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

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

A passionate cheer song crafted by Kenshi Yonezu.

Its melody brims with a headlong rush, like the instant an arrow is loosed, and it vividly portrays protagonists who keep moving toward their dreams even after experiencing setbacks.

A piece that also captivated live audiences, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.

The lyrics, evoking the bonds of characters who support each other like a bow and arrow, and the dynamic sound together give listeners the courage to overcome the doubts and uncertainties everyone carries.

When your resolve to strive toward your goals starts to waver, listening to this song will surely give you the strength to take a new step forward.

REVIVERMY FIRST STORY

MY FIRST STORY – REVIVER – Official Music Video

A powerful rock number packed with messages of rebirth and self-affirmation! Included on MY FIRST STORY’s album “ALL LEAD TRACKS,” released in July 2017, it was chosen as the theme song for Part 3 of the smartphone RPG “Hortensia Saga: Aoi no Kishidan.” With its driving melodies and grand sound, it expresses the courage to face adversity and the resolve to rise again.

Even if you’re reborn, your convictions remain unchanged—this song embodies the determination to live true to yourself.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you hit a wall, when you feel like you’re losing yourself, or when you need to rally your spirit.

The True Nature of TearsSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “The True Form of Tears” MV (Theme song for NHK Night Drama ‘Vanilla na Mainichi’)

This song gently seeps into the heart, delicately portraying the inner conflicts and emotional fluctuations that people carry.

In this work from SUPER BEAVER, the tender vocals and warm melody line express the loneliness everyone experiences and the feelings we hold inside, wrapping them in kindness.

It tells us that tears are not a sign of weakness, but rather something precious that helps us understand and accept ourselves.

Released in January 2025, it was written as the theme song for the NHK General TV drama “Vanilla na Mainichi.” The song is used strikingly within the show, carrying significant meaning for the story’s protagonist.

It’s the perfect track for those who are trying to overcome painful experiences or want to face their own emotions—an ideal song for when you need a good cry.

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.

Get OverDream

dream / Get Over (Dream X’mas Party 2006)

This gem of a song by Dream, released in November 2001, is filled with a strong will and determination to overcome life’s doubts and setbacks.

Its powerful message—walking toward the future even when the road is difficult, while believing in and supporting each other—leaves a lasting impression.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Hikaru no Go, it garnered wide support from listeners, reaching No.

12 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s music that stays by your side when you’re feeling lost or anxious, when you want to feel the bond with someone important, or when you’re about to take a new step forward.

With its melodious sound, this work resonates as a heartfelt anthem of encouragement—be sure to give it a listen.

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.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

A signature song by LiSA that delivers a cry of the heart—where hope and sorrow intertwine—through a powerful melody.

The protagonist’s resolve to protect someone precious, even while battling their own inner weakness, is striking.

With its intense rock-inspired sound perfectly balanced by delicate emotional expression, this piece has moved countless listeners since its April 2019 release as the opening theme of the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.

When you need the courage to push past setbacks and despair, or when you want to give your all for someone important, this song will surely give you a gentle push forward.