[Support for the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough

RE:I AMAimer

RE: I AM / Aimer covered by Inui Toko

A grand rock ballad by Aimer that sings of the pain of loss everyone experiences in life, and the strength to keep looking forward.

Her voice, which reaches deep into the listener’s heart, fervently conveys a call to a precious person who has been lost.

While dealing with heavy themes such as war and parting, it leaves a strong impression with its stance of finding hope in the small lights that exist in everyday life.

Released in March 2013, the song peaked at No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was used as the ending theme for OVA Mobile Suit Gundam UC episode 6, and as the opening theme for episode 18 of Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn RE:0096.

This is a song that offers comfort and support to those who have lost someone dear and are on the verge of losing their sense of purpose in life.

NakedSPYAIR

SPYAIR『Naked』

It’s a powerful, message-driven song that stresses the importance of being your true self while facing life’s loneliness and hardship.

Even as it wrestles with the distance between oneself and others, its forward-looking attitude—gradually opening one’s heart—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a rock track that makes full use of a band sound, with SPYAIR’s signature, forceful performance and vocals that resonate deeply.

Released in September 2012, this work served as the lead single for the album “Just Do It” and was also used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV show “Futtonda.” It encourages you to accept yourself as you are and gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

Resolution on the Seventh DayUVERworld

UVERworld “Determination on the 7th Day vol.02”

Based on a scene seen in a dream, this moving song questions the fragility of life and the meaning of living.

It speaks as if to remind us that “even in an imperfect state, people can find happiness” and that “change can begin right at this very moment.” Released in June 2014 as UVERworld’s 26th single, it was also included on the album Ø CHOIR and reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

In live performances, it is positioned as a key track that creates a sense of unity with the audience.

This work gently stands by those who feel uncertain about their own worth or struggle to take the first step toward change.

ElfAdo

[Ado] Elf

A powerful performance by Ado that resonates as an anthem for those who carry loneliness yet keep moving forward.

Released in January 2025 as the theme song for the drama “Who Watched the Peacock’s Dance?”, this work brilliantly captures the world of the series starring Suzu Hirose.

While staying close to the feelings of a protagonist who continues a solitary struggle, it sings of the preciousness of living true to oneself, making it a song that deeply touches the hearts of those weary from work or life.

It’s an encouraging track we especially recommend to anyone feeling lost or anxious in their daily life, or to those who have paused midway on their own path.

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “At the Morning of Determination”

Aqua Timez, who have captivated many listeners with their melodious sound and lyrics that resonate with the heart, released this ambitious work as their major-label debut single in July 2006.

While acknowledging one’s true, unvarnished self yet still choosing to face forward and keep walking, the song makes a striking impression and can also be seen as a challenge to a modern society obsessed with perfection.

It deftly expresses the doubts and anxieties felt while chasing dreams, as well as the resolve to grow.

Chosen as the theme song for the animated film “Brave Story” and earning the band a spot on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it became a social phenomenon.

It’s a song that feels like a gentle push on your back when you’re at a crossroads in life or on the verge of losing your way—warm, encouraging, and truly a source of strength for the heart.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – “Nando Demo”

This is a powerful message song that gives you the courage to rise again and again when faced with trials and setbacks.

With DREAMS COME TRUE’s pop yet grand sound, it’s a track that radiates dazzling hope.

Released in February 2005, it drew attention as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours (Season 3).” With a powerful vocal performance that underscores the importance of an “unyielding heart,” it reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

In 2011, thanks to its strong, uplifting message, it became the most-played Japanese song on radio stations nationwide.

When your heart feels like it’s about to break, or when you need the courage to move forward, listening to this song will help you take a new step.

Love MySelfIS:SUE

Love MySelf

A refreshing cheer song that gently nudges people to take their first step toward a challenge.

IS:SUE’s brisk melodies and soft harmonies stay close to the listener’s heart.

Set for release in February 2025, this work powerfully sings about the importance of believing in yourself, even as it touches on feelings of anxiety.

Riding on a danceable, pop sound, it delivers a message of self-affirmation in down-to-earth words.

For those feeling uneasy before a new chapter or unsure about their choices, it will surely bring warm courage to their hearts.