A wonderful classic

[Songs Portraying Strong Women] Positive Tracks to Listen to When You’re Feeling Discouraged

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Keyboard playerSAKI
I’ve been playing the Electone since I was six, mainly performing Disney music, anime songs, and music from dramas and films. I post performance videos on YouTube and social media, and I also give concerts. Building on my Electone experience, I took up synthesizer and piano during my student years and performed at school-sponsored events. As a writer, I’ve covered not only music-related topics but a wide range of genres, so I hope to draw on my experience to deliver articles that make readers think, “I want to try that!” or “I want to listen to that!”

When you hear the phrase “a strong woman,” what kind of woman do you picture?

“A person with an inner core,” “someone who isn’t easily intimidated,” “someone who doesn’t dwell on the past”…

There are many ways to interpret what it means to be strong.

In this article, we’ll introduce songs that portray strong women from a variety of perspectives.

If you’re thinking, “I want to move on from heartbreak,” “I want to follow the path I believe in,” “I want to be myself,” or “Who am I, really?”, please read to the end.

You’re sure to find your ideal image of a “strong woman.”

[Songs Portraying Strong Women] Positive Tracks to Hear When You're About to Falter (81–90)

Get fired upDaikoku Maki

Get fired up

Get fired upDaikoku Maki

Speaking of artists with a strong, big-sister vibe, Maki Ohguro comes to mind! Her song “Atsuku Nare” is a fiery, empowering number.

It was also used as the NHK theme song for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, passionately boosting the spirits of many competing athletes.

The song conveys an unwavering determination to deliver one’s ardent feelings wholeheartedly to the person they love.

No matter the constraints, it encourages believing in and nurturing the passionate feeling of “I love this person.” It’s a song that radiates the bold, straightforward romantic emotions of a confident, cool woman.

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To move forwardAbe Mao

To move forward

To move forwardAbe Mao

Abe Mao’s new song resonates with the heart through a powerful yet delicate voice.

It portrays the courage to overcome the pain of heartbreak and take a new step forward.

Released in May 2024, it made waves through a collaboration with the popular manga “I Want a Love That Forgets You,” and it’s slated to be included on the album NOW.

Many listeners will relate to the lyrics, which convey a resolve to move forward while still feeling lingering attachment.

It’s a perfect track for those struggling with love or looking to take a fresh step.

It feels like you grow stronger each time you listen.

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rock starAdo

[Ado] Rockstar

rock starAdo

A bold, heartfelt work packed with Ado’s true feelings, offered as a powerful anthem for all who keep chasing their dreams.

It portrays a dream‑struck girl becoming the rock star she once dreamed of, forging her own path as she overcomes loneliness and anxiety, all set to an emotional rock sound.

Released in April 2025 as a track on the album “Ado’s Best Album,” it was also chosen as the theme song for Marubeni Corporation’s corporate advertisement campaign, expressing the message that “you’re not alone” and “let’s do it together” on the road to making dreams come true.

If you’re confident in your vocal ability, you can deliver a stirring, passionate performance on stage.

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I’m ProudKahara Tomomi

Tomomi Kahala - I’m Proud

I'm ProudKahara Tomomi

A masterpiece of self-affirmation from 1996 and one of Tomomi Kahala’s signature songs, featuring a powerful yet wistful melody and emotionally rich lyrics.

It vividly portrays a protagonist grappling with loneliness and anxiety who confronts herself and reexamines her identity through encounters with others.

Chosen as the song for a TBC commercial, it also led to an appearance at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

This legendary track reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and topped the annual karaoke rankings.

Though it’s a song that tests one’s vocal ability, it’s highly recommended for moments when you want to boost your confidence or take a new step forward.

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For that dayKitahara Mirei

[Full MV] Mirei Kitahara — For That Day [Official]

For that dayKitahara Mirei

A classic by Mirei Kitahara that portrays the bittersweet feelings of a woman pining over a past love.

True to her strength in up-tempo enka, it’s a track that conveys a quiet yet unmistakable power.

The image of a woman struggling with heartbreak while striving to live strongly is deeply moving.

Released in February 2024, this gem skillfully fuses elements of J-pop and classical music.

Kitahara’s vocals fully showcase the expressive depth she has cultivated over many years of music-making.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to overcome the pain of a breakup or to live authentically.

Listening to this piece will surely awaken the strength that lies dormant within you.

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