[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 (21–30)
The hero arrivesyuzu
Included on the 2006 album “Ribbon.” Yuzu is a folk duo from Kanagawa Prefecture formed in 1996.
They’re appealing for their rhythm section’s straight-ahead beat and a melody line reminiscent of the blues.
Riding on that sound, the two vocalists deliver powerful singing, making for a nicely finished track.
budOmoinotake
An emotional pop-rock track that gives you the courage to move forward into the future.
Created by Omoinotake, it was released digitally in May 2024.
It features a stirring melody and a memorable chorus.
Chosen as the ending theme for Season 7 of the popular anime My Hero Academia, it’s been generating buzz.
The lyrics convey a strong determination not to give up on understanding others, making your heart swell.
Its captivating sound also reflects influences from soul music and R&B.
Give it a listen when you want to reset your mood.
[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (31–40)
HEROESNishikawa Takanori
Takanori Nishikawa has released a full-fledged rock tune that fuses a high-velocity band sound with an emotional melody.
The song was composed by Sojiro Oki and arranged by seasoned producer Seiji Kameda.
With a powerful message, it’s a track brimming with courage and hope.
Released in May 2025 as his seventh solo single, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “A Middle-Aged Man from the Countryside Becomes a Sword Saint.” The single comes in two editions: a regular edition and a limited-time production edition.
The regular edition includes one of eight random trading cards, while the limited-time production edition features a Blu-ray and a digipak with newly drawn artwork.
It’s an ambitious release recommended not only for anime fans but also for music listeners who love band-driven sounds.
Everyone is a heroRAG FAIR
This is a track from the 2009 album “Magical Music Train.” RAG FAIR is a five-member group formed in 1999.
It’s a song where the pop melody stands out alongside a beautiful choral ensemble.
Gatchaman SongShimon Masato
A classic song representing Showa-era anime hero series, it has captivated many with its exhilarating, fast-paced melody and grand lyrics.
The song leaves a strong impression with its sense of duty to protect the peace of the Earth and its portrayal of fighting with courage and passion.
Masato Shimon’s powerful vocals further elevate the work’s epic worldview.
Released as a single in October 1972, it was first used as the ending theme for the TV anime.
From episode 23, it was changed to the opening theme, becoming the series’ iconic track.
It has been included in numerous compilation albums and is hailed as a milestone in the world of anime songs.
With its powerful vocals and up-tempo melody, it’s perfect for bringing everyone together at parties and gatherings.
Burning HeroOkita Hiroyuki
A towering landmark of anime songs that sings of dreams and passion over samba rhythms and a catchy melody! This masterpiece briskly and humorously portrays the presence, skill, and influence of an ace player.
Hiroyuki Okita’s refreshing vocals brilliantly capture the allure of soccer and the throbbing energy of youth.
Released in 1983 as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime Captain Tsubasa, it became a classic that helped spark the soccer boom.
In 2018, it was remade by Ryuhei Maruyama of Kanjani Eight.
It’s a song that powerfully pushes the backs of everyone striving toward their dreams—not just soccer fans—and one we highly recommend you listen to.
SymphonyHirai Dai
Characterized by warm, heartfelt vocals and a grand orchestral arrangement, this gem of a love ballad gives voice to the universal longing for a hero and the resolve to protect the ones we cherish.
Infused with Dai Hirai’s perspective as a father, it carries a powerful message brimming with hope and love for the future.
Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – The Movie, it marked Hirai’s first theme for a live-action film.
The song is also included on his best-of album LOVE＋PEACE, released in May of the same year.
This track is perfect for new beginnings with someone special, pivotal moments in life, or any time you need the courage to face forward.
Wrapped in its warm vocals, it’s sure to help you take that first step toward tomorrow.