[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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[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (31–40)
I’m your hero.After the Rain
Unlike the heroes on TV, this song is filled with down-to-earth charm.
Its warm lyrics, which stand by those who’ve been doing their best on their own and cry with them in sad times, resonate deeply.
After the Rain’s soothing harmonies further enhance the song’s lyrical world.
This track is the title song of the album “I’m Your Hero,” released in October 2023, and serves as the crowning piece of their third full-length album—their first in five years.
The delicate vocals and powerful melodies woven by Soraru and Mafumafu remind us of the beauty of having someone who can be there for your heart through music.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on sleepless nights or when you feel like you might break.
I am a heroSTEREOPONY
Included on the 2011 album “More! More!! More!!!.” It was used as the ending theme for the anime Pokémon Smash!.
STEREOPONY is a three-piece rock band from Okinawa, formed in 2007.
The pop sound and vocals fit perfectly, resulting in a nicely polished track.
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.
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.
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.
[Longing] A roundup of popular Japanese songs about heroes (41–50)
HeroesMomoiro Kurōbā Zetto
It’s a song filled with hope and courage.
It was also used as a cheering song for the Japanese team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
With its powerful melody and positive lyrics, it resonates deeply with listeners.
It’s included on the album “Idola” and was released as a single in November 2021.
The music video features striking images of athletes.
The song speaks about the strength to face hardships and the importance of believing in your ideals.
It’s a recommended track for times of uncertainty or when you want to cheer someone on.
Be sure to listen for Momoiro Clover Z’s powerful vocals, too.
Muddy HEROkimaguren
Included on the 2010 album “ALIVE.” It was selected as a support song for the 2009 film “Feel the Wind.” Kimaguren is a two-person music unit from Kanagawa Prefecture, formed in 2005.
This track features twin vocals that weave in rap over a lyrical melody line, with beautifully resonant harmonies.