Timeless songs that stay close to your heart when times are tough. Uplifting tracks with gentle lyrics that really sink in.
What kind of music do you listen to when you’re going through a tough time?
When work, studying, busyness, or relationships wear you down, it can get hard to take in words.
But listening to wonderful music can give you energy, right?
Gentle messages that stay by your side, sounds that softly wrap around you, and bright moods can soothe the heart.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic songs that can ease that kind of pain.
Try listening while you take a break and want to lift your spirits.
May your heart be lit up, even if just a little.
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Masterpieces that comfort the heart when times are tough. Uplifting songs with gentle lyrics that resonate (21–30)
You can do it!Nakajima Miyuki
Miyuki Nakajima’s iconic song is one that stays close to the heart, the kind you want to listen to in tough times.
Born from a listener’s concern shared on a radio show, the song carries a message of encouragement for those facing adversity.
Released in May 1994 as a double A-side single with “Between the Sky and You,” it quickly drew attention after being featured in a Sumitomo Life commercial.
It is also included on the album “Yokan” (Premonition).
The lyrics, which empathize with people striving to overcome the hardships and pains of life, give courage and hope to many.
When you’re hurting or on the verge of breaking, listen to this piece and let it be your support.
It will surely give you a gentle push to take your next step.
filamentOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism’s songs can be so empowering—many of them really hit you in the heart.
“Filament” is one of those tracks that gives you the strength to look forward, and it’s included on their 2021 album Editorial.
Fujihara’s clear, expansive vocals seem to gently support a tired heart and soothe painful feelings.
When you’re feeling down after a failure or unsure about what to do next, this is a song that will surely give you strength.
Masterpieces that comfort your heart when times are tough. Uplifting songs with gentle lyrics that really sink in (31–40)
Yes I amONE OK ROCK
Known as a rock band Japan proudly presents to the world, ONE OK ROCK has continued to lead the forefront of the J-POP scene.
“Yes I am,” a track included on their fourth album Niche Syndrome, features a powerful rock ensemble that really amps you up.
The lyrics overflow with a positivity that never doubts the path one believes in, likely stirring the heart when it feels like breaking on the way toward dreams and goals.
It’s a driving rock tune with a refreshing sense of speed, whose message seems to affirm the meaning of being born and blows away painful feelings.
Negative FighterHey! Say! JUMP
I just can’t seem to shake the negativity—I’m so passive… The song that blows those feelings away is Hey! Say! JUMP’s “Negative Fighter.” It’s a single released in 2021, and its funky beat makes it an incredibly fun track.
The lyrics cheer you on by accepting negativity while encouraging you to enjoy things as you are, and they really lift your spirits.
Being positive isn’t always the best answer, and this song is perfect for tough times! The distinctive choreography was created by the TikTok-famous group, ATARASHII GAKKO! The cute sounds are a joy too, and it puts you in the mood where there’s no time to be down—a signature Hey! Say! JUMP feel-good song.
tear(s)HY
The artist name HY comes from the name of the town Higashiya-Keina where the members are from.
Both their songs that bring Okinawan flavor to the forefront and those that don’t are great, aren’t they? Here’s one of HY’s full-throttle cheering songs, “Namida” (Tears).
The lyrics gently embrace your tired heart, saying, “It’s okay to cry and shed tears; that’s how people become stronger,” and they’re soothing, too.
When I listen to this song, I’m reminded that everyone needs someone who’s always by their side—whether that’s a parent, a sibling, a friend, or a lover.
I’m sure it will make you think of someone precious to you as well.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to with a handkerchief at the ready.
Theory of the Mindful HeartRADWIMPS
A heartwarming song by RADWIMPS that stays by your side during life’s tough times.
It portrays a protagonist weighed down by self-doubt and anxieties about relationships who, through meeting someone special, finds their heart cleansed and awakens to a new self.
Released in July 2006, the song is also included on the album “RADWIMPS 4: Okazu no Gohan,” and is beloved by many fans as one of the band’s signature tracks.
It’s a must-listen for anyone grappling with worries or feeling lost in life.
Its gentle melody and profound lyrics will stay close to your heart and give you courage.
The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP
It’s a song I can be proud of.
How many people in Japan were saved by this song that sings about how beautiful we are precisely because we’re all different? To a child who feels complexed about being different from others, it says: that’s a unique seed of a flower that only you possess.
All you need to do is devote yourself to making it bloom.
What a truly saving song this is.