Songs to listen to when you're feeling down. Recommended feel-good, uplifting tracks.

Progresskōkua

Progress

This is a song by the band kōkua, led by Shikao Suga, created for the TV program “Professional: Shigoto no Ryugi” and released in 2006.

Even if you can’t become the cool version of yourself you envision, it’s a song that prompts you to look back on the footsteps you’ve taken and helps you come to like yourself.

Baby Don’t CryAmuro Namie

Baby Don’t Cry – Namie Amuro (Full)

Released in 2007 as Namie Amuro’s 32nd single.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Tuesday 10 p.m.

drama “Himitsu no Hanazono,” it’s a moving medium-tempo pop number that is bittersweet yet radiant, one that “makes you feel happy.” It carries the message that some things remain unknowable no matter how much you think and worry about them—so all the more reason to stay positive.

It’s a song that helps you look forward.

YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki

Hideki Saijo – Young Man (Y.M.C.A.)

Hideki Saijo, who was known as one of the “New Big Three” alongside Hiromi Go and Goro Noguchi, was a top idol of the 1970s.

He was born in Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

One of his signature works is his cover of Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.,” which was a huge hit in America at the time.

His powerful vocals and the choreography that makes everyone want to dance are enough to lift your spirits just by watching.

hummingIkuta Rira

Rira Ikuta “Humming” Official Music Video

A pop song marked by Rira Ikuta’s gentle vocals that loosen the heart, like a cat’s yawn in the morning light.

It softly encourages us to notice the small moments of happiness in everyday life and to be kinder to ourselves.

Set to a brisk, pleasant melody, it empathetically captures the stress and inner struggles of people living in modern society, while emphasizing the importance of rest.

Released in June 2024 as the new theme song for Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi Doyobi,” this track accompanies the warmth of a morning’s start.

It’s a soothing song recommended for those who want to pause amid their busy days and honor their own pace.

NakedSPYAIR

SPYAIR『Naked』

It’s a powerful, message-driven song that stresses the importance of being your true self while facing life’s loneliness and hardship.

Even as it wrestles with the distance between oneself and others, its forward-looking attitude—gradually opening one’s heart—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a rock track that makes full use of a band sound, with SPYAIR’s signature, forceful performance and vocals that resonate deeply.

Released in September 2012, this work served as the lead single for the album “Just Do It” and was also used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV show “Futtonda.” It encourages you to accept yourself as you are and gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

Say it[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Say It (MV) @ALEXANDROSchannel

This song is included on the single titled “Ie,” which was released on July 20, 2011.

As the title suggests, the lyrics are mostly in Japanese, and it’s a strongly message-driven track that gives you a boost of energy—like a reassuring push on the back—as you listen.

RirurariruhaKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura “Rirura Riruha” [short ver.]

This is a song from when Kaela Kimura was a bit closer to being an idol than she is now.

It’s a wonderful track where her cute yet powerful vocals shine against a solid, heavy guitar sound.

The lyrics are characteristically upbeat and positive, and even when you’re feeling down, just listening to this song will lift your spirits.