[Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best

The BeginningONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – The Beginning [Official Music Video]

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.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A gentle anthem of support that blends the bittersweetness and hope of youth.

It portrays, with a warm gaze, the feelings of young people searching for answers of their own.

Its message—that there is no single right answer in life and it’s okay to move forward at your own pace—will surely touch everyone’s heart.

Released digitally in January 2024 by RADWIMPS, this song has often been sung at school graduation ceremonies and in scenes of remembrance.

When you feel anxious about the future or find yourself at a crossroads in life, this warm, comforting track will softly nudge you forward.

Please, take the courage from this song to help you step into a new beginning.

A March for Youchesu maika

To you who feel lost and about to stop: 'A March for You' by Chesmaika

It’s a song whose forward-looking message, filled with hope and courage, truly resonates.

Its warm lyrics and powerful, uplifting melody stand out, offering comfort to those who feel uncertainty or anxiety in their daily lives and challenges.

It compassionately addresses the worries of people living today—wanting recognition, pushing themselves too hard, or lacking confidence in their choices—while brimming with kindness that values each person’s own pace.

Written and composed by Chessmaica’s Tiiga in September 2017 and released on YouTube, this piece is perfect for times when you feel lost or when you want to encourage someone important to you.

Be the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves.berii guddoman

Berry Goodman “Become the soil that makes flowers bloom, rather than the flowers themselves” Music Video (NHK ‘Minna no Uta’ December 2024–January 2025)

A powerful anthem that finds beauty in staying out of the spotlight.

It carries gratitude for everyone who offers support, the strength to keep going even when unnoticed efforts draw no attention, and a wish to become someone who nourishes another’s heart.

Written for NHK’s “Minna no Uta” broadcast from December 2024 to January 2025, the song is included on the album “Thank You.” Inspired by the words of Tomoshige Yamashita, honorary manager of the Seiryo High School baseball team, its weight and heartfelt message have been soothing many listeners.

When you feel your efforts aren’t rewarded, or when you’re on the verge of losing your sense of purpose, this song will gently stay by your side and give you courage.

TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS 'TRAIN-TRAIN' [3rd Single (1988/11/23)] THE BLUE HEARTS / TRAIN-TRAIN

A powerful portrayal of relentlessly sprinting toward one’s goals, this signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS is set in the real world—not a utopia or a hell—and boldly declares that life itself has meaning even if we can’t be perfect.

Released in November 1988, this track, which lends its name to the album TRAIN-TRAIN, uses piano for the first time in the band’s history to create a sense of exhilarating momentum and reached No.

5 on the Oricon singles chart.

In 1989, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Rakugaki.” For those standing at a crossroads in life, this is a song that will be a powerful ally.

When you’re torn about a decision, let it be a source of courage that gives you a push forward.

Bring it on, spring.non

[Official Music Video] Non – I’ll Stand to Face Spring

As spring—the season of new beginnings—approaches, Non channels the energy of youth into her music and delivers it straight to your heart.

Like a gentle breeze, this encounter will blow in the courage you need to take a fresh step forward.

Born from a collaboration with Kei Higuchi, this work brims with a powerful message that captures the radiance of youth and breaks through the stifling feel of everyday life.

Since its release in January 2025, it has earned acclaim in live performances and become a fan favorite.

Following the album “PURSUE,” Non’s expressive power shines even brighter, marking a new stage in her evolution.

It’s a heartfelt cheer song I strongly recommend to anyone stepping into a new chapter of life or looking to take that first step toward tomorrow.

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.