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

Let’s say farewell to tearsMorita Kensaku

Let's say farewell to tears

It’s a classic whose clean, resolute lines—choosing not to show sorrow or frustration to others and likening them to the sky as if to wash them away—pierce the hearts of young people who put on a brave face and keep looking forward.

Packed with the brilliance and bittersweetness of youth, its melody brims with energy that feels like a powerful push on the listener’s back.

Released as a single in March 1971, it spread through living rooms as the theme song of the Nippon TV drama “Ore wa Otoko da!” starring Kensaku Morita.

Mirroring the straightforward protagonist devoted to kendo, this piece has become a timeless staple of motivational songs.

Especially recommended for the school admission season, when hope and anxiety are intertwined and you need the courage to take a new step.

It’s a track for anyone who wants to fire themselves up while feeling the heat of that era.

In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu

In the Great Sky and on the Vast Earth

Some of you may picture the majestic nature of Hokkaido.

This is an encouraging song about life by folk singer Chiharu Matsuyama.

After being included on the album “A Song Made for You,” released in June 1977, a newly recorded version was produced in 1998 as the B-side to the single “I Love You Most in This World.” Its powerful message—grab happiness with your own two hands—continues to spur on those who are trying to take on a challenge.

Featured on the soundtrack of the drama “The Ugly Duckling” and used in numerous commercials, it has become a long-loved standard.

As the school admission season brings a leap into new environments, be sure to give this classic a listen to blow away those anxious feelings.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

In spring, when new chapters begin, it’s reassuring to have music that gently gives a push to backs filled with both hope and anxiety.

This song, one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, is one you should listen to especially when starting school or a new life.

It was originally included on the album “Kampai,” released in September 1980, but a re-recorded version released as a single in February 1988 became a massive hit, selling over a million copies.

With a warm backstory—said to have been written to celebrate a friend’s wedding—it has been loved across generations, even being featured as the song for a Kirin Lager Beer commercial in 2010.

The blessings and encouragement woven into the lyrics are sure to be a powerful cheer for those embarking on the journey of life.

It’s truly a Japanese anthem of support, the kind you’ll want to sing arm in arm with friends during cherry blossom season.

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.

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?

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.

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.