Recommended cheer-up songs for people in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese hits

YELLikimonogakari

YELL – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

This song, brimming with uplifting emotion, gives you the courage to take a step into the future.

Known as one of Ikimono-gakari’s signature tracks, it was released in September 2009.

It was also used as the set piece for NHK’s All-Japan School Music Competition, and has left a deep imprint on many hearts.

By interpreting “goodbye” as a word for new beginnings, it serves as a cheer song for those setting off toward their individual dreams.

It’s a track you’ll want to hear at graduations and life’s turning points, and for people in their thirties, it will likely evoke a nostalgic overlap with student days.

Listen to this piece, and there’s no doubt it will awaken the passion sleeping inside you.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – “Nando Demo”

It’s one of DREAMS COME TRUE’s signature songs and a staple that always comes up when introducing cheer-up anthems! The chorus, where the phrase in the title is repeated, really sticks with you, and when you feel like giving up, listening to this song makes you feel like you can push just a little bit further.

Released in February 2005, it was written as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kyumei Byoto 24 Ji” (Emergency Room 24 Hours).

If someone around you has been working hard but is troubled because the results aren’t coming, give them this song to encourage them.

It’ll help them feel positive—like, “Maybe the next try will go well!!”

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

Among Sambomaster’s songs, this is one of the most positive and fiery anthems of encouragement.

The lyrics carry the message “Don’t give up!!” sung in the chorus, which has pushed many fans forward.

With a good tempo and easy groove, it’s also recommended as background music for competitions—a guaranteed tearjerker and a classic of youth.

Released in February 2010, the song was written specifically for Nissan’s Serena commercial, and it has continued to be used in various contexts ever since.

Overflowing with motivation and courage, this track makes you feel that precisely because something seems impossible at first glance, it’s worth challenging!

Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru

Takahara Pistol / Hey, You Young Folks (2015/11/25 LIVE at Kichijoji Planet K)

This is one of Pistol Takehara’s signature songs, featuring his intensely passionate, almost sweltering vocals, and it was also used in a Sumitomo Life insurance commercial.

In the chorus, he addresses young people with a heartfelt message, while also delivering the strikingly paradoxical line: don’t listen to what anyone says.

Listening to this song lightens the heart—it reminds you that it’s fine to take advice in moderation and to keep piling up your own efforts in your own way.

Released digitally in November 2015, the track resonated with many listeners and became one of Takehara’s defining works.

It’s highly recommended for young employees who feel gloomy during their daily commute to work.

Twenty-nine, thirtykuriipuhaipe

CreepHyp - “Twenty-Nine, Thirty” (MUSIC VIDEO)

This song portrays a realistic picture of standing at the milestone of entering your thirties and wrestling with how you should live the rest of your life.

Wanting to be reborn as something other than human so you could live without thinking, getting laughed at for talking about ideals and being too dreamy—many people have probably experienced the situations described in the lyrics.

When you have to make a decision, everyone struggles and suffers.

Realizing you’re not alone can make you feel a little lighter, doesn’t it?

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Dream FighterPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume「Dream Fighter」

This song, which sings about the strength to keep moving toward your dreams, is one of Perfume’s most popular cheer songs.

Their signature four-on-the-floor beat feels great, and if you listen to it in the morning it’s sure to boost your mood.

What’s more, the lyrics are incredibly reassuring, giving you a strong push—like saying “You can do it!!”—even when you feel like you might stumble after putting in so much effort.

Released in November 2008, the track was also used as the opening theme for the Asahi Broadcasting/TV Asahi program “Kore tte Watashi Dake?” When you feel close to burning out at work, try listening to this song in the morning to lift your spirits!

Cheering Song feat. MOOMINShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Cheering Song feat. MOOMIN” MUSIC VIDEO

Shonan no Kaze are always by our side, cheering us on.

Sometimes they raise their fists high to fire us up; other times they gently give us a push on the back—their style of encouragement is ever-changing.

This song, “Ouenka feat.

MOOMIN,” is one you’ll want to listen to when life wears you down.

“Don’t give up on your dreams—what happened to the bold, spirited you?” It holds up your faltering heart with a powerful boost.

This manly pep song—like an older brother or a father— is a must-listen for those long, contemplative autumn nights.

If you don’t want to give up on something, give it a spin!