[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?
MECHA-MECHAMECHATU-A
This is a powerful number that sings of courage and justice.
Created by MECHATU-A, it’s the theme song that colors their hero show, first unveiled to great buzz at the NIJISANJI 7th Anniversary Festival in February 2025.
The bold vocals and energetic sound inspire listeners, while the lyrics brim with bonds between comrades, hope for the future, and a resolve to uphold justice—filling the entire track with an exhilarating sense of uplift.
Perfect for a morning motivation boost or a refreshing change of pace.
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.
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 (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.
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.
[Admiration] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (21–30)
Chinese Hero10-FEET
If you’re looking for a hero song that sings of a blazing, fiery spirit, “Chinese Hero” is highly recommended.
It’s included on Life is sweet, the album released in 2009 by 10-FEET, a rock band that has led Japan’s punk scene since the 2000s.
The track features the straightforward guitar sound characteristic of a three-piece band, with a lively, melodic hardcore beat.
Pay attention to the warm lyrics that teach you to stand up again and again! Why not add this punkish track to your playlist and awaken the hero within?