[Support for the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough
In life, tough and painful times are bound to come, and you’ll likely experience major setbacks as well.
In those moments, many people find it hard to carry everything alone, yet don’t quite feel like talking to someone either.
At times like that, letting music gently stay by your side is something I recommend.
In this article, I’ve gathered songs that can give you strength when you’re going through hard times.
From timeless classics to the latest hits, I’ve picked a variety—so please find the support song that’s just for you.
- [For those doing their best] A comforting song to listen to when you're tired of life
- [Songs to Listen to When You Want to Die] I want to disappear... A song to support you who feel that way
- Timeless songs that stay close to your heart when times are tough. Uplifting tracks with gentle lyrics that really sink in.
- [Songs Portraying Strong Women] Positive Tracks to Listen to When You’re Feeling Discouraged
- Take the first step!! Songs that give you courage, songs that make you persevere when you listen
- [Dark Songs] A carefully curated selection of deeply dark tracks and heartbreaking songs that accompany you in tough times
- Songs to listen to when you’re feeling down! Tracks that boost your self-confidence
- [Moving] Tear-jerking cheer song. A roundup of popular motivational anthems that resonate with the heart!
- For When You Need a Good Cry: Soul-Soothing Tearjerker Classics — Life, Love, and Work
- Timeless songs that sing of hopes and dreams. Masterpieces that lead those who strive toward the future.
- A famous song about setbacks. A song that stays by your side when times are tough or you feel like giving up.
- [Today's Cheer Song] To everyone giving it your all! A gem of an inspiring anthem that resonates with the heart
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
[Sustaining the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage to Listen to in Tough Times (71–80)
leap day personRADWIMPS
Known as the theme song for the film “The Last 10 Years,” this track resonates deep within the heart.
With their one-of-a-kind lyrics and melodies, RADWIMPS portray both human fragility and strength, prompting listeners to reflect on the meaning of life.
This work is an encouraging anthem that gently stays by your side when you’re feeling down and gives you strength.
The story where the emotions of Maeri and Kazuto intersect teaches us the preciousness of life, making it an unforgettable masterpiece once heard.
Released in March 2022, be sure to listen to this song when you’re going through tough times or need support.
I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.Sambomasutā
When you feel on the verge of giving up, this song by Sambomaster will support your heart.
Characterized by its fiery message and powerful sound, it was released in February 2010.
Written specifically for Nissan’s Serena commercial, it has continued to encourage people in a variety of situations ever since.
In 2018, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama Cheer☆Dan, resonating with even more listeners.
Takashi Yamaguchi’s straightforward lyrics give you a push, making you feel you can overcome any hardship.
It’s a must-listen for anyone feeling anxious before a new challenge.
I thought about killing myselfNakajima Mika
Mika Nakashima’s track “I Thought About Dying” stands out with its striking, impactful title.
Written and composed by Hiromu Akita, the vocalist and guitarist of amazarashi, the song has also been self-covered by Akita himself.
The protagonist of this song finds themselves contemplating death for many reasons—ranging from trivial matters to events that weigh heavily on the heart.
Yet in the end, meeting someone precious frees them from those feelings.
Life can be painful, and at times we may feel like disappearing, just like the protagonist.
But as long as we have someone important—or something that truly matters to us—we can make it through.
When things feel unbearable, listen to this song and think of the people or things you hold dear.
[Supporting the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (81–90)
GloriousBE:FIRST
BE:FIRST is a seven-member boy group formed through an audition hosted by music producer SKY-HI.
Their fifth digital single, “Glorious,” was selected as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
Its message—that while pursuing your dreams and goals can be tough, there’s something to be gained beyond the hardships—offers powerful encouragement not only in sports but to anyone who keeps striving.
It’s an emotional power song with a grand ensemble that will move your heart.
Pride RevolutionCHiCO with HoneyWorks
CHiCO with HoneyWorks, a collaboration unit between a singer and a creator team, has earned widespread popularity.
Their third single, Pride Kakumei, which was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Gintama, boosts your spirits with vocals tuned to a rock sound and a high-velocity ensemble.
Its lyrics teach you to face what truly matters, regardless of your current abilities, giving you the courage to overcome any obstacle.
It’s a heart-stirring rock tune that powerfully encourages you when you feel like you’re about to break.
The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP
A song that gently embraces people’s hearts was released by SMAP.
It warmly accepts the feelings shared by anyone troubled by competition or comparison with others, and carries a message that affirms living in a way that’s true to yourself.
Written and composed by Noriyuki Makihara in less than an hour, the piece has been cherished as an anthem that celebrates the beauty of each person’s individuality.
Since its release in March 2003, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and reached a total shipment of 3.23 million copies.
It was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Boku no Ikiru Michi” (The Way I Live), resonating with many.
It’s a timeless song to listen to when you feel you’re losing sight of your own worth or when you want to take a new step forward.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
This song portrays the hardships and setbacks in life, and the journey of overcoming them to grasp hope.
It beautifully expresses the light that awaits beyond tears no one sees and the sweat shed in silence, woven with melodies and words that deeply resonate with listeners.
Released by Yuzu in July 2004, the song was chosen as NHK’s official theme for the Athens Olympics, and, together with the moment the men’s gymnastics team won gold, it became etched in the memories of many.
Loved as a cheer song for everyone striving toward their goals, it continues to offer support: to those taking steady steps toward their dreams and to those confronting the walls before them.
As a piece that accompanies the important moments of life, it delivers a powerful, heartfelt message that truly resonates.