An idol-sung cheer song: A roundup of recommended tracks that lift your spirits when you listen

The Sun and the Desert RoseTOKIO

[+81 DANCE STUDIO] TOKIO – Rose of the Sun and Desert / Performed by Johnnys’ Jr.

Set to a powerful rock sound, this song belts out the fiery feelings hidden deep in the heart.

Even in tough times, it conveys a strong will to keep dreams blooming in your chest and press on without sparing any effort.

It evokes an unwavering vitality, like a flower blooming in a vast desert.

Released as a TOKIO single in August 2009, it served as the theme song for the drama “Kareinaru Spy” starring Tomoya Nagase.

The energetic sound made the drama even more exciting, which left a strong impression.

It was also performed at the 60th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year, likely captivating many viewers.

When you need the courage to take on challenges or the strength to face difficulties, this song will surely give you a push.

It’s like a passionate cheer that makes you think, “Let’s do our best!”

The Sun’s Smileshōnen ninja

From Shonen Ninja [Sunshine Smile] Arena Concert 2024: The Shining Star

This is Shonen Ninja’s first original work, featuring a bright, refreshing sound as radiant as the sun.

The song carries a passionate message that encourages listeners: no matter what hardships you face, keep moving toward the light—steady effort will always open the way.

In 2022, they also created a heartwarming music video, produced and edited by the members themselves.

When you’re taking a new step or feeling a bit down, their straightforward vocals will give you a powerful push forward.

from hereSixTONES

SixTONES – From Here [YouTube ver.]

Even if life is ordinary, let’s keep looking forward and moving ahead without giving up.

That passionate message stands out in SixTONES’ track.

Released in June 2023, the song fuses hip-hop and breakbeats into a powerful sound, over which all six members deliver heartfelt rap verses.

Chosen as the theme song for the NTV Sunday drama “However, There Is Passion,” it topped the Oricon weekly singles chart.

The music video became a massive hit, surpassing 100 million views in September 2023.

When you feel like stopping in front of a wall, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to take a new step.

After all, I’m an idolKoizumi Kyoko

Kyoko Koizumi – NANTETTATTE IDOL (Live at Nakano Sunplaza Hall, 2022.3.21)

A witty song by Yasushi Akimoto that portrays the ideal and reality of idols with humor! Released in 1985, it was Kyoko Koizumi’s 17th single and was also used as the commercial song for Fuji Photo Film’s Cardia camera.

While presenting a fresh take on how idols were viewed at the time, it skillfully depicts the emotions swaying between the image of a pure, clean-cut idol and a private self.

A gem of a pop tune that brings both laughter and empathy to everyone who loves idols.

one after another; in rapid successionAnjurumu

ANGERME 'One by One, One after Another' (Promotion Edit)

Message songs themed around encounters, farewells, and change resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in April 2016 as one track of a triple A-side single, this piece uses the themes of member graduations and additions in ANGERME as its motif, offering the courage to embrace the many partings and changes that fill everyday life in a positive light.

It’s a fast-paced dance number that fuses electronic sounds with funk rhythms, and it’s a staple that always gets the crowd fired up together at live shows.

It’s also a meaningful work as it became the final single for then-member Meimi Tamura in 2016, and its innovative music video, which made extensive use of a 360-degree camera, drew significant attention.

Highly recommended for those about to take a new step forward or anyone who wants to keep moving ahead without fearing change.

GONGSixTONES

SixTONES – GONG [YouTube ver.]

This is a high-energy anthem that charges toward victory, fusing powerful sound with fiery vocals.

Its positive message—“I don’t want to lose, I won’t give up”—carries a compelling force that only the six members of SixTONES can deliver.

Released in July 2024 and featured as an insert song for the Nippon TV drama ACMA:GAME, the track is marked by siren-like guitar riffs and a heavy beat.

Before an important match or decisive moment, and when gearing up to fight alongside your teammates, this song is sure to ignite anyone’s fighting spirit.

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.