Recommended cheer-up songs for high school students: tracks that will motivate you to do your best on entrance exams and club activities when you listen to them.

SailingBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Sailing -Lyric Video- (「ONE PIECE LOG: FISH-MAN ISLAND SAGA」Ending Theme “Sailing”)

This is an ambitious work from BE:FIRST overflowing with upbeat messages and youthful passion.

Its powerful, hope-filled beat, melodies that sing of bonds with friends, and lyrics that convey determination for the future come together beautifully.

Showcasing the distinctive vocals of every member, this piece is sure to be a reassuring anthem for anyone striving toward their dreams.

Starting in November 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the Fish-Man Island arc of the TV anime ONE PIECE, and in February 2025 it was included on the double A-side single “Spacecraft / Sailing.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those chasing dreams with their friends or about to take a new step forward.

If you’re looking for a motivational song that gives you courage and hope, be sure to check it out.

OtonokeCreepy Nuts

Creepy Nuts – Otonoke [Official MV] [Dandadan Opening]

This Creepy Nuts track, which captivates listeners across generations from children to adults, was written as the opening theme for the anime Dandadan.

Its driving, fast-paced beat and emotional hook leave a strong impression, while lyrics themed around the occult and the supernatural enhance the song’s atmosphere.

Released as a digital single in October 2024, it was later issued on CD as well.

The song is also included on Creepy Nuts’ fourth studio album, Legion.

It’s a track that stokes your fighting spirit when you listen to it before an important game or competition.

Highly recommended for anyone who believes in the power of music.

Bloom with a pop, scatter, and turn to ashCreepy Nuts

[MV] Creepy Nuts – Bloom in a Flash, Scatter, and Turn to Ash

The official high school baseball theme song by Creepy Nuts portrays a heated, valiant, last-ditch battle.

Featuring a sound that evokes raw, rough-edged youth and lyrics that capture the resolve and determination of those who face the decisive moment, the track powerfully expresses the harshness and inner conflicts of the competitive world, as well as the passion of challengers.

Released in March 2022 as the official theme song for the 94th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament on MBS, it was later included on the album “Ensemble Play.” As a song that pushes everyone to step up to the big stage before them, it has resonated deeply with many listeners.

Spring SwallowHey! Say! JUMP

Hey! Say! JUMP – Spring Swallow [Official Music Video]

A heartwarming song that expresses the feelings of a refreshing new beginning through music has been delivered by Hey! Say! JUMP.

Created by members of sumika, the piece warmly encourages those striving in new environments, using the image of swallows returning in spring.

Also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Love All Play,” the song is included as one of the tracks on the triple A-side single released in May 2022.

It’s a song for anyone feeling anxious about a new setting, and for those who want to cherish their bonds with friends.

Love MySelfIS:SUE

Love MySelf

A refreshing pop dance track from IS:SUE.

It’s a warm song that gently conveys the importance of loving and believing in yourself, while staying close to feelings of anxiety and doubt.

The members’ lively vocals are striking, and the light rhythm and melody resonate pleasantly.

Released in February 2025, this work delivers a heartwarming message along with clear, airy vocals.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel like you’re losing your way or when you’re ready to take a new step.

It’s sure to become an encouraging anthem that softly and kindly gives you a push forward.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

A powerful song known as the opening theme of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.

It portrays Tanjiro Kamado—a boy who lost his family and fights to protect his sister—through intense rock rhythms and melodic harmonies.

LiSA’s strong vocals vividly capture an unyielding spirit in the face of adversity, gently encouraging listeners onward.

Since its release in April 2019, it has captured many hearts and become beloved across Japan beyond the anime itself.

It’s the perfect track for moments when you’re struggling, need to rally yourself, or want the courage to keep moving forward.

Let’s do our best.SMAP

[+81 DANCE STUDIO] SMAP – Let's Do Our Best / Performed by Travis Japan

This is a celebrated song by SMAP that extols tireless effort and an indomitable spirit, chosen as the entrance march for the 67th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Its bright, forward-looking message blends perfectly with a distinctive, groove-filled rhythm.

Immediately after its release in September 1994, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and was also used as the opening theme for “Naruhodo! The World.” The song became a major hit, selling over 720,000 copies.

It’s a track that gives courage and hope in the face of adversity—one that powerfully pushes you forward.