Songs that give you courage. Recommended tracks that fill you with strength when you listen to them.

PRIDEImai Miki

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video

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.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.

Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.

Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.

It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.

It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.

GuildBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Guild"

A masterpiece that deeply questions the meaning of life and one’s own worth has been making waves.

The ballad released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in November 2006 is a work that expresses the self by likening life to a “job.” Its meticulously crafted guitar riffs and delicate vocals weave a melody that gently stays with the listener, evoking profound empathy.

The piece was also developed as a puppet-theater DVD, with band members serving as voice actors, expanding its world beyond music.

This is a song especially for those searching for what it means to live true to themselves, or for anyone feeling worn out by daily life.

If I had been living aloneSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER "If I Had Lived Alone" MV

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad that vividly portrays the joy and frustration we feel through our connections with others.

Included on SUPER BEAVER’s single “Highlight/Hitoride Ikiteita Naraba,” released in June 2020, this track was chosen as the theme song for the film Water Ribbon, starring Ayami Nakajo.

With delicate instrumentation and an emotive vocal performance, the melody gently sings of the importance of bonds with others and mutual support.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart when you want to reflect on what it means to live true to yourself and to find the courage to overcome setbacks.

EurekaHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Eureka [Official Video]

Gen Hoshino offers a heartwarming song about self-renewal and the courage to look forward.

While drawing on jazz and soul, it supports that first step into the unknown with his signature gentle melodies and deeply insightful lyrics.

Embracing the anxieties and doubts we all carry, its warm message resonates by staying close to the small joys and realizations of everyday life.

Released in January 2025, this powerful track was written as the theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “Madoka, 26, I’m a Resident Doctor!” The music video, directed by photographer Kotori Kawashima, also highlights a relaxed, charming atmosphere with actor Taiga Nakano.

It’s an encouraging anthem that stands by anyone ready to take a new step or in need of courage to live.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – “Nando Demo”

This is a powerful message song that gives you the courage to rise again and again when faced with trials and setbacks.

With DREAMS COME TRUE’s pop yet grand sound, it’s a track that radiates dazzling hope.

Released in February 2005, it drew attention as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours (Season 3).” With a powerful vocal performance that underscores the importance of an “unyielding heart,” it reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

In 2011, thanks to its strong, uplifting message, it became the most-played Japanese song on radio stations nationwide.

When your heart feels like it’s about to break, or when you need the courage to move forward, listening to this song will help you take a new step.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

This song, which delivers a message filled with hope and courage, is GReeeeN’s major-label debut, released in January 2007.

It’s an encouragement anthem that stands beside those facing life’s hardships.

The simple yet powerful melody blends perfectly with the relatable lyrics, giving listeners the courage to take a step toward the future.

When you need the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to face forward.