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)

But you know, sometimesimase

[imase] But you know, sometimes (MV)
But you know, sometimesimase

This is a song by imase that gently conveys the importance of taking a breather in our busy daily lives.

With a soothing melody and warm vocals, it tenderly embraces the feelings of modern people who are so caught up in hectic days that they don’t even have time to gaze at the sky.

Released in July 2022 and written as the theme song for JT’s corporate ad series “Hitoiki Shūkan” (A Breather Habit), the track was included on the first EP, “POP CUBE,” and sparked conversation.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to spend time facing your own feelings, on the way home after a day of pushing yourself too hard, or whenever you want to calm your mind.

Blow Away the May Blues! Cheer and Energy Songs to Listen to in May (51–60)

sparkleFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Kirari (Official Video)
sparkleFuji Kaze

A refreshing pop tune woven from a driving Eurobeat sound and light, buoyant melodies! Fujii Kaze’s transparent vocals brilliantly capture a positive attitude that lightly overcomes life’s hardships.

While centered on romance, the song also celebrates the precious, shining moments in everyday life and the wonder of walking through life with someone you love.

It was written in May 2021 as the theme for Honda’s VEZEL commercial.

In December of the same year, he delivered a memorable remote performance from his hometown in Okayama at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a song that encourages you as you step into a new stage of life and stays close to your heart.

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.

EurekaHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Eureka [Behind The Scenes]
EurekaHoshino Gen

A song by Gen Hoshino that gently helps you face forward, quietly staying close to those who are struggling.

Its sound, where delicacy and strength coexist, is characteristically his, skillfully incorporating elements of jazz and soul.

Written as the theme song for the drama “Madoka, 26, Doing My Residency!”, this work is based on Hoshino’s own experiences and carries a message that gives people a push from behind.

Released for streaming in January 2025, it has also drawn attention for its music video directed by photographer Kotori Kawashima.

It’s a recommended track for anyone about to take a new step or seeking the courage to move forward.

Week EndHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Week End (Preview video listening with Gen Hoshino)
Week EndHoshino Gen

A pop tune by Gen Hoshino that captures the sense of freedom and release of the weekend.

With its shimmering horn section and groove-laden sound, it naturally draws listeners onto the dance floor.

Included on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” released in December 2015, it was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi Doyobi starting in October of the same year.

While depicting emotions that shift with the changing seasons, it gently reminds us of the importance of stepping out of the everyday to express our true selves.

It’s a perfect track to brighten your mood during a long-weekend drive or a day out.

LOSERYonezu Kenshi

A song by Kenshi Yonezu that leaves a strong impression with its portrayal of moving forward despite setbacks and self-denial.

The protagonist, who tends to see themselves negatively, accepts that state yet still tries to take action, and their straightforward sincerity is deeply moving.

Released in September 2016 and included on the album BOOTLEG, the track was also used in 2018 for Honda’s JADE commercial.

It’s a song I recommend to anyone who’s trying to face forward and keep going while carrying their own weaknesses and imperfections.

It will surely be a source of support on a Golden Week drive.