[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
[For Your Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (91–100)
WINDKōda Kumi
It was released in 2006 as Kumi Koda’s 29th single.
Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s coverage of the Athens Olympics, it was issued as a strictly limited edition of 50,000 copies.
Amid its pop sound, the forward-looking lyrics—urging you to face the wind—offer courage.
Liberated zonePorunogurafiti
Porno Graffitti’s 25th-anniversary single is a song that portrays human connections and the ebb and flow of emotions.
It sings of hope in a desolate world and the stories that emerge from it.
While acknowledging dark nights and hardships, it conveys the importance of finding meaning in living and discovering small lights.
Released on March 27, 2024, the song carries a powerful message of not losing hope even in difficult circumstances.
It’s a track to listen to when you hit a wall in life or need the courage to look forward.
I believe it will surely become a source of support for your heart.
three mon coinsMOROHA
MOROHA is a musical duo gaining attention for their unique ensemble that layers rap over backing consisting solely of acoustic guitar.
Their song Sanmonzen, included on their second album MOROHA II, was featured as an insert song in the film Ice Cream and the Sound of Rain.
Its message—encouraging you to move forward by your own will rather than waiting for a chance—may give a supportive push to those seeking the courage or reason to hang on.
With tight instrumentation and a lyrical vocal delivery that pierces the heart, it’s a track to listen to when you feel like quitting your job.
Traveler Pursuing DreamsElefanto Kashimashi
This song, with Hiroji Miyamoto’s characteristically passionate vocals making a strong impression right from the start, isn’t about a trip or an adventure, but about the journey of life.
As the title suggests, it’s crafted as a pep song for those walking toward their dreams and goals; when you’re on the verge of losing heart, listening to it will make you think, “I’m not giving up yet—I’m moving forward!” You can’t help but relate to the resolve to keep going while looking back on the path taken so far.
Comparing life to a long journey, this song is sure to resonate with many listeners, don’t you think?
Because you can do it someday, you can do it today.Nogizaka 46
Nogizaka46 is an idol group that debuted as AKB48’s official rival and has since become the leading force among the subsequent Sakamichi groups.
Their 19th single, “Itsuka Dekiru Kara Kyou Dekiru,” which has multiple tie-ins including the theme song for the film Asahinagu, likely has a title that will jolt anyone who tends to put things off.
Its lyrics remind us of the importance of seeing through what we decide to do, becoming the drive to chase dreams we were on the verge of giving up on.
With crystalline vocals and a pop ensemble that lifts your spirits, it’s a comfortable, upbeat tune.
Cheering Song feat. MOOMINShonan no Kaze
Shonan no Kaze are always by our side, cheering us on.
Sometimes they raise their fists high to fire us up; other times they gently give us a push on the back—their style of encouragement is ever-changing.
This song, “Ouenka feat.
MOOMIN,” is one you’ll want to listen to when life wears you down.
“Don’t give up on your dreams—what happened to the bold, spirited you?” It holds up your faltering heart with a powerful boost.
This manly pep song—like an older brother or a father— is a must-listen for those long, contemplative autumn nights.
If you don’t want to give up on something, give it a spin!
To My AdolescenceAka-hoho Shishunki (BOL4)
A healing song by BOL4 (Bolbbalgan4) that wraps the delicate emotions of adolescence in acoustic tones.
It gently traces the emotional journey from days tormented by loneliness and self-denial to gradually finding hope with the passage of time.
Included on the September 2017 album “Red Diary Page.1,” this work made the Melon Music Awards’ Top 10 for three consecutive years, Korea’s largest music awards.
Alongside the crystalline vocals, it brings into sharp relief the complex feelings of sensing parental love yet being unable to accept it straightforwardly, and the image of youths who shrink under the gaze of those around them.
When you feel on the verge of losing yourself, listening to this song will surely let a ray of hope shine into a heart filled with loneliness and anxiety.