[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!
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[Admiration] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (11–20)
Irresponsible HeroKanjani∞
If you’re looking to lift your spirits with a bright, upbeat hero song, I recommend “Mukashikanin Hero” (Literally: “Irresponsible Hero”).
It was released in 2008 by Kanjani Eight, an idol group whose members are all from the Kansai region, and it was featured in a KADOKAWA ‘dwango’ commercial.
Alongside their rich vocals, a dazzling band sound rings out.
The humorous lyrics wrap up worries and anxieties, giving you energy.
Why not embrace the straightforward kindness of idols who can make you smile no matter what?
Midnight HeroElefanto Kashimashi
A track with a cool, undulating guitar right from the intro.
Released in 1999 as Elephant Kashimashi’s 21st single, it’s a very straightforward rock number.
The distinctly ’90s guitar tone and the vocal delivery that steadily conveys lyrics with a literary sensibility are irresistible.
It’s that very simplicity and innocence that brings out a true hero’s spirit—listen closely and let it sink in.
The more you repeat it, the deeper it will seep into your heart.
Dancing HeroOginome Yōko
When people hear “hero song,” many probably think of ‘Dancing Hero.’ This track was released in 1985 by Yoko Oginome, who is also active as an actress.
It’s an arrangement of ‘Eat You Up,’ which was a huge hit in the UK.
The song has been turned into an upbeat dance number with a disco vibe.
Its dynamic intro is something almost everyone has heard at least once.
The lyrics, filled with aching feelings for a lover, are heart-tugging.
It’s a danceable tune that makes you want to think of your own personal hero as you listen.
My heroTHE BOOM
THE BOOM is a rock band known for signature songs like “Shima Uta” and “I Want to Be the Wind,” recognized for their wide-ranging musicality from ska rock to Okinawan folk.
Among their tracks, a song I especially recommend is “Boku no Hero” (My Hero).
It was included on their 1989 album The Sun of the Siren.
The jazzy band sound that unfolds with a rhythmic tempo is addictive—a powerful rock number that makes you want to dance.
Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, which convey a bittersweet longing for a “hero.”
Hero interviewBIGMAMA
BIGMAMA is a band that delivers a refreshing, emotional pop appeal.
This “Hero Interview” was born from the collaborative project “Radi-Tomo: Hero Interview” with the popular FM802 program “ROCK KIDS 802,” beloved especially by students.
It’s a coming-of-age song that sings about life through a story modeled after a post-game hero interview.
The lyrics, which can resonate with a wide range of experiences like choosing a path in life or falling in love, and the characteristically melodic harmonies of BIGMAMA are truly moving.
It’s a masterpiece that not only brings to mind the hero in your life, but also gives you the strength to step forward as the protagonist of your own story.
HERO (The time to become a hero is now)Kai Band
Kai Band is a rock group active since the 1970s.
They gained popularity with a sound that crosses over between kayōkyoku (Japanese pop) and rock.
Released in 1978, “HERO (Hīrō ni Naru Toki, Sore wa Ima)” is one of their signature songs—an emotional anthem filled with burning passion.
Alongside Yoshihiro Kai’s commanding vocals, the energetic sound rings out.
Its melodious chorus will cheer you on.
If you want to “be a hero for the one you love,” give it a listen.
[Admiration] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (21–30)
Hero interviewmei-chan
Starting with posting “I tried singing” videos on Niconico, Mei-chan made his major debut in 2017 with the album “This Is More or Less What’s Inside Mei-chan’s Head.” Released in December 2025, this work is a pep song that takes the familiar motif of the hero interview from sports broadcasts and overlays it onto people who are doing their best in everyday life.
The chorus, woven from a dazzling brass section and children’s voices, delivers a rush that makes you feel as if you’re being cheered on in a stadium.
It also carries a gentle message that resonates in your heart: the very act of continuing to move forward despite failures is what makes someone a hero.
It’s a must-listen for those starting a new chapter in life or anyone who wants to acknowledge their own daily efforts.