Popular Cheer Songs for Karaoke | A Selection of Uplifting Anthems That Give You a Push

Don’t give upZARD

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

When it comes to the ultimate cheer song, many people probably think of this number.

With lyrics penned by Izumi Sakai, this classic teaches us the importance of seeing things through to the very end.

Released as a single in January 1993, it became beloved as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” It’s also well known from the spring National High School Baseball Invitational’s march and as a motivational anthem for the 24-Hour TV marathon.

There’s even an anecdote that the chorus lyrics were revised during production to make them more positive.

Sing this song when you’re feeling down or need one last push, and courage will naturally well up inside you.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

A gem of a ballad by Yuzu, etched in memory alongside the moving scenes of the Athens Olympics.

Released as a single in 2004, it served as NHK’s theme song for its Athens Olympics broadcasts and wrapped all of Japan in emotion.

Its warm message—honoring the unseen struggles and tears, and the days of perseverance that overcame countless hardships—resonates deeply with anyone single-mindedly striving toward a dream.

Belt it out at karaoke, and you’ll not only lift your own spirits but also gently encourage your friends beside you.

A true anthem for life.

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

A signature Skunk Switch number whose effervescent piano tones burst from the intro and fill listeners with energy.

Released as a single in April 2005, it has colored countless moments, serving as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the Japanese end song for the movie “Onward,” among others.

It has been loved for many years since its release because it carries a universal message.

The lyrics express a positive resolve to cast off the shackles of the past and carve out the future with one’s own hands.

It’s a perfect song for those moments when you want to sweep away hesitation and charge forward at full power.

Runnerbakufū suranpu

Bakufu Slump - Runner (High Quality)

That intro alone is enough to raise your body temperature—surely everyone’s heard it at least once.

A signature song by Bakufu Slump, this rock number captivates with its exhilarating drive and fiery message.

While it paints scenes from a track-and-field club, the behind-the-scenes story that it actually sings about parting ways with a band member is especially moving.

Released as a single in October 1988, it was also included on the album “HIGH LANDER.” At the time, it became widely known through its use as background music on the TV show “Genius! Takeshi’s Genki ga Deru TV!!” When you need a push on your back, why not belt it out at karaoke?

FanfareTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Fanfare” MUSIC VIDEO (Theme song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘The Royal Family’)

This is a rousing anthem powerfully sung by Koji Tamaki, famed for his overwhelming vocal prowess, riding on a melody full of drive and momentum.

Released as a single in November 2025, it was chosen as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “The Royal Family.” Drawing on his childhood experiences in Hokkaido and paralleling life with the growth of a horse, this work was created with those images in mind.

Its message—that life isn’t only about winning or losing, and that it’s important to face forward and move on as your true self—resonates deeply with listeners.

Pick this song when you need that extra bit of courage at a crucial moment.