Fight songs from the good old days! Showa-era classics you should listen to when starting school

My RevolutionWatanabe Misato

Misato Watanabe “My Revolution” (taken from ‘Live EPIC 25 -20th Anniversary Edition-’)

This song, imbued with a powerful, forward-looking message, sings of reevaluating oneself and sparking an inner revolution.

It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, along with a sense of loneliness, discovers a strength that is uniquely their own, appealing to the importance of the strength to chase dreams and to find a way of life that is true to oneself.

Released in January 1986 and reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts, it is also known as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sailor-fuku Dori.” When you need courage to dive into a new environment, this is a track that will give you a push.

With Misato Watanabe’s powerful vocals, why not take the first step into a new chapter of your life?

Life’s journeyMisora Hibari

A Life’s Journey (Recorded in 1982)

Released in January 1970, this song was created as the theme for the film “Hana to Namida to Honoo” starring Hibari Misora and Shinichi Mori.

Celebrated as a classic of the Showa era, it is a gem that sings of courage and hope in the face of life’s hardships.

Hibari Misora’s powerful voice resonates deeply with listeners.

Since then, it has remained one of her signature songs, beloved by many.

It’s a piece I especially recommend to anyone stepping into a new environment and feeling anxiety or doubt.

Even when confronted with difficulties, it will give you the courage to keep moving forward on your own path.

You can do it!Nakajima Miyuki

Go for it!

This is a song you’ll want to listen to when taking that first step into a new chapter, like starting school.

The powerful message woven by Miyuki Nakajima gives you the courage to face adversity.

Featured on her 1983 album “Premonition,” the track was later used in a 1994 Sumitomo Life commercial.

More recently, it appeared in TV commercials for Calorie Mate, becoming a beloved anthem of encouragement across generations.

It’s especially recommended for those facing difficulties or feeling anxious about a new environment.

Miyuki Nakajima’s warm voice is sure to give you a gentle push forward.

For me to be myselfOzaki Yutaka

[Official] Yutaka Ozaki “To Be Who I Am” (LIVE CORE IN TOKYO DOME 1988-09-12) [Track from the 1st album ‘Seventeen’s Map’] YUTAKA OZAKI / MY SONG

This song powerfully expresses the cries of young hearts.

It explores themes of self-identity and one’s relationship with society.

Included on the album “Seventeen’s Map,” released in December 1983, it has remained one of Mr.

Ozaki’s signature works, beloved by many.

It is recommended for those who need the courage to face society while staying true to themselves—especially students stepping into new environments.

Each listen will remind you of the importance of confronting your true self.

Oneway GenerationHonda Minako

Oneway Generation – Oneway Generation

A classic song that captures the moment where the radiance of youth intersects with uncertainty.

It powerfully portrays young people walking a road without a map, giving them the courage to take a step onto a new path.

Minako Honda’s crystalline vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 1987, it was also used as the theme song for a TBS drama.

Highly recommended for those starting a new chapter in life or searching for their own way.

Listening to this piece will surely give you the courage to look ahead.

March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)

Known as a classic from the Showa era, this song gives listeners the courage and hope to take a new step in life.

Its lyrics carry the message that small daily efforts lead to great achievements—perfect for the mixed feelings of anxiety and anticipation that come with starting school.

Released in November 1968, the piece was widely loved and even chosen as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Championship.

With Kiyoko Suizenji’s bright, powerful vocals, it will gently encourage all who are embarking on a new chapter in life.

There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto – There’s Always Tomorrow

It’s a classic song that sings of the clumsiness and hope of youth.

It portrays the protagonist’s feelings in love and the courage to take on challenges without fearing failure.

Kyu Sakamoto’s warm vocals enhance its positive message.

Released in 1963, it later gained renewed attention when it was used in a Japan Coca-Cola commercial.

In 2002, it was also selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

It’s a recommended track for those stepping into a new environment or struggling with love.

Each listen is sure to stir up hope.

YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki

Hideki Saijo – Young Man (Y.M.C.A.)

This is a song that delivers an energetic, uplifting message.

Aimed at young people, it gives them the courage to pursue their dreams.

Hideki Saijo’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 1979, it held the No.

1 spot on the Oricon charts for five consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, selling 1.808 million copies.

This work is perfect for those starting a new chapter in life or standing at a crossroads.

It’s also ideal for boosting motivation or getting pumped up with friends.

Saijo’s passionate, heartfelt singing is sure to lift your spirits.

Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako

Takako Okamura “Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Known for its heartwarming lyrics and melody, Takako Okamura’s signature song gives a gentle push to those embarking on a new chapter, such as entering school.

Though originally written as a breakup song, its universal message resonates in many situations.

Released in 1987, the track was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s information program “Time 3” and as a commercial song for Musashi Prep School, earning broad support across generations.

Singing of passion for dreams and the courage to overcome hardships, this piece is perfect for anyone starting a new life.

As you step onto a new stage in life, why not listen to this song and draw strength from it?

Be kind to othersNEW!THE BLUE HEARTS

THE BLUE HEARTS – Be Kind to People

A classic that’s been at the core of the band since their indie days and has continued to be loved long after their major-label debut.

Hiroto Kōmoto’s earnest vocals and straightforward encouragement deeply move everyone who listens.

Although it was released as a single in 1988, it was also used as an insert song for the 2002 TV drama “Be Nice to People” and as a jingle for the Calorie Mate commercials, making it popular across generations.

Included on best-of collections like “SUPER BEST,” this piece shines with a universal brilliance that transcends the punk genre.

In the school admission season, when hope and anxiety mix, listening to this song will surely give you courage.

It’s a powerful track that will firmly push you forward as you take your first step into a new environment.