Recommended cheering songs for men: classic and popular J-Pop tracks

Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

This song is imbued with a warm gaze and deep respect for people who usually remain out of the spotlight.

Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.

It is an ode to unsung heroes who keep making efforts in various places, shining like stars in everyday life.

Released in July 2000, the piece was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s documentary program Project X: Challengers, and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.

It set a record by staying on Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.

It is a song that gives you a powerful push forward in those moments when the pressures of daily life make you want to stop.

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.

50%Ofisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – 50% [Official Video]

As a pep song dedicated to people who tend to push themselves too hard in modern society, Official HIGE DANDism’s gentle message strikes a chord.

It speaks to us with a grand, gospel-tinged sound, encouraging us to face forward at our own pace without overexerting ourselves.

Written as the theme song for the film Cells at Work! released in December 2024, the piece gives voice to those living in an era where endless competition is the norm.

It also harmonizes beautifully with the film’s worldview and its message of “taking care of your own body.” It’s best enjoyed while relaxing in front of a smart speaker.

When you want to soothe a tired mind and body, when you feel like treating yourself kindly, this song will surely be by your side.

Raise your flagMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION 『Raise your flag』

A rock number brimming with overwhelming speed and energy! A signature work by MAN WITH A MISSION that sings of the courage to stand by your convictions and face adversity.

Released in October 2015, it was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans.

Featuring powerful strings and a distinctive two-beat sound, the song made a strong impact, reaching No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart and earning Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

It’s also included on the album The World’s On Fire and continues to be a live staple.

When you want to forge your own path or overcome a major obstacle, listening to this track is sure to give you a push forward.

Perfect-Sense DreamerONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK "The Totally Sensational Dreamer"

An aggressive rock number by ONE OK ROCK that champions valuing instinct over logic and the importance of always pushing forward! Its powerful vocals and driving sound will inspire anyone who listens.

The track was selected as the ending theme for the TBS TV program “Arabikidan,” and upon its release in February 2010, it reached No.

9 on the Oricon weekly chart—marking the band’s first-ever Top 10 entry.

It’s the perfect song to boost your motivation during a workout, delivering a fiery message that feels like it’s telling you, “Now’s the time to get moving!”—sure to ignite your determination.

NIPPONShiina Ringo

Sheena Ringo – NIPPON

This is a powerful cheering song by Ringo Sheena, released in May 2014 as the theme song for Japan’s national soccer team.

Included on the album Hi Izuru Tokoro, it features a rock sound infused with traditional Japanese elements, creating an energetic track that lifts the spirits of viewers.

With lyrics invoking words like “banzai” and “departure for battle,” the song conveys the weight of kanji, expressing Japan’s tradition and pride while delivering a passionate message that inspires the courage to take on challenges.

Chosen as the theme for NHK’s soccer-related programs and used during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the song drew considerable attention.

If you listen when you need to fire yourself up, it’s sure to give you a push.

sonetACIDMAN

ACIDMAN – sonet Music Video (WOWOW “W Series Drama: Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Competition Arc” Final Episode Ending Theme)

Within its grand melody, this song holds both the resolve to live boldly and a gentle tenderness.

Set against the vast nature of Hokkaido, it portrays life’s joys and sorrows through the moon and stars shining in the night sky, and the falling rain and snow.

Along the journey of chasing dreams, it leaves a deep afterglow that quietly speaks to the importance of living true to oneself.

The track was pre-released by ACIDMAN in December 2024, with the CD following in January 2025.

Chosen as the ending theme for the final episode of WOWOW’s drama “Renzoku Drama W Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Contest Arc,” it is also complemented by striking footage shot on location in Hokkaido by film director Shigeaki Kubo.

When you stand at a crossroads in life or face an important decision, this is a song that will stay close to your heart.