Before an important exam or work, when you’re feeling down, or when you need that last bit of courage—why not let music cheer you on?
In this article, we introduce songs that send encouragement to those who are trying their best.
We’ve gathered a variety of cheer-up songs: tracks that empower you with strong messages and melodies, and songs that gently stay by your side while giving you strength.
Each one will send a “You can do it!” to you—whether you’re pushing forward or struggling to get back on your feet.
Give them a listen to recharge your heart and body.
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
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- Timeless songs that sing of hopes and dreams. Masterpieces that lead those who strive toward the future.
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- An uplifting song sung by a female artist. A track you’ll want to listen to when you need a boost.
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Cheer songs that give you the power to keep going (1–10)
Myself ROCKNEW!ONE OK ROCK
A ONE OK ROCK number that teaches us the value of staying true to ourselves without being swayed by the noise around us.
Riding on a high-velocity, energetic rock sound, its fiery message—urging you to live without lying to yourself—resonates deep in your chest.
Released in April 2010 as a TSUTAYA-exclusive rental, it was later included as the lead track on the masterpiece album “Niche Syndrome.” When you’re tired of reading other people’s faces, this anthem reminds you that the lead role in your life is, after all, your own.
Put it on when you want to blow away the haze and charge up your energy for tomorrow!
dance hallMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is a three-piece rock band that has gained popularity for their modern, highly original melodic sensibilities, spanning from their own original songs to tracks provided to other artists.
Dance Hall, included on their 4th mini-album Unity, was chosen as the theme song for the information program Mezamashi 8—an upbeat number perfectly suited to refreshing mornings.
Its message, reminding us that life holds not only hardships but also good things, helps blow away gloomy, negative thoughts.
With its clear, high-toned vocals that lift your spirits, it’s a modern pop tune through and through.
One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY’S is a two-person music unit known for their melodious rap and positive lyrics, and their 2021 return to activity also drew attention.
Their 14th single, “Ato Hitotsu,” which has been featured in various tie-ins including as the theme song for the digest documentary program Netsu-to Koshien, is recognized as one of their signature tracks.
Its message, which teaches the value of confronting your goals, can give you the power to rally when you feel like giving up.
With a lyrical melody that resonates deeply, it’s a pop tune that gives you the courage to take a step forward.
Jokyo TowerNEW!MOROHA
MOROHA is a rap duo that inspires listeners with fiery messages and cries from the soul.
Their song “Jokyo Tower,” included on the single “Jokyo Tower / Barairo no Hibi” released in December 2015 and later on the album MOROHA IV, is known as one of their signature tracks.
It’s a number that expresses the resolve and determination to leave one’s hometown and head for the battlefield that is Tokyo, performed with the bare minimum of just one acoustic guitar and one microphone.
Afro’s razor-sharp words and UK’s passionate playing give a powerful push to everyone chasing their dreams! Their stance—turning not only glittering success but even loneliness and anxiety into strength—will resonate especially with those leaping into new environments for school or work.
Take in the energy to believe in yourself and fight forward.
Go your wayNEW!Ryokushokushakai
An unknown world can be scary, but it’s exciting too, right? For kicking off a brand-new chapter, nothing fits better than Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s adrenaline-charged rock tune! Its thrilling sound—laced with elements of jazz and hip-hop—and Haruko Nagaya’s powerful vocals give you the courage to break new ground.
Released as a single in November 2022, it was written as the theme song for the NTV drama “First Penguin!”.
You’ve finished unpacking after your move, and tomorrow you’re heading to a new workplace or school.
Blow away the anxiety and take that bold first step together with this song, shall we?
YELLikimonogakari
Ikimonogakari is a duo that showcases their own color not only through original songs but also through cover tracks that have influenced them.
Their 15th single “YELL,” released as a double A-side with “Joyful,” was composed as the required piece for NHK’s Nationwide School Music Competition and is still beloved today as a classic graduation song.
Its message—holding the past close to your heart and stepping forward into tomorrow—gives a powerful push to anyone standing at a new starting line.
It’s a track that, true to its title, delivers an encouraging cheer, perfect for when your motivation toward your goals starts to wane.
EXILE PRIDE ~To Love a World Like This~EXILE
An exhilarating upper-tune marked by dynamic beats and soul-stirring vocals that gives listeners a powerful push forward.
It carries a straightforward message: face forward even in difficult times and move ahead with love.
Every time I listen, I feel a fire welling up deep in my chest.
Released as a single in April 2013, it was featured in numerous tie-ins, including commercials for Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical’s Air Salonpas and Toyota.
In December of the same year, it won the Japan Record Award and became the group’s first million-selling single—truly a classic etched in history.
It’s a song I highly recommend when you’re taking on a challenge or need to fire yourself up.