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!
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A classic song about setbacks. Songs that stay by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up (51–60)
IchibanboshiSnow Man
This is a message song by Snow Man that expresses the determination to keep moving forward even when your heart feels like it’s about to break.
A medium-tempo ballad, it features a warm melody and stunning harmonies that showcase the individuality of all nine members.
The lyrics carefully portray a shift in emotion—from the pain of being unable to accept even words of encouragement to a feeling of gratitude toward those who offered support.
Included on the album “i DO ME,” released in May 2023, the song has maintained strong popularity among fans.
It gently accompanies anyone striving toward a dream or hoping to support someone else.
Don’t give upZARD
It’s that song the performers always sing when the 24-Hour TV marathon runner is nearing the finish line.
Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice is also distinctive.
Even when you stumble over something, listening to this song gives you the courage to keep running and not give up until the goal.
That’s important.Daiji MAN Burazāzu Bando
I don’t think there are many other songs whose chorus and overall message are as powerful as this one.
Even when you stumble again and again and start to think you might be finished, it makes you feel, “This is exactly the moment to hold firm!” and gives you the strength to get back up every time.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
I think everyone has heard the chorus on TV at least once.
The lyrics are upbeat and very straightforward, yet they pierce the heart.
When I’ve been through a lot of tough times, listening to this uptempo song makes me feel like I can become stronger.
A masterpiece that sings of setbacks. Songs that stay by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up (61–70)
A bird that cannot flyyuzu
This is a classic song by Yuzu that layers the inner struggle of a broken spirit over the image of a bird that has forgotten how to fly.
The helpless feelings of stumbling once, losing confidence, and losing sight of the path forward resonate deeply with its wistful, mellow sound.
But this piece isn’t just a song of despair.
It portrays a story of recovery—setting out once more, guided by the gentle words received from someone important.
Released in October 2000, it colored the story as the theme song of the TV drama “Wipe Your Tears” and was also included on the acclaimed album “Tobira.” When you hit a major wall, it will give you the courage to take the next step.
SetbackMatsuyama Chiharu
With a straightforward title like “Setback,” and because it’s by Chiharu Matsuyama, who’s known for so many great songs, you can’t help but wonder what kind of song it is.
When you’re feeling down, you suddenly think of your hometown.
Sometimes you feel like going back to that town filled with memories of happier times.
Your hometown is always there, waiting for you.
To rest your tired heart and body, why not take a little trip back home?
HappinessAI
When you’re sad, you might want to be alone or feel unpleasant.
At times like that, this song reminds you that laughing with the people around you and keeping a smile are what matter most.
Listening to it also fills you with happiness.