[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 (161–170)
countrysideTamaki Kōji
A heartwarming, soul-stirring masterpiece filled with encouragement for those burdened by fatigue and worries.
Drawing from his own experience overcoming mental instability, Koji Tamaki carefully portrays the inner cries that everyone carries.
Released in July 1996 as his 11th solo single, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Coach.” That same year, he made his first appearance at the 47th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where his performance deeply moved viewers at the time.
Highly recommended for anyone feeling lost or anxious in life, or for those who want to encourage someone dear to them.
from hereSixTONES
Even if life is ordinary, let’s keep looking forward and moving ahead without giving up.
That passionate message stands out in SixTONES’ track.
Released in June 2023, the song fuses hip-hop and breakbeats into a powerful sound, over which all six members deliver heartfelt rap verses.
Chosen as the theme song for the NTV Sunday drama “However, There Is Passion,” it topped the Oricon weekly singles chart.
The music video became a massive hit, surpassing 100 million views in September 2023.
When you feel like stopping in front of a wall, listening to this song will surely give you the courage to take a new step.
As a personSUPER BEAVER
A gem-like ballad that sings of the strength to face forward while confronting human frailty.
As SUPER BEAVER’s first attempt at a ballad, it beautifully blends a grand arrangement featuring strings with Ryota Shibuya’s powerful vocals.
Released in June 2016, it appeared on the album “27.” It was chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Sono ‘Okodawari,’ Watashi ni mo Kureyo!!” aired the same year, and later used in 2021 as the CM song for Asahi Beer’s “Asahi Super Dry.” This song continues to warm the hearts of many, sincerely supporting those who are struggling and lost, yet striving to move forward in life.
When it shinesHitsuji Bungaku
Life and death, light and darkness, eternity and impermanence.
By portraying opposing worlds, this song by Hitsujibungaku brings out the beauty of life.
It features a powerful message that resonates with those who are on the verge of losing hope, along with a gently enveloping sound.
Released digitally in January 2022, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime The Heike Story.
It stands beside those who strive to look forward even in suffering or who are searching for the meaning of life, softly speaking to the dignity of never giving up.
If you call it loveUru
A gem-like ballad by Uru that leaves a strong impression as it reflects on a relationship with a precious person that was on the verge of being lost.
It served as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “My Family” and was released in June 2022.
The song conveys a resolve to recognize past mistakes and restore bonds, as well as the strength that arises precisely because there is something to protect.
Centered on a simple, piano-led arrangement interwoven with strings, it resonates deeply with listeners’ emotions.
It is a gentle piece that quietly stays by your side when you feel you might lose sight of what matters in life or when you’re hoping to mend a relationship with someone.
Super BallTOMOO
A message song from TOMOO that carries the resolve to live without losing a sincere heart, even while bearing the bitterness and conflicts of adulthood.
It’s a warm track that urges listeners to free a mind that tends to turn inward when trying to live earnestly, and to cherish their true selves.
Featured on the album “TWO MOON” and released in September 2023, the song was also chosen as the theme for the news program ABEMA Prime.
Its bold piano arrangement and TOMOO’s expansive vocals leave a strong impression, and in early 2024, it was selected as the No.
1 Best Song of the Year by music producer Junji Ishiwatari on the TV show Kanjam Kanzen Nen SHOW.
It’s a deeply affecting, emotional song to listen to when you’re tired of everyday life or feel like you’re losing yourself.
pure whiteFuji Kaze
Set to a bossa nova–styled rhythm and the warm sound of acoustic guitar, this emo-tinged track seeps gently into the heart with its calm, tender vocals.
While singing of pure feelings and a longing for an innocent heart, the lyrics portray the unavoidable farewells and the process of growth in life, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in February 2025, the song was written specifically for I LOHAS’s new commercial, “Surely Tomorrow Will Feel Just Right,” and is marked by a fresh, natural atmosphere.
Kaze Fujii, who has studied piano since childhood, has earned high acclaim for his albums HELP EVER HURT NEVER and LOVE ALL SERVE ALL.
It’s a recommended listen for quiet moments or when you want to gather your thoughts.