paying attention to the dynamics of the melodic accents.

Blue waterMorikawa Miho

This is a masterpiece whose crystal-clear, refreshing melody and hope-filled lyrics resonate deeply.

It beautifully expresses a profound bond with a loved one, the courage to keep moving forward, and the excitement for a future brimming with limitless possibilities.

Miho Morikawa’s powerful, expansive vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.

Released in April 1990, it was selected as the opening theme for the NHK anime “Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water,” becoming a popular hit that stayed on the Oricon charts for 11 consecutive weeks.

Also included on the albums “VOICES” and “GOLDEN☆BEST Miho Morikawa,” this song is perfect for adding color to everyday life or giving yourself a boost when you need it.

Uplifting songs recommended for women in their 40s (61–70)

Unwavering WishTamura Naomi

Naomi Tamura “Unyielding Wish” feat. Akio Dobashi × Shunsuke Ishikawa × Koji Hasegawa × Yoshio Nomura
Unwavering WishTamura Naomi

Resounding with a sound that embodies an unyielding will to push forward without giving up on dreams and goals, it stirs the listener’s heart with fiery emotion.

Woven by Naomi Tamura, this rock-tinged, youth-infused piece carries a message of courage to overcome hardships time and again.

Released in November 1994, it was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Magic Knight Rayearth and was also included on the album N’ and the acclaimed GOLDEN☆BEST.

Mirroring the protagonist’s doubts and inner conflicts as well as their determined, forward-looking stance, it achieved remarkable synergy.

It’s the perfect song to gently nudge you from behind when you want to move forward but can’t quite take that first step.

CHA CHA CHAIshii Akemi

This song portrays a heroine living freely and with confidence.

It beautifully captures the image of an independent woman of its time, while the distinctive Latin-inspired rhythm leaves a striking impression.

Akemi Ishii’s husky vocals vividly convey both an unwavering inner strength that resists temptation and an urban coolness.

Released as her debut in August 1986, the song was used as the theme for the drama “Otoko to Onna Nanatsu no Natsu Monogatari” (Men and Women: Seven Summer Stories) and topped the Oricon annual singles chart.

It was also chosen as the entrance march for the 59th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament in spring 1987.

It’s a highly recommended track when you want to be reminded of the importance of living true to yourself.

Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Song of Life (Official Music Video)
Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya

A gem of a ballad woven by Mariya Takeuchi’s delicate and graceful voice.

With beautiful melodies and gentle piano phrases, it engraves in the heart the preciousness of life and the miracle of human encounters.

The melody that brings to mind bonds with loved ones and the warm, embracing vocals gently heal the listener’s heart.

Originally released in 2009 under the name Mana Kana as an insert song for the NHK morning drama series “Dandan,” it was later released in 2012 as a self-cover by Mariya Takeuchi.

It has also been cherished as the theme song for the NHK docudrama “Kaitakusha-tachi” (The Pioneers).

Loved as a piece that accompanies life’s important moments—such as weddings and graduations—it is a heartwarming song that makes you want to feel grateful for each irreplaceable day before you.