There are times when we need courage—like when we take on a challenge or start a new life in a different environment.
Many of you probably think, “I want to listen to music and get a boost of courage!” in those moments.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of songs that give you the courage to take that first step.
We’ve picked many tracks—cheering songs and uplifting songs—that will support you.
Be sure to read the lyrics as you listen, and let them be the spark that helps you take that first step!
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Songs that give you courage. Recommended tracks that will fill you with strength when you listen (1–10)
FateKato Miria
It’s a powerful track by Miliyah Kato, where the sound of karate uniforms brushing and the fighters’ spirited breathing itself becomes the rhythm.
It was written as the official support song for the Japan Karatedo Federation (a public interest incorporated foundation) and released digitally in March 2021.
It was later included on the album “WHO LOVES ME.” The sound, which fuses the grand resonance of an orchestra with actual competition audio, is overwhelming and stirs the heart just by listening.
Its message is compelling, conveying a strong will to carve out even a predestined fate by one’s own power.
Even on those May mornings when you just can’t get motivated, listening to this song will give you the courage to fight on without giving in.
StargazeSixTONES
This is a rock number written and produced by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, sparking a chemical reaction with the members’ passionate vocals.
Released in September 2025 as SixTONES’ 16th single, it has also become beloved as the support song for NTV’s 45th All Japan High School Quiz Championship.
Set to a driving band sound, it portrays pushing forward by turning even doubt and impatience into strength, giving listeners a powerful push on the back.
It’s perfect for those times after a long holiday when you just can’t get motivated, or in moments when May blues weigh on your heart.
Let this ultimate cheer, packed with energy to break through the status quo, blow away your gloomy mood!
Myself ROCKONE OK ROCK
A ONE OK ROCK number that teaches us the value of staying true to ourselves without being swayed by the noise around us.
Riding on a high-velocity, energetic rock sound, its fiery message—urging you to live without lying to yourself—resonates deep in your chest.
Released in April 2010 as a TSUTAYA-exclusive rental, it was later included as the lead track on the masterpiece album “Niche Syndrome.” When you’re tired of reading other people’s faces, this anthem reminds you that the lead role in your life is, after all, your own.
Put it on when you want to blow away the haze and charge up your energy for tomorrow!
Go your wayRyokushokushakai
An unknown world can be scary, but it’s exciting too, right? For kicking off a brand-new chapter, nothing fits better than Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s adrenaline-charged rock tune! Its thrilling sound—laced with elements of jazz and hip-hop—and Haruko Nagaya’s powerful vocals give you the courage to break new ground.
Released as a single in November 2022, it was written as the theme song for the NTV drama “First Penguin!”.
You’ve finished unpacking after your move, and tomorrow you’re heading to a new workplace or school.
Blow away the anxiety and take that bold first step together with this song, shall we?
white noiseOfisharu Higedan Dism
A rock number by Official HIGE DANDism you’ll want to play when you need the strength to push forward and break through the walls in your way.
Its high-speed, hard-hitting band sound and lyrics about cutting through anxiety and doubt to move ahead ignite a fighting spirit for tackling your studies.
Released digitally in January 2023, the track was chosen as the opening theme for the Tokyo Revengers: Christmas Showdown Arc and Tenjiku Arc, and is also included on the 2024 album Rejoice.
Its thrilling song structure fires up the brain, steels a faltering heart, and helps you regain the focus to sit back down at your desk.
Got Boost？FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE
A dance tune that blends colorful pop flair with a bittersweet, slightly dark worldview, sure to ignite the listener’s heart.
The exhilarating, fast-paced beat and the fresh vocals of the FANTASTICS members will charge you up for tomorrow! Its catchy chorus sticks in your head after just one listen and will have your body moving before you know it.
Released in October 2024 as their 15th single, this track was chosen as the theme song for TV Asahi’s Kamen Rider GAV.
With a message about pressing forward—strong like a hero, yet carrying moments of sorrow—it’s bound to give a push to anyone ready to take a new step.
This energetic song is perfect for mornings when you’re feeling low or for boosting your mood on your commute to work or school.
The calling voiceVaundy
Written by singer-songwriter Vaundy as the theme song for NHK General’s “Vaundy 18-sai Matsuri,” this piece was released digitally in December 2025.
It was created on the premise of being sung together with “1,000 18-year-olds gathered from across the country.” It brilliantly fuses introspective personal emotions and a forward-looking stance toward the future with the anthemic exhilaration of voices raised in unison.
It’s a track brimming with overwhelming energy that powerfully pushes the backs of those who are earnestly taking on a challenge.