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

Butter-FlyWada Kōji

Butter-Fly – Kouji Wada (Full) (Digimon Adventure OP)

A full-throttle Koji Wada number that lets you slam the gear in from the very start of the song! Though Wada sadly passed away in 2016 due to illness, this track he released in 1999 has never lost its shine and remains beloved.

It was used as the opening theme for the anime Digimon Adventure, and people who were kids back then still keep listening to it even as adults! In the lyrics, the listener is compared to a butterfly, offering courage by saying that no matter how unreliable your wings may seem, you can still spread them and fly.

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Starrrrrrr[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] / starrrrrrr feat. GEROCK

This vivid song portrays a journey of the heart in search of hope, beginning with a single beam of light in the darkness.

Set to an emotional rock sound crafted by [Alexandros], it powerfully sings of hesitation, suffering, and the will to face forward.

Included on a single released in January 2013 and produced as a tie-in with Sapporo Beverage’s natural sparkling water “GEROLSTEINER,” the track brims with passion born from summer festival experiences.

With its driving rhythm and melody that makes full use of a wide vocal range, it’s sure to energize any school festival or karaoke session.

If two people sing it, you can split the high and low parts, so it’s also great to try with a friend.

It’s okaywacci

wacci “Daijoubu” Music Video

This is a heartwarming medium-tempo ballad by wacci that gently conveys the importance of embracing both tears and smiles as the colors of life.

Written and composed by member Yohei Hashiguchi, it carefully weaves the deep feelings embedded in the everyday phrase “daijoubu” (“It’s okay”).

Released in August 2015, the song was used as the theme for the TBS drama 37.5°C no Namida.

While life presents many challenges, it reminds us that the process of overcoming them and growing is itself an irreplaceable time.

It’s a warm song that offers sincere words of encouragement to those who may feel ashamed of showing vulnerability or tend to carry burdens alone.

countrysideTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Rural Landscape” (HD)

A heartwarming, soul-stirring masterpiece filled with encouragement for those burdened by fatigue and worries.

Drawing from his own experience overcoming mental instability, Koji Tamaki carefully portrays the inner cries that everyone carries.

Released in July 1996 as his 11th solo single, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Coach.” That same year, he made his first appearance at the 47th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where his performance deeply moved viewers at the time.

Highly recommended for anyone feeling lost or anxious in life, or for those who want to encourage someone dear to them.

The Zero Sense10-FEET

10-FEET – The Zero Sense (Ending Theme Song of the Film 'THE FIRST SLAM DUNK')

A rock tune that powerfully conveys the determination to keep pursuing a passion and dream for basketball.

Alongside the emotional melodies delivered by 10-FEET, it carefully depicts the bittersweetness of youth and the spirit of taking on challenges.

The characters portrayed through sports mirror those striving toward their goals, overflowing with a charm that invites deep empathy.

Included on the album “COLLINS,” the song was released in December 2022 as the ending theme for the film “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK,” showcasing a new frontier for the band.

When you need the courage to face the obstacles before you, or when you want to keep moving forward without giving up on your dreams, it’s sure to become a powerful anthem of support.

Something like “happy”Sabasusutā

Sabasister – “Happy Nante” Music Video

This is a Sabasister track that delivers a heartwarming message—reexamining the happiness hidden in everyday life—set to a refreshing melody.

The lyrics capture the small joys scattered throughout ordinary days from a fresh perspective, sure to resonate with many listeners.

Produced as the tie-in song for the new au Santaro series commercial “Minna de Hapiro!” that began airing in January 2025, it’s a hopeful piece perfectly suited to the start of the new year.

Following their major-label debut with the album “Kakugo o Kimero!” the band’s prowess shines even brighter in this release.

It’s a recommended song for moments when you want to pause amid a calm daily routine and simply feel happy.

The reason for deep breathingAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Reason to Breathe Deeply' Music Video

It’s a warm, uplifting rock tune.

Aqua Timez’s “The Reason to Breathe Deeply” was written specifically for NHK’s Minna no Uta to be aired in February and March 2025.

The song conveys the importance of stepping away from the hustle and bustle when you’re tired and taking time to face yourself.

It’s a gentle yet powerful track that feels like a reset button for the heart when you’re walking a difficult path.

Please give this emotional number a listen—it’s sure to resonate with those striving through their everyday lives.