[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 giving it your all] A collection of motivational cheer songs (51–60)
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.
The train called lifeBaba Toshihide
The balance between the lively rhythm and the weighty lyrics is exquisite.
I recommend it for people in their 30s and 40s! The world is often a place where hard work doesn’t pay off, but if you listen to this song to the end, you’ll have a good cry, smile, and feel ready to face the headwinds.
Whether you’ve already walked a long track in life or are just starting out, this song is sure to lift your spirits!
IdeaHoshino Gen
This is a masterpiece by Gen Hoshino that I especially want you to listen to when you’re feeling a bit low.
Released in August 2018, the song was used as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Half, Blue.” Its structure is captivating, unfolding from a buoyant, marimba-based intro into a gentle first verse.
His warm voice gives you a soft push forward.
The positive worldview—one that seems to turn even the sound of rain into song—will surely lighten your heart, whether on your commute to work or school, or as you stand before an important challenge.
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.
[For those who keep pushing] A collection of motivational cheer songs (61–70)
Outlineimase
The powerful song by imase, depicting young people’s challenges and growth, was finally released in October 2024.
Written specifically as the support anthem for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, the track features beautiful strings, a sing-along quality, and a driving beat.
Its grand, dramatic sound and progression are truly stirring.
The lyrics, “Run toward your goal,” reflect imase’s own high school experiences, carrying an emotional message that resonates deeply.
It’s perfect for those facing difficulties or taking their first steps toward a new challenge.
Heaven and Earth ReversalNICO Touches the Walls
The song Tenchi Gaeshi, which was used as the theme song for the popular anime Haikyu!! depicting the achievements of a boys’ volleyball team, is the 15th single by NICO Touches the Walls, released in 2014.
Theme songs for stories set in the world of sports often convey a strong determination to face hardship and to get back up after a fall.
This track is no exception: its fiery, revenge-pledging lyrics resonate perfectly with the story and deliver a motivational punch.
A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
This is the fifth single by the music group FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, known for producing many hit songs with their catchy mellow rap and pop melodies.
It was featured as an opening theme for variety shows and as an insert song in films, and its uplifting lyrics have made it a fan favorite.
The lyrics inspire you to feel that your limits are far from reached and boost your motivation—perfect for cranking up your energy when you need to give it your all.
