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)
PreludeMr.Children
Mr.
Children keeps creating songs that become cherished memories for listeners of every generation, from middle and high schoolers to grown-ups.
Their track “Prelude” is one I highly recommend to anyone feeling discouraged.
The lyrics, built around the concept of “Nothing starts if you just worry—just move forward,” are filled with the gentle warmth that’s so characteristic of Mr.
Children.
With its uplifting, bright melody, it’s a must-listen if you haven’t heard it yet! What’s more, this song cleverly weaves in references to many of Mr.
Children’s past songs within the lyrics.
It’s included on the 2011 album SENSE.
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.
Masterpieces that comfort your heart when times are tough. Uplifting songs with gentle lyrics that really sink in (31–40)
Seesaw Game: A Ballad of Brave LoveMr.Children
This song brilliantly captures the complex emotions of love.
The lyrics convey a heart that sways like a seesaw, one-sided feelings, and the courage to keep moving forward despite it all.
This work, Mr.Children’s tenth million-selling single, was released in August 1995 and reached number one on the Oricon charts.
It’s also interesting that it was created with Elvis Costello in mind.
It’s especially recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are struggling with unrequited love.
Listening to this track will surely give you the courage to overcome the pains of love.
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.
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.
Don’t forget that smile.ZARD
My top recommendation for a ZARD classic that lifts you up when times are tough is this song! It’s so beloved by fans that it’s included on many best-of albums, and it was one of Izumi Sakai’s own favorites: “Ano Hohoemi o Wasurenaide” (“Don’t Forget That Smile”).
It was first included on their third album, HOLD ME, in 1992.
Sometimes, those nostalgic memories are what keep us going, right? This is a coming-of-age song that makes you picture those happy days.
Izumi Sakai’s gentle lyrics set to a beautiful melody give you so much courage.
It’s refreshing yet tinged with sadness—the kind of beauty that mirrors the feeling of wanting to move forward even when it hurts.
DiamondBUMP OF CHICKEN
This is their second single overall and their major-label debut.
It’s a song that makes you want to cherish yourself.
When things are tough, we tend to deny ourselves, but I hope you’ll listen to it at such times.
The gentle yet strong-willed vocals will quietly stay by your side.