Classic songs that celebrate courage. Recommended popular tracks.

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.

sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「sailing day」

A work depicting the courage and hope to face destiny was released in March 2003.

Even mistakes and failures, like beloved treasures, may be unique riches that belong only to each person.

Filled with a cheer for foolish dreamers who chase their dreams, it delivers the united hearts of all the members.

This gem of a song is included on the album Yggdrasil and was also chosen as the theme song for the film ONE PIECE THE MOVIE: The Dead End Adventure.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and marked the band’s first-ever 100,000 copies sold in its debut week.

It’s a track that warmly embraces your back as you take a new step forward.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

Again and Again – DREAMS COME TRUE (Full)

This is DREAMS COME TRUE’s 35th single, released in February 2005.

Written as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours” (Season 3), the track drew attention as a message song about finding the courage to get back up again and again without fearing failure.

Miwa Yoshida’s powerful vocals and Masato Nakamura’s moving melody leave a deep impression on listeners.

After the Great East Japan Earthquake, the full ringtone version was distributed for free as a show of support for the victims.

If you’re looking for courage to face setbacks and challenges, why not give it a listen?

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

This song gives you the courage to walk boldly along life’s path.

Its moving ballad sound and heartfelt lyrics leave a strong impression.

Released in February 2007, it has become a beloved staple among graduation songs.

It also drew attention when it was featured in a music.jp commercial and used as the opening theme for NTV’s “Ongaku Senshi MUSIC FIGHTER.” The song portrays both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning, with the two vocalists’ gentle yet powerful voices striking straight to the heart.

It’s a track that gives you a push forward at life’s turning points.

Overflowing with appeal, it empowers you to overcome tough times and find the courage to step into a brighter future.

InsomniaEVE

Insomnia

A song that vividly portrays the anxieties and hopes of modern society through the theme of insomnia.

Eve’s distinctive world-building and emotionally rich vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in March 2024 as the theme song for the film “My Home Hero,” it expresses the boundary between the ordinary and the extraordinary through music.

While grappling with a wounded heart and fears of an unpredictable future, the lyrics embody a strong will to move forward.

It’s a song that stands by those who question their own lives or feel anxious about the future.

The words woven by Eve are sure to give courage to your heart.

break lineFANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE

break line

This is a song by FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE whose driving sound and passionate message really resonate.

It’s drawing attention as the fighting theme for the movie “Run for Money THE MOVIE,” scheduled for release in July 2024.

The synergy with the film—featuring members Taiki Sato, Sota Nakajima, and Reo Seguchi—further highlights the track’s appeal.

The lyrics convey a determination to seek freedom and push beyond limits, making it a powerful anthem that encourages those facing hardships to keep moving forward without giving up.

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.