An uplifting anthem of love and courage. Recommended classics and popular songs that boost your spirits.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.

Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.

Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.

It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.

It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.

We AreONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK: We Are [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

This heartwarming rock number by ONE OK ROCK carries a message that empathizes with the anxieties and struggles of young people.

Garnering attention as NHK’s soccer theme song, the track is included on the album “Ambitions,” released in January 2017, and in December 2016 it achieved a collaboration with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds on NHK’s “18-Fes.” Blending the powerful energy of rock with pop elements, its exhilarating sound underscores the importance of living true to oneself and calls for the empowerment of youth.

Advocating that we can become beacons of hope, this song will gently encourage those seeking to boost their self-esteem or take that first step forward.

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.

Star Lablationkerakera

Kerakera – Star Liberation

A radiant pop tune by Kerakera, marked by its bright, bouncing beat and sparkling melody.

With plainspoken warmth, it gently embraces the feelings of a clumsy yet earnest protagonist who strives to face forward.

The courage to cherish one’s individuality, to take a step toward an ideal self even while uncertain, is truly moving.

Released in May 2013, it drew attention as the theme song for the Ryoko Shinohara–starring drama Last Cinderella.

It’s a supportive song that quietly stays by the side of anyone anxious about entering a new environment or hoping to convey their feelings to someone important.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Endless Journey / Mr.Children (Cover)

There are times in life when we feel lost or anxious and come to a halt.

But facing difficulties can become a wonderful life experience.

With that sentiment, Mr.Children released a song in October 1998.

Over a grand structure exceeding seven minutes, it powerfully and energetically sings of the wonder of living and the courage to take on challenges.

The song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna,” selling 516,000 copies in its first week and achieving an astonishing hit with over 1.07 million copies in total single sales.

It is a masterpiece that resonates deeply with those about to take a new step in life, those striving toward their dreams and goals, and those searching for their own path.

purplejoōbachi

“Purple” Official MV

This heartwarming work by Queen Bee powerfully sings of gratitude for meeting someone special and hope for the future.

Deep appreciation for the friends who offered support resonates through its distinctive worldview and melodic lines.

The song’s gentle vocals convey a commitment to human bonds and the embrace of diversity.

Included on the album Aku, released in March 2025, it was issued alongside “Mephisto,” the ending theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear when you want to feel the strength of not being alone, to think of someone dear, or to find the courage to take a new step.

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “At the Morning of Determination”

It’s the theme song for an anime and is very easy to listen to.

It’s a song that makes you feel like moving forward without giving up, no matter how tough things get.

If you want to live positively, you should definitely give it a listen.