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/encouragement songs (31–40)
smileAnly
A gem of a ballad that gives you the courage to keep looking forward no matter what.
Sung by Anly, a singer-songwriter from Ie Island in Okinawa, the song stands out for its straightforward message of staying smiling especially in tough times.
Carried by a warm sound with the soothing tones of acoustic guitar, it gently seeps into the listener’s heart.
Released in March 2016, the track was used as the theme song for the special drama “Boku no Inochi,” based on the true story of a boy with a serious illness and his family.
With lyrics celebrating the bonds between loved ones, it’s perfect for graduations and new beginnings.
If you listen when you’re feeling a little down, you’ll be wrapped in a kindness that feels like a gentle nudge forward.
WOW WAR TONIGHT ~ Sometimes Start a MovementH Jungle with T
As a song that lifts weary hearts and gives listeners the strength to take a new step forward, H Jungle with t’s track resonates deeply.
It carries a message of a strong will to change your own future despite daily fatigue, and of facing forward together with your companions.
Since its release in February 1995, it spent seven consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon charts and achieved sales of over 2.13 million copies.
Seamlessly blending Tetsuya Komuro’s polished production with Masatoshi Hamada’s down-to-earth vocals, this song is perfect for moments when you need a little boost amid the busyness of work and life, or when you’re thinking about starting something new.
Eye to EyeSuchmos
Suchmos is a rock band that captivates listeners with their sophisticated groove.
Their sound, blending rock, jazz, and soul, is truly one of a kind.
This track sings of a strong resolve to move forward with one’s heart and pride.
Its message about the importance of believing in yourself resonates deeply, carried by a minimal yet high-energy ensemble.
It also overlaps with the band’s own resurgence, likely giving listeners a powerful push forward.
It’s included on the EP “Sunburst,” released in July 2025.
Perfect for getting fired up on your commute or psyching yourself up before a big moment.
An emotional anthem of encouragement, defined by a cool, urban sound.
together; along with; bothWANIMA
This is an uplifting song that gently conveys the importance of facing forward and living on.
Its message-rich lyrics blend beautifully with a driving sound, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released by WANIMA in August 2016, the track was featured in Nivea Kao’s 8×4 commercial and captured the hearts of many.
Influenced by the Kumamoto earthquake that occurred during production, the lyrics also weave in thoughts of home and the preciousness of life.
It’s a song to hear when you feel close to losing your way, when you’re ready to take a new step, or when you want to keep moving forward alongside cherished friends.
Cheer of StarlightGReeeeN
The theme song for NHK’s morning drama series Yell, which sings of hope illuminated by a star-filled sky.
Warm vocals woven by GReeeeN, a group from Fukushima, gently convey the importance of meeting, parting, and supporting one another, delivering the message that hearts remain connected even when we’re apart.
Released in June 2020 as GReeeeN’s 34th single, the song topped the Oricon Digital Singles chart.
Like stars, it brings shining hope and courage to those living away from their hometowns or far from their loved ones.
Songs that lift your spirits and stay close to your heart. Cheer-up songs (41–50)
It’s us.imase
Musician imase picked up an instrument for the first time at age 20 and made his major-label debut the following year.
His eighth digital-only single, “Bokurada,” written for NTT Docomo’s web commercial for the ahamo plan, “What does it mean to be an adult?”, features a distinctive vocal that lingers in your ears over a refreshing ensemble.
Its message—that the possibilities of the future are limitless—will likely give a push to those who are struggling or feeling uncertain.
A modern melody makes it a positive pop tune that inspires a forward-looking mindset.
Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu
A heartwarming song by Yu Takahashi that, with a gentle singing voice, portrays the worries and joys everyone experiences.
Its positive message—like laughing off awkward moments and remembering that a rainbow comes after the rain—gently encourages listeners.
Released in June 2015, it was featured in a Daihatsu commercial.
It’s also used as the departure melody at JR Akita Station, Takahashi’s hometown station.
This song is recommended for when you want to lift your spirits, overcome difficulties, or take a step toward tomorrow.