A famous song about setbacks. A song that stays by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up.
While living, there are happy moments, but there are surely many times when we feel crushed, too.
I researched songs about the theme of setbacks—ones that can give you encouragement.
Rather than songs that just say “Keep it bright and push through!”, I mainly picked tracks that stay close to those frustrating feelings during a setback and the tough times.
So when nothing seems to be going right, please give them a listen.
May setbacks become the seeds of success.
I’m sure music will give you plenty of strength!
A collection of classic songs about setbacks—tunes that stay by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up (1–10)
ContinueSEAMO
The title “Continue” carries the meaning of perseverance.
Rather than winning or losing, it’s about sticking with what you’ve decided to do.
The message suggests that what truly matters is believing in yourself and not being defeated by yourself.
The piece uses Elgar’s march “Pomp and Circumstance” as a motif; the blend of SEAMO—a rapper—and this classical masterpiece is exquisite, creating a track that gradually stirs motivation from deep within.
Progresskokua (sugashikao)
I secretly felt a smug sense of satisfaction seeing the person who started alongside me stumble, but I hate that side of myself.
This is a song that candidly expresses the feelings I experienced when I failed, too.
The emotions of thinking I’m no good, wanting to be reborn, and wishing to become stronger quietly sink into the heart.
DiamondBUMP OF CHICKEN
There are probably many people who, if possible, don’t want to fail, who want to live carefully so they don’t stumble.
It’s precisely because we work hard at so many things every day that anyone would feel down when they trip up.
This song embraces you in those moments and won’t deny your earnest efforts, no matter how many times you fail.
With a light, upbeat melody, it gently gives you a push forward.
For me to be myselfOzaki Yutaka
There are times when, when things go wrong and misfortunes pile up, it makes you feel like it’s the world that’s out of joint, not you.
Even then—even in times as unsettling as these—it reminds me that I have to keep winning my battles and live true to myself.
StarRingChildAimer
A track for those going through tough times, having no choice but to act strong—one I especially want people in pain to hear.
The lyrics pierce the heart as they question why, when we were pure and looked at the world with clearer eyes as children, things changed.
It’s a song that gently wraps around a heart that’s grown timid.