RAG MusicUplifting Songs
A wonderful upbeat song

Blow away the May blues! Cheer songs and feel-good tunes to listen to in May

May is when the new lifestyle finally starts to settle down a bit, isn’t it?

With the first long holiday of the new fiscal year behind us, many people may find it hard to get motivated due to a mix of getting used to things and feeling a little worn out.

That’s probably the May blues!

In this article, we’ll introduce uplifting Japanese songs we recommend to anyone struggling with the May blues.

We’ve selected a wide range—from tracks that instantly boost your mood to songs that soothe a tired heart—so if you tend to fall into negative thinking during May, be sure to check these out!

Blow away the May blues! Cheer and feel-good songs to listen to in May (41–50)

Katsushika RhapsodyYum!Yum!ORANGE

Yum!Yum!ORANGE – Katsushika Rhapsody – Yum Yum version
Katsushika RhapsodyYum!Yum!ORANGE

A cover of the theme song from the anime “Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo.” The original is by Kohei Dojima.

Dojima is an artist who’s second to none at capturing everyday scenes.

His melodic sense is wonderful, too.

The cover is by Yum Yum Orange, a ska band from Nagoya.

The result is an absolutely fantastic chemical reaction.

If you’re too busy to make it back to your folks’ place, let this song help ease the tension in your shoulders.

Beloved tomorrow, a moment and a lifetimeGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Our Beloved Tomorrow, A Moment and a Lifetime
Beloved tomorrow, a moment and a lifetimeGReeeeN

This is a positive song by GReeeeN that teaches us how important it is to build up small steps to move toward a brighter tomorrow.

Its lively, march-like sound is striking, and the upbeat rhythm seems to express a rising sense of elation.

The lyrics, which feel like they ask what each of us has been working hard on, are also memorable, encouraging us to look back on what we’ve accumulated and giving us a reason to believe in ourselves.

From the sound to the vocals, the song carries a consistently positive and bright atmosphere, and it feels like the kind of track that can lift your spirits when you’re feeling down.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

This song, which delivers a message filled with hope and courage, is GReeeeN’s major-label debut, released in January 2007.

It’s an encouragement anthem that stands beside those facing life’s hardships.

The simple yet powerful melody blends perfectly with the relatable lyrics, giving listeners the courage to take a step toward the future.

When you need the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to face forward.

Brilliant RainKing Gnu

It’s a song whose musicality and message soak into your heart as if rain were pouring down in brilliant showers.

Released by King Gnu in July 2022, the piece paints a grand soundscape where violins, cello, organ, and female chorus intertwine with a noisy guitar sound.

The gentle yet powerful vocals, imbued with hope and resolve for the future, deliver a soothing sensation that feels like it washes away life’s hardships.

Written as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Old Rookie” and included on the album “Stardom,” this is a track we hope those facing turning points in life will take to heart.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to during the rainy season in May.

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE

A heartwarming anthem that vividly captures the feelings of facing the anxieties and uncertainties of youth.

Set to a refreshing melody, it gently conveys the importance of embracing your true self.

With a sound packed with pop-rock elements and a powerful vocal performance, this is a striking track.

Produced as the theme song for the special NHK General program “18-sai Matsuri” aired in December 2024, it garnered major attention after being performed together with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation.

When you feel like you’re losing your way, or when you need the courage to take a new step forward, this song will be a reassuring companion.

AmbitiousSuperfly

Superfly 『Ambitious』Music Video
AmbitiousSuperfly

An uplifting song for working adults that also became a hot topic as the theme for the drama “I Will Not Work Overtime, Period!” Many listeners were likely encouraged by its gentle lyrics that tell us, “There’s no need to rush—take it slow.” It’s a track that exudes Superfly’s signature warmth and compassion, wrapping up those post-holiday blues in a comforting embrace.

Westside soul!WEST.

WEST. – Wessai Soul! [Official Music Video]
Westside soul!WEST.

A funky soul number packed with Kansai spirit.

WEST.’s track channels the “never give up” mindset through its sound.

It’s their 24th single, set for release on May 7, 2025, and has been chosen as the theme song for the comedy film “Backroom Employee: They’ve Got Me Doing Spy Stuff.” All the members star in the movie, and the story and the song blend beautifully.

Its energetic groove and powerful vocals make it perfect for anyone who needs a boost to face tomorrow.