An encouraging, uplifting song that stays close to your heart. A cheer song.
When you’re feeling down because something tough or unpleasant happened, what do you do?
I imagine many people turn to music to lift their spirits.
Music can make energy well up inside you when you listen to it, give you courage through its lyrics, encourage you—there are so many positive effects!
So in this article, we’ll introduce songs that will make you feel better when you listen to them.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks, from songs with messages that cheer on those who are giving their all, to tunes with bright melodies that clear your mind.
When you’re feeling low or need a boost, try listening to the songs we introduce.
They’re all wonderful tracks that are sure to be by your side and comfort your heart!
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Songs that lift your spirits and stay close to your heart. Cheer-up songs (11–20)
SUNHoshino Gen
The song that makes you feel happy for no reason just by listening is Gen Hoshino’s “SUN.” Released as a single in 2015, it was written as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne” and reached No.
2 on the Oricon singles chart.
It’s dance music that blends a catchy melody with a groovy beat.
According to Hoshino, “SUN” was composed with the aim of being “a song that people who live earnestly can joyfully dance to.”
To Us Who Were Once GeniusesCreepy Nuts
It’s a song by Creepy Nuts that gives you the courage to move forward, along with a message that resonates with the heart.
It reminds you of the boundless possibilities of childhood and offers a chance to reclaim the individuality that can get lost in society.
Released in August 2020 as the title track of their album, it was also used in a commercial for Teikyo Heisei University.
The melody is catchy, and you can enjoy the wordplay unique to hip-hop.
It’s perfect for those who feel lost in life or want to take on a new challenge.
Give it a listen when you need a boost of energy or want to fire yourself up.
Myself ROCKONE OK ROCK
This song stands as an anthem for life, resonating closely with many people.
It’s packed with ONE OK ROCK’s energetic sound and powerful message.
First released in April 2010 and later included on the June album “Niche Syndrome,” the track sings about the importance of believing in yourself and moving forward.
It struck a chord especially with young listeners and helped solidify the band’s popularity.
It’s a song that gives you courage when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.
Perfect for anyone who wants to live true to themselves—be sure to give it a listen.
Teenager ForeverKing Gnu
This is a motivational song themed around reclaiming the radiance of youth.
King Gnu’s music values the energy and passion of the teenage years and sings about the importance of carrying them into adulthood.
Released in January 2020 as a lead single from the album CEREMONY, it was also featured in a commercial for Sony’s truly wireless earbuds, the WF-1000XM3.
The song carries a message of breaking free from regrets over past dreams, hopes, and what’s been lost, and cherishing the present moment.
Encouraging listeners to notice small joys in everyday life, this work is sure to resonate with people living in today’s busy society.
CharacterRyokushokushakai
A superb pop tune that gives you a lighthearted perspective—“try enjoying your own existence as a single role you play.” Created by the mixed-gender band Ryokuoushoku Shakai, it was produced as a core track on their album “Actor,” released in January 2022.
It was also featured in Morinaga’s “in Jelly” commercial, so many of you have likely heard it.
Packed with ideas from every member, the track’s buoyant beat and catchy melody naturally get your heart and body moving.
Its affirmative message—turn even tension and anxiety into energy—will give listeners a powerful push.
Whether you’re facing a crucial moment like an exam or a big work challenge, or you just want to boost your confidence, this song will surely flip your positive switch!
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu
A song by Kyu Sakamoto, a singer who was also active as an actor, TV personality, and host, but who passed away suddenly in a 1985 plane crash.
The song is well-known not only in Japan but also in the United States and Europe, and it continues to be sung around the world under titles such as “SUKIYAKI.” The melancholy conveyed in its brief lyrics is filled with a gentleness that softly envelops a downcast heart.
It’s an imperishable classic that never loses its luster with the changing times, giving us the courage to persevere in difficult moments.
Songs that lift your spirits and stay close to your heart. Cheer-up songs (21–30)
The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster
This one is a must for a feel-good anthem! It’s Little Glee Monster’s “Sekai wa Anata ni Waraikakete Iru” (“The World Is Smiling at You”).
Released in August 2018 as their 12th single, it was also selected as Coca-Cola’s annual image song for 2018.
The fresh, sparkling rhythm and the group’s rich choral work feel so good to listen to.
With its positive message that if you smile as yourself, the world will smile back, this track is truly a vitamin for the heart.
It’s an upbeat number that makes your body want to move just by listening, making it perfect for your morning run or walk! The powerhouse sound—winner of the Composition Award at the 60th Japan Record Awards in 2018—will blow away a gloomy mood and recharge you for tomorrow.