[For those doing their best] A collection of motivational cheer songs
I want to give it my all, but somehow I just can’t get motivated…
I’m sure everyone has felt that way at some point.
If you’re a music lover, moments like these might make you want to listen to some pump-up songs and think, “I’m ready to push a little harder.”
So in this article, we’ll introduce plenty of Japanese songs that will boost your motivation—tracks we’d love for you to hear.
Listen to the songs we’re about to share, and you’ll feel your energy steadily rising!
Don’t overdo it—let’s move forward with the power of music by your side!
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- Songs that make you feel positive when you listen. Top recommended cheer and positive tracks.
- Songs that help you work hard. Cheer songs for working people.
- [Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best
- An uplifting song with great lyrics. A wonderful, memorable message that stays with your heart.
- A collection of uplifting songs: positive tracks to support you
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- Anthems of Challenge: Uplifting Songs That Cheer You On to Take the Leap
- Songs that help you study hard: a roundup of motivational music to boost your drive and concentration
- Before a match or when you feel like giving up! Cheer songs to keep you going in club activities
- Definitely when you want a boost of power! Energetic songs recommended for Gen Z
- [Motivation Injection] Songs to listen to on days when you don't want to go to work
- [Today's Cheer Song] To everyone giving it your all! A gem of an inspiring anthem that resonates with the heart
[For those who keep pushing forward] A collection of motivating cheer songs (31–40)
LOSERYonezu Kenshi
“LOSER,” together with “NUMBER NINE,” was released as a double A-side single.
The song incorporates rap and is marked by a sharp, edgy sound.
The music video, shot in an empty classroom, seems to portray the emptiness and confusion of youth, while the lyrics feel like an encouragement: “Seize your own future with your own hands.”
Be kind to othersTHE BLUE HEARTS
Often cited as a flagship and legendary Japanese punk band, THE BLUE HEARTS are still frequently heard today—their songs have appeared in countless commercials, served as themes for dramas and films, and been covered by many artists.
The song “Hito ni Yasashiku” is likewise still very popular.
With lyrics that are uncomplicated and hit the heart straight on, it’s a warm track that fires you up and makes you want to be kind to the people around you.
Black sheepKeyakizaka46
A track renowned among fans as a god-tier song.
The lone black sheep symbolizes freedom.
The lyrics, which say it’s sad to kill your own opinions and just go along with a big organization, are incredibly empowering! The real world doesn’t always unfold as conveniently as it does in the song, but it’ll still give you energy and motivation.
Even if you don’t usually listen to idol songs, this one is highly recommended.
Soul RevolutionSuperfly
There are times when you want a song that pumps you up, one that speaks straight to your heart with a powerful vocal and really raises your spirits.
Those moments when you just want to feel strength and positivity without overthinking.
That’s exactly when I recommend this song, “Tamashii Revolution.” It’s a track that pushes you forward with unstoppable energy—powerful and uplifting in every sense.
It’s also strongly associated with NHK’s 2010 soccer theme and as a support song for the FIFA World Cup.
Don’t give upZARD
The classics truly are strong—this is a fail-proof song! It’s a signature cheer anthem of the ’90s, and for many people, when they think of ZARD, this song “Makenaide” comes to mind.
A powerful beat riding on the refreshing sound of a rock band, paired with Izumi Sakai’s vocals and empowering lyrics.
It has surely given listeners strength time and time again.
It’s often used as a theme song for sports like marathons, and listening to it might even make your everyday scenery look a bit more dramatic.
[For Those Who Keep Trying] A Collection of Motivational Cheer Songs (41–50)
peace signYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, whose wide-ranging work has made him a truly national singer, needs no introduction.
His song “Peace Sign,” released in 2017, is also the theme for the popular anime My Hero Academia, so many people likely associate it strongly with that series.
Its lyrics perfectly match the image of a protagonist who keeps pushing forward with all their might, making it a great anthem to cheer on anyone working hard every day toward their dreams and goals.
It’s a number that inspires the feeling that hard work pays off and motivates you to keep giving your best.
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu
It’s not a song about being upbeat or charging ahead, but rather a motivating one that says, “Endure it, and still let’s move forward, let’s keep walking.” Even as time passes, it never gets old—it’s an eternal classic.
Kyu Sakamoto is immortal.
I hope younger generations who don’t know this song will give it a listen.