[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
- For When You Need a Good Cry: Soul-Soothing Tearjerker Classics — Life, Love, and Work
- [Deeply Moving] A Tear-Jerking Cheer Song: Popular Inspirational Anthems That Resonate with the Heart
- 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)
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.
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?
Aufhebung (Hegelian term often rendered as ‘sublation’)Mrs. GREEN APPLE
This song vividly portrays philosophical themes and the feelings of youth.
Featured on the album “ENSEMBLE,” it delicately expresses the process of growing by overcoming conflict and contradiction.
Released in April 2018, it strongly reflects youthful contemplation and inner struggle.
It’s a song that gently stays by your side when life feels difficult or when you’re uncertain about your purpose.
The light of hope woven by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE will surely illuminate your heart, even in the darkness.
Because you are hereUru
A gem of a ballad that sings of deep love and gratitude for someone precious.
Released in February 2020 as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Ship of Theseus,” it is also included on the album “Orion Blue.” Though clumsy and unable to put feelings into words perfectly, it conveys a heartfelt message that must be expressed, along with gratitude for the person who stays by your side unchanged even in difficult times.
The powerful yet clear vocals brim with warmth, as if gently nestling close to the listener’s heart.
It’s a song you’ll want to send to someone dear who feels lonely due to illness or anxiety, together with the message: “I’m always thinking of you.”
Time-lapseThe Back Horn
THE BACK HORN’s new song delivers a powerful, heart-stirring message.
It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who has experienced parting with someone important, set against an emotional performance.
Masashi Yamada’s strong vocals are a perfect match for the lyrical world woven by Shinji Matsuda.
Released in September 2024, this track is the third installment in a concept single themed around light and shadow.
Many listeners will surely relate to the determination to look forward while carrying thoughts of what’s been lost.
Give it a listen when you’re feeling down or when you need a boost.
NonfictionHirai Ken
This is a gem-like ballad by Ken Hirai that powerfully portrays the profound sorrow of losing a close friend and the struggles of life.
Its tender, moving sound centered on acoustic guitar and Hirai’s rich, lustrous vocals gently envelop the heartfelt longing for someone lost.
In the music video, filmed at an amusement park at night, dancer Takeki Kudo’s striking performance gives visual form to a cry of the soul.
Released in June 2017, the song also drew attention as the theme for TBS’s Sunday drama “Chiisana Kyojin” (A Small Giant).
This work resonates deeply with those grieving the loss of a loved one or standing at a crossroads in life, offering a song that truly stays close to the heart.
BOYKing Gnu
King Gnu, a band leading Japan’s rock scene, wrote “BOY” as the opening theme for the anime Ranking of Kings.
The song portrays pressing on toward the future without giving in to hardships or pain.
Rather than intense rock, it has a gentle feel that will both encourage you and help you relax.
Be sure to check it out together with the music video, which unfolds like a moving drama.