![[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Th7MAZYFIMc/sddefault.jpg)
[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes
A hero to you… I feel like everyone has at least one.It could be family, a friend, a lover, or someone fighting on a screen.In this article, we’ve gathered lots of songs that sing about those cool heroes.The more you look, the more songs you find.I think that shows just how many heroes live in everyone’s hearts.This is a playlist I hope you’ll listen to when you want to feel fired up or when you want to lean on someone!
[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (1–10)
peace signYonezu Kenshi
A song written by Kenshi Yonezu as the opening theme for the TV anime My Hero Academia and released in 2017.
Fitting for a hit anime that portrays a “quirkless” protagonist who longs to be a hero and grows into the greatest one, it’s a number that fills you with genuine smiles.
It was reportedly created with the image of “a boy seen from behind, holding up a peace sign.” Even if you’re crying now, full of frustration and shame, this is a superb cheering song that encourages you: if you keep walking forward with all your might, a strong and bright future awaits you.
THE DAYNEW!Porunogurafiti
This is a track that strikes the heart with exhilarating rock sounds and a fiery message about facing adversity! Without rejecting the protagonist’s doubts, its worldview portrays the resolve to look ahead, overlapping with the story and tugging at the heartstrings.
Released in May 2016 as PornoGraffitti’s 43rd single, this song was chosen as the opening theme for Season 1 of the TV anime “My Hero Academia,” and is beloved as one of the band’s signature anime songs.
It’s perfect for anyone who needs a push when they’re about to lose heart.
It’s also fantastic for belting out at karaoke and getting the crowd hyped!
Because you’re my hero.LiSA
LiSA is a singer who has performed the theme songs for numerous anime, and she’s also known for winning the Grand Prize at the 62nd Japan Record Awards.
Among her songs, the one that sings about heroes is “Datte Atashi no Hero.” Released in 2017, it was used as the ending theme for Season 2 of the anime My Hero Academia.
It’s an energetic rock tune overflowing with exhilaration.
Her vocals, filled with both kindness and strength, will give you courage.
Please accept the warm message that reminds us that everyone who strives is a hero.
Best of HeroKuraki Mai
The song I want you to listen to while thinking of the hero you admired is “Best of Hero.” It was released in 2006 by singer Mai Kuraki, who has worked on numerous tie-in songs, and it was used as the theme song for the drama “Gachi Baka!” A gentle synth tone resonates over a rhythmic tempo, and her supple, beautiful voice will gently give you a push forward.
The heartfelt lyrics that evoke a grand theme are another part of its charm.
How about giving this hero song a listen—a track that teaches the importance of perseverance?
The hero is you and meKajihadeki
A number performed by Hideki Kaji, known for his breezy songwriting rooted in neo-acoustic and guitar pop.
Often nicknamed “Mr.
Sweden,” his sound has remained unchanged since his solo debut—light on its feet and beautifully pop.
The unpretentious message—that you don’t need a hero, as long as you have yourself and someone important to you—lifts your spirits.
It’s a song that gently warms the heart, making you think, “So this is another kind of hero.”
Goodbye, HEROKobukuro
Kobukuro is a musical duo that heals listeners’ hearts with dramatic ballads.
They’re known for powerful message songs delivered with assured vocal prowess.
While they often create songs with a warm atmosphere, “Sayonara HERO” is a powerful, passionate rock tune.
It’s included on their 2009 album “CALLING” and was created for the musician Kiyoshiro Imawano.
The track is filled with emotional feelings for a hero they once admired.
It’s also recommended to listen while thinking of someone you looked up to in your childhood.
THE HERO !!JAM Project
A single released in 2015 by the anison vocalist group JAM Project as the opening theme for the TV anime One-Punch Man.
It’s a powerful, fast-paced rock tune perfectly suited to the One-Punch Man, who can defeat any enemy with a single punch.
The sky-piercing high vocals and razor-sharp guitar feel absolutely exhilarating.
It’s highly recommended to sing at karaoke when you’re feeling gloomy or pent-up!
Our HeroNakajima Takui
A hero song I especially want to recommend to people who make music is “Bokura no Hero.” It’s a track by rock musician Takui Nakajima—also known for writing songs for Hello! Project idol groups—featured on his 2007 album “Boku wa Kimi no Omocha.” It’s an uplifting anthem distinguished by a pleasantly retro groove and rhyming in the chorus.
The lyrics, filled with respect for a beloved rock star, give you a push forward.
You’re wrapped in the preciousness of a hero—the kind of musician who always fires you up and keeps encouraging you.
HeroUrufuruzu
Among Ulfuls’ songs, this one stands out with a dazzling sound and an inspiring hero vibe.
It’s the lead track from ONE MIND, their first album in six and a half years after resuming activities.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama Detective 110kg, it carries a sense of justice.
Ulfuls’ characteristically straightforward lyrics resonate even more through Tortoise Matsumoto’s soulful vocals.
Infused with a burning desire to pursue the soul that wells up from within and one’s inner ideals, the song itself makes you feel that it is a “hero.”
Hero HOLDING OUT FOR A HEROAsakura Miki
Singer Miki Asakura captivated listeners with songs overflowing with mature allure.
Her 1984 release “Hero (Holding Out for a Hero)” was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama School Wars.
It’s also often used as an entrance theme for boxing and professional wrestling.
This powerful rock number awakens the fiery feelings in your heart.
Alongside her overwhelming vocals, vibrant choral work resounds.
If you want to recharge a weary heart with energy, be sure to give it a listen.