Just listening will lift your spirits! Energetic and cheer-up songs that defined the Heisei era.
No matter the era, many people switch their mood through music.
There are songs that give you a push, songs that get you hyped, and songs that light up a karaoke session—there are truly countless tracks in the world.
This time, from the Heisei era, which produced many classic hits, we’ll introduce songs that can lift your spirits just by listening.
When you’re feeling down or stressed, try finding the perfect song to match your mood!
Just by listening, you’ll feel energized! The top Heisei-era upbeat and cheer songs (1–10)
smileNEW!ikimonogakari
It’s a heartwarming ballad that can serve as a guiding light in life.
Released as a single in July 2013, it was chosen as the theme song for the film “Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram/White—Victini and Zekrom” (Best Wishes! Genesect and the Legend Awakened: Mewtwo Awakens).
With Kiyoe Yoshioka’s conversational singing style, each word resonates directly with the heart.
It embraces the presence of a loved one as something miraculous, carrying a message to keep moving forward even in the face of sorrow or parting.
When your heart feels frayed, listening to it brings a gentle, comforting sense of reassurance.
It’s a song that quietly gives you a push when you’re troubled and feel like you might stop in your tracks.
GUTS！NEW!arashi
An up-tempo rhythm and dazzling brass sound make this track a guaranteed mood-lifter.
It’s packed with a positive theme about pushing forward without giving up, even if you don’t follow the textbook path, and just listening to it truly fills you with courage! Released as a single in April 2014, it was also loved as the theme song for the drama “Even If You’re Weak, You Can Win: Mr.
Aoshi and the Clumsy High School Baseball Players’ Ambition.” Later included on the original album “THE DIGITALIAN,” this song became a major talking point as an energetic cheer anthem sung by the nationally beloved group Arashi.
It’s a classic that gives you the powerful push you need to take that first step.
together; along with; bothWANIMA
A hopeful song woven by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture.
Featured on their second single “JUICE UP!!,” this track was chosen as the theme song for the Kumamoto earthquake recovery project “Together We Move Forward, Kumamoto.” The band made their first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in December 2017, and the song was also included on their first major full-length album, “Everybody!!,” released the following January.
Its straightforward lyrics and driving sound convey the courage to face hardship and the importance of human connection.
It’s a refreshing, high-energy tune perfect for moments when you’re feeling low or need a push forward.
Full-Power BoySukima Suichi
This is Sukima Switch’s fifth single, released in April 2005.
The song has been featured in numerous tie-ins, including a commercial song for NTT DoCoMo Kansai, the opening theme for Nippon TV’s “Ongaku Senshi MUSIC FIGHTER,” and an insert song for the film “Rough.” Its driving piano and memorable melody evoke the very notion of “giving it your all,” just as the title suggests.
The lyrics depict overcoming setbacks and inner conflict to carve out one’s own path.
It’s truly an encouraging anthem that gives you a push forward—perfect for times when you’re feeling down or when you want to take on something new.
A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
The fifth single by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, a music duo known for their melodious rap and pop tracks that have produced many hits.
It was also used as the opening theme for a music program and as an insert song in a film, and its positive lyrics have made it a fan favorite.
Released in May 2007, it reached No.
8 on the Oricon chart and was certified Gold.
The song conveys the importance of moving forward, no matter how small the courage.
With lyrics that make you feel your limits are far from reached and spark motivation, it’s the perfect track to listen to when you need to push yourself and boost your energy.
Soul RevolutionSuperfly
A song characterized by powerful messages and a soul-stirring sound.
Chosen as NHK’s soccer theme song for 2010, it teaches the importance of believing in yourself and moving forward.
Included on the album “Mind Travel,” this track brims with energy that ignites the listener’s heart.
If you’re feeling down or anxious before a new challenge, listening to it will undoubtedly give you courage.
It’s the perfect rock number to play first thing in the morning to flip on your motivation switch for the day.
I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.Sambomasutā
Written as Sambomaster’s 14th single for Nissan’s Serena commercial (the “Rock Climbing” version), this number delivers a powerful message—through forthright vocals—about the importance of never giving up and continuing to take on challenges, no matter how difficult the situation.
In 2018, it was also selected as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama Cheer☆Dan, resonating with many listeners.
It’s the perfect track when you need the courage to move forward—whether you’re stuck at work or in relationships, or when you’ve lost confidence in yourself.