[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
[To Support the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (181–190)
Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet
The song that drew attention for the collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and milet was produced as the theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc.
It fuses a powerful rock sound with milet’s clear, resonant vocals, singing of the strength of bonds and the courage to face hardship.
Released as a single in May 2023, it received a huge response both in Japan and abroad, surpassing 100 million views on YouTube.
It’s a track that encourages not only anime fans but everyone who keeps taking on challenges.
Highly recommended for boosting your motivation or listening before an important match.
[Supporting the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough (191–200)
AkariMy Hair is Bad
A gem of a song that captures the feelings of people who keep fighting hard even while weary from everyday life.
Included on My Hair is Bad’s album “ghosts,” released in July 2024, this track vividly portrays the inner heart that puts on a brave face while harboring weakness, along with the will to move forward nonetheless.
Emotional guitar tones and powerful vocals gently embrace the emotions deep within.
The album “ghosts” also features the theme song for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Our Dinosaur Diary” and the official theme for the 96th Senbatsu as presented by MBS.
When work or relationships weigh on you and your heart feels like it might break, this song will be by your side and help you take a step toward tomorrow.
＋MatterONE OK ROCK
This work stands out with its powerful vocals and dynamic band sound.
Released on December 6, 2024, the song was originally performed only as an encore during the world tour.
It is also included on the album “DETOX,” released on February 21, 2025.
The lyrics, themed around self-esteem and the meaning of existence, resonate deeply with listeners.
When you want to reaffirm your own worth, this song is sure to help you.
Pain, go away!ZORN
ZORN weaves a soul’s cry, facing pain that gouges at the depths of the heart, in his uniquely crafted words.
It’s a gem of a song that earnestly sings to a friend on the verge of being crushed by mental exhaustion and helplessness.
Even amid heart-rending sorrow, the warm wish of “let’s meet again” shines like a light and seeps into the heart.
Released in July 2022, the piece features BACHLOGIC’s polished production, vividly coloring the nuances of emotion.
It gently resonates with those standing at the brink of deep despair, and with anyone who wants to be close to the pain of someone they cherish.
It’s us.imase
Musician imase, who picked up an instrument for the first time at 20 and made his major debut the following year.
His eighth digital-only single, “Bokurada,” written for NTT Docomo’s “ahamo” web commercial “What does it mean to be an adult?”, leaves a lasting impression with its distinctive vocals over a refreshing ensemble.
Its message—that the future’s possibilities are limitless—may give a reassuring push to those struggling with doubts and worries.
It’s a positive pop tune whose modern melody inspires a forward-looking mindset.
horsetailnishina
This song gently embraces the fragility and beauty of life.
Created by Nishina, it was released in February 2025 and written as the theme song for the NHK Saturday drama “Rira no Hana Saku Kemonodō.” Like horsetail shoots sprouting in early spring, it portrays the resilient growth that follows a harsh winter through delicate vocals and a stirring melody.
It’s a ballad that gives you courage when you find yourself pausing in daily life or wanting to reflect on your own path.
Everything other than death is just a scratch.Koresawa
This song features Koresawa’s clear, translucent voice, gently accompanying our hearts.
Included on her major-label debut album “Korekara,” released in August 2017, it’s a positive, uplifting anthem that sings about facing life’s hardships and trials with optimism.
Written, composed, and arranged by Koresawa herself, the track fully embodies her unique worldview.
The lyrics, weaving in everyday episodes, leave a strong impression as they celebrate the strength to never be defeated by adversity.
It’s a song that gives you energy when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.
Why not let it become a source of support for your heart?