[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
[Supporting the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (81–90)
No way I’m going to cry.ikimonogakari
Ikimonogakari, who boast a wide range of hit tunes from lyrical ballads to upbeat pop numbers.
Their 16th single “Nakumonka,” used as the theme song for the film Nakumonka and in the Hataraku-iku commercials, is memorable for its straightforward vocals carried by acoustic guitar.
Its warm lyrics, which seem to wrap around a wounded heart, may give you the courage to stand up again when times are tough.
It’s a song whose sentimental melody gives you a push forward and supports you when your spirit feels like it might break.
IchibanboshiSnow Man
This is a message song by Snow Man that expresses the determination to keep moving forward even when your heart feels like it’s about to break.
A medium-tempo ballad, it features a warm melody and stunning harmonies that showcase the individuality of all nine members.
The lyrics carefully portray a shift in emotion—from the pain of being unable to accept even words of encouragement to a feeling of gratitude toward those who offered support.
Included on the album “i DO ME,” released in May 2023, the song has maintained strong popularity among fans.
It gently accompanies anyone striving toward a dream or hoping to support someone else.
possibilitySambomasutā
This song was the theme for the movie “Flying Colors” (Biri Gyaru).
It ties in with the film’s story and powerfully pushes you forward with a message of “Don’t give up!!” The appeal of Sambomaster’s lyrics is that no matter how beautiful the words are, they never come off as hypocritical or shallow—they carry warmth and strong conviction.
It’s a supportive anthem filled with kindness and love, one I want you to listen to when you’ve experienced setbacks and feel like your heart is about to break.
aimlesslyAimer
Aimer’s 22nd single, released in 2023, is “Ate mo Naku.” It’s a ballad overflowing with gentle warmth, written as the ending theme for the anime Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage.
It feels like it’s telling you, “You don’t have to push yourself too hard—just be who you are,” and it really hits home when you listen.
It carries Aimer’s message of wanting to warm each person’s heart, so definitely give it a listen!
Attitudekohanaramu
Kohanaramu, who rose to fame after posting videos on YouTube, has a title track on her first album called “Attitude.” The song is also known as the theme for the drama “DIY!! – Do It Yourself -.” In it, she sings about continuing to take on challenges without losing heart, even after repeated failures.
Its appeal lies in the realistic portrayal of inner vulnerability.
Listening to it will surely give you courage.
spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota
This song features a warm, gently enveloping melody and delicate lyrics that sink into the heart.
With vivid imagery of nature woven throughout, it tenderly expresses feelings for loved ones and hopes for tomorrow.
Tota’s clear, transparent vocals resonate as if to stay close to those feeling anxious, kindling a light of hope.
Released in February 2023, the track received heavy rotation on 37 radio and CS stations nationwide.
It also drew attention as a tie-in song for Kanro’s “Pure Gummy” web commercial.
When you or someone important to you is feeling anxious due to illness, don’t carry it all alone—let yourself be touched by gentle feelings.
This is a supportive song that quietly stays by your side when your heart feels unsteady.
[For Your Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (91–100)
heartbeat soundMiura Daichi
Created as the official TEAM JAPAN cheer song for the Paris Olympics, this track uses athletes’ heartbeats as its theme to express the effort built up second by second over a lifetime and the challenges that lie ahead.
Daichi Miura’s powerful vocals and beats resonate with the athletes’ racing hearts and move the listener.
Fencer Kazuyasu Minobe and gymnast Daiki Hashimoto have both said the song is a great source of encouragement.
Released digitally in July 2024, this single is perfect for anyone about to take a step toward a new challenge.
It will surely give you a push forward.