Uplifting! Heisei-Era Cheer Songs: The Best Hits
Here come the true classics: a roundup of the cheer songs that were big hits in the Heisei era!
The 1990s were the peak era for CD sales, and the Heisei period produced countless hit songs that are still sung today.
These are tunes everyone could hum along to.
They topped sales charts and are frequently featured on music shows.
Focusing on the “Best Hits,” we’ve compiled a variety of cheer songs—from anthems by the era’s biggest artists that defined Heisei, to hidden gems born from special projects with a touch of cool sophistication.
Dive in whenever you’re feeling nostalgic and in need of the comfort that Heisei cheer songs bring.
[Feel the Boost!] Heisei-Era Cheer Songs: The Best Hits (1–10)
Last chanceSomething ELse
Something Else, a Japanese band affectionately known as “Samuel.” Centered around an acoustic sound, they boast a distinctive musical style where stylish melodies peek through a languid, ennui-tinged atmosphere—a sound that gained popularity in the 1990s.
Among Samuel’s songs, the cheering anthem I especially recommend is Last Chance.
Its lyrics, which candidly speak of jealousy and pride, may help you recognize your true self—in a good way.
Don’t give upZARD
ZARD’s classic song “Makenaide.” Even today, it frequently appears across various media, with “24-Hour TV” being a prime example.
It’s no exaggeration to call it Japan’s most famous cheer song.
The charm of this track lies in its powerful message that gives you strength when you feel like giving up.
The message—“Don’t give up, you’re almost there”—is straightforward and honest, and precisely because it’s so correct, it really hits home.
Rather than simply throwing harshness at you, it gently helps you face forward.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
The duo DREAMS COME TRUE, known for their powerful vocals and catchy sound, were hugely successful from the 1990s through the 2000s.
They have an incredible number of classic songs, but this time I’d like to recommend Nando Demo as a cheer-up song.
Whether it’s a lover, family, or friends—everyone has someone precious to them.
This song portrays the idea that no matter how tough things get, remembering those important people fills you with strength and helps you push through.
Its messages are especially encouraging for office workers swaying on packed early-morning trains, so be sure to check it out.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
Singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara has left us with many masterpieces.
Many people may have been disappointed by that incident, but the songs he created still give strength to countless listeners.
Among his works, the encouragement song I especially recommend is “Donna Tokimo” (“No Matter When/What Happens”).
It’s a song about the importance of forging ahead on your own path, true to yourself; paired with its catchy melody, it really hits home.
I sincerely hope Makihara-san will, like in this song, hold himself accountable while staying true to who he is, and make his return to the spotlight.
That’s important.Daiji MAN Burazāzu Bando
DaijiMAN Brothers Band’s biggest hit, “Sore ga Daiji” (“That’s What Matters”).
With its catchy melody built on the Canon progression and its positive lyrics, it became a massive hit in the early 1990s.
The song’s real charm, I believe, lies in its “gentle yet forward-looking message that never forces you to overexert yourself.” Some motivational songs can be quite tough.
Those tracks have their appeal too, but when you’re truly worn down, you also want encouragement that feels kind.
This song meets that need perfectly—it’s the ideal uplifting track.
Endless JourneyMr.Children
As we enter adolescence, we may feel anxious, caught between high hopes for our future and a present that makes those hopes seem out of reach.
I went through a long period like that myself.
If you’re a student reading this, I encourage you to listen to “Endless Journey.” The song carries the message that life is, no matter how far you go, a journey of self-discovery.
For students weighed down by a vague, nameless anxiety, it’s a song that can lift a burden off your shoulders—so please give it a listen!
There’s always tomorrowUrufuruzu
Kyu Sakamoto’s classic song “Ashita ga Aru sa” (“There’s Always Tomorrow”).
In the 1960s, when rapid economic growth spurred the development of various industries and the times were changing at a dizzying pace, it was also an era shadowed by many issues facing workers.
“Ashita ga Aru sa” gained enormous popularity as a supportive anthem that gently encouraged those people.
This version by Ulfuls is a perfect fit for those of us living today.
Its lyrics, which portray both the hardships of a harsh society and a faint glimmer of hope, will help you forget the fatigue of everyday life.