[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.
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- 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 the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (171–180)
The BeginningONE OK ROCK
An empowering anthem that gives a strong push toward a hope-filled future.
Through the protagonist who keeps searching for a reason to move forward, this song gives you the courage to overcome setbacks and hardship.
Featuring ONE OK ROCK’s powerful sound and passionate vocals, this memorable track was released in August 2012 and gained attention as the theme song for the film Rurouni Kenshin.
The film and the song’s worldview harmonize beautifully, movingly depicting the protagonist’s resolve to face the past and take a new step forward.
When you stand at a crossroads in life and feel anxious about the future, listening to this song is sure to give you a supportive push.
GuildBUMP OF CHICKEN
A masterpiece that deeply questions the meaning of life and one’s own worth has been making waves.
The ballad released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in November 2006 is a work that expresses the self by likening life to a “job.” Its meticulously crafted guitar riffs and delicate vocals weave a melody that gently stays with the listener, evoking profound empathy.
The piece was also developed as a puppet-theater DVD, with band members serving as voice actors, expanding its world beyond music.
This is a song especially for those searching for what it means to live true to themselves, or for anyone feeling worn out by daily life.
be master of lifeaiko
This heartwarming song beautifully captures the strength to face life’s hardships with positivity, as well as the moments of vulnerability we sometimes show.
Included on the album “Natsufuku,” released in June 2001, it was also used as the theme for Ezaki Glico’s “3C” commercial, and is filled with messages that resonate closely with listeners.
Aiko’s characteristically delicate lyrics blend perfectly with a refreshing rock sound, gently speaking to the importance of living true to yourself.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you feel lost in life or when you want to support someone dear to you.
It offers a wonderful experience in which feelings for someone and hope for tomorrow swell warmly in your heart.
BremenYorushika
A heartwarming story, inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ “Town Musicians of Bremen,” woven with a light rhythm and bright melody.
Delivered by Yorushika, this work gently speaks to the joy of surrendering yourself to music, free from logic and convention.
Like the story’s protagonists, it teaches us that even if we never arrive at our destination, the journey we share is where meaning truly lies—a gem of a song.
Released digitally in July 2022, it also sparked buzz with its animation-style music video, featuring a strikingly original direction that shows only the feet of eight different characters.
It’s a recommended track for times when your heart feels tired, when you’re unsure about life, or when you want to look ahead and walk forward together with someone.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
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.
[To Support the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (181–190)
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN
This song, which delivers a message filled with hope and courage, is GReeeeN’s major-label debut, released in January 2007.
It’s an encouragement anthem that stands beside those facing life’s hardships.
The simple yet powerful melody blends perfectly with the relatable lyrics, giving listeners the courage to take a step toward the future.
When you need the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to face forward.
It’s okaywacci
This is a heartwarming medium-tempo ballad by wacci that gently conveys the importance of embracing both tears and smiles as the colors of life.
Written and composed by member Yohei Hashiguchi, it carefully weaves the deep feelings embedded in the everyday phrase “daijoubu” (“It’s okay”).
Released in August 2015, the song was used as the theme for the TBS drama 37.5°C no Namida.
While life presents many challenges, it reminds us that the process of overcoming them and growing is itself an irreplaceable time.
It’s a warm song that offers sincere words of encouragement to those who may feel ashamed of showing vulnerability or tend to carry burdens alone.