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 really resonate (1–10)
MagicMrs. GREEN APPLE
It’s a track defined by a heartwarming melody and lyrics.
Included on the album “ANTENNA,” it was released early in June 2023.
Chosen as Coca-Cola’s summer campaign song, it drew widespread attention.
With the signature strength and tenderness of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, its lyrics feel close to the listener’s heart.
It has resonated with many people, surpassing 100 million streams.
It’s perfect for those trying to overcome tough times or looking to face forward and do their best.
Listening to this song will surely give you the courage to face tomorrow.
sunflowerAdo
Ado, a new-generation singer who began her career as a vocalist and has gained worldwide popularity, has released her 21st digital-only single, “Himawari,” which was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “18/40: If It’s the Two of Us, Dreams and Love Alike.” The lyrics, which convey a message about wanting to change little by little while being enveloped in great love, naturally lift your spirits just by listening.
Her voice, which carries strength within its softness, gently accompanies feelings of hardship in this emotional track.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE’s “Nando Demo” teaches us that nothing is more important than not giving up.
It was a huge hit as the theme song for the TV drama “Kyumei Byoto 24-ji” (Emergency Ward 24 Hours), and even now it’s beloved by many as a message of encouragement to people going through tough times.
Miwa Yoshida’s warm yet powerful vocals deliver the song’s “Don’t give up” message straight to the heart.
It’s a track I especially want those who feel “I don’t know what to do anymore” to hear.
Your difficult situation may continue, but it will definitely come to an end.
We don’t know when that will be, but until then, please don’t give up.
Don’t give upZARD
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call ZARD’s “Makenaide” a national cheer song! It’s an uplifting anthem heard in all kinds of situations.
The simple phrase “Don’t give up” really gives you a push.
It’s a song I want you to listen to when you’re under crushing pressure or nerves—like when you’ve been entrusted with a big project at work or have a must-win game.
Listening to this track will remind you that you’re not alone.
Think of the people cheering you on, and you’ll find the strength to give it one more try!
ResonantiaAimer
Singer Aimer, whose one-of-a-kind voice has been described as possessing the extremely rare combination of simultaneous amplitude and frequency fluctuations, continues to captivate fans.
“Resonantia,” included on her seventh album Open α Door, dazzles with the contrast between jazzy piano and a soulful melody.
Its lyrics, which encourage you to move forward with confidence in your choices, may give you the strength to rise again when times are tough.
It’s a modern pop tune whose driving ensemble lifts your spirits.
Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO
A SHISHAMO number that gently supports the hearts of people struggling through each day.
It’s included on the album “SHISHAMO 4.” We all have those times when we’re working hard at our jobs or at school, yet things don’t go well and we’re left feeling frustrated.
But this song depicts imagining the hero within yourself and finding the will to try again tomorrow.
Released in February 2017, it was also used in an NTT Docomo commercial.
The music video shot at Todoroki Athletics Stadium is memorable as well.
With its pop melody, it’s a song that gives energy to both adults and children who carry everyday worries and feelings of discouragement.
If being alive is painfulNEW!Moriyama Naotaro
It’s a ballad whose shocking opening line makes everyone doubt their ears—and then captures their hearts.
Sung by Naotaro Moriyama, who frames the world from a unique perspective, this masterpiece lays bare both the pain and joy of living.
The lyrics, written by poet Ochanomizu Kazu around 1997, were turned into a song after Moriyama happened upon them.
Released in August 2008 as his 16th single, it also drew attention as the CM song for Shuto Iko, Osaka Isen, and Nagoya Isen.
Its paradoxical wording delivers a message that affirms “living,” one that should especially resonate with those carrying deep worries.
Rather than forcing yourself to be cheerful, why not listen quietly on a night when you want to face your heart with calm?