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!
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Blow away the May blues! Cheer and feel-good songs to listen to in May (1–10)
Dear, boyHump Back
This is Hump Back’s major-label debut song, an anthem that sings of challenging your dreams and holding onto hope.
With a powerful sound and lyrics that resonate, it gently gives a warm push to those facing setbacks and anxieties.
Created with thoughts of the bandmates from their high school days, the track was featured as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “BUZZ RHYTHM 02” in June 2018 and as the theme song for Kumamoto Asahi Broadcasting’s coverage of the 102nd National High School Baseball Championship Kumamoto Tournament, capturing the hearts of many.
If you listen to it in moments when life in a new environment wears you down, or during times when motivation is hard to find, you’ll feel the energy to face tomorrow welling up inside.
BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi
A passionate anthem crafted by Kenshi Yonezu.
With a racing melody that feels like the instant an arrow is loosed, it brilliantly portrays protagonists who, despite setbacks, keep moving toward their dreams.
A piece that captivated live audiences, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.
The lyrics, evoking the bonds of characters who support each other like a bow and arrow, and the dynamic sound give listeners the courage to overcome the anxieties and doubts everyone carries.
When your resolve to chase your goals starts to waver, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to take a new step forward.
Happinessarashi
Despite being hailed as a “national group” for their success beyond music, the five-member idol group Arashi announced a hiatus in 2020.
This is their 20th single, which was used as the theme song for the TV drama Yamada Tarō Monogatari and is known as a staple at their concerts.
The lyrics, which evoke a vision of a new future, are likely to give hope and courage to those about to enter the workforce.
With its exhilarating arrangement, this positive number feels like it walks alongside you as you take a new step forward.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
A heartwarming rock tune by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, packed with the sweet-bitter flavor of youth and the anticipation of growth.
Centered on memories with loved ones and the finiteness of life, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” which began airing in April 2024, and went on to win the 66th Japan Record Awards in December of the same year—achieving the remarkable feat of back-to-back victories.
It offers comfort to those feeling anxious or lonely in a corner of the city, giving them the courage to face forward while embracing their own imperfections.
When the start of a new chapter leaves you feeling low, listening to this track may lighten your heart and help you take a fresh step forward.
Rolling DaysWANIMA
A youthful rock tune that captures the quiet of early morning and the restlessness within.
WANIMA powerfully conveys young people’s anxieties, conflicts, and their strong determination to move forward, riding on a brisk, fast-paced melody.
It’s a warm song that feels like a close friend walking beside you—comforting troubled hearts and cheering them on.
Created as an anthem for high school students devoted to their clubs and studies and released in August 2024, this track gently supports those feeling tense or uneasy in new environments, as well as anyone striving toward their dreams.
The Beautiful Days of HumanitySambomasutā
Sambomaster is a three-piece rock band.
Their first single is “Utsukushiki Ningen no Hibi” (“The Beautiful Days of Human Beings”).
In the song, they powerfully sing a message of looking back on the past while choosing to face forward and live on.
By all means, listen to it while reflecting on your own days.
Incidentally, this track is also known for its incredible live performances.
Be sure to check out the live recordings, too—you’ll get to enjoy an even more passionate vocal delivery.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
This is a powerful message song that gives you the courage to rise again and again when faced with trials and setbacks.
With DREAMS COME TRUE’s pop yet grand sound, it’s a track that radiates dazzling hope.
Released in February 2005, it drew attention as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours (Season 3).” With a powerful vocal performance that underscores the importance of an “unyielding heart,” it reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
In 2011, thanks to its strong, uplifting message, it became the most-played Japanese song on radio stations nationwide.
When your heart feels like it’s about to break, or when you need the courage to move forward, listening to this song will help you take a new step.