Classic songs that celebrate courage. Recommended popular tracks.
I’ve put together a playlist of classic Japanese songs with the theme of courage.
Because the lyrics are in Japanese, I think the songs’ messages can reach listeners more directly.
When you want to push yourself a bit more, need a nudge, or want some encouragement, music will be there by your side.
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Classic songs that sing of courage. Recommended popular tracks (121–130)
HeroAmuro Namie
Isn’t it rare to find a female artist who is supported by so many women? Though her song is used for events like the Olympics and initially feels like a grand, orchestral piece, the rhythm shifts and turns into an up-tempo track.
It’s a must-listen that fills you with energy just by hearing it.
flying boatKing Gnu
It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you a powerful push forward.
It opens with the line, “Don’t tremble in fear of nothing but what’s ‘right,’” urging the importance of breaking free from society’s restraints and living freely.
King Gnu’s signature, distinctive sound and Satoru Iguchi’s vocals enhance the song’s appeal.
Released in August 2019, it drew attention as an ANA commercial song, and its innovative drone-driven music video also turned heads.
It’s a perfect track for anyone about to take on a new challenge or hoping to reclaim their true self.
Listen to this piece, and you’re sure to feel your courage rising.
For DecadesLittle Glee Monster
An uplifting anthem that sings of the strength to face forward through setbacks and tears, and the will to keep walking together toward our dreams.
Little Glee Monster harnesses their signature harmonies to deliver a grand, powerful melody that stirs the listener’s heart.
Included on the album “Ambitious,” this track has been selected as the official J.League support song for 2025 and will be featured in stadiums and game broadcasts.
This warm fusion of sports and music will gently encourage everyone striving toward their goals.
Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster
An uplifting anthem by Little Glee Monster, brimming with passion and powerful harmonies that stir the heart.
Created as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this piece gives a push to all who are walking toward their dreams.
Included on the album “juice,” the song carries a message that the tears you’ve shed will one day turn into shining achievements.
When you want to get fired up before a match or for an important moment, listening to this track will fill you with courage and hope.
It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you tremendous strength.
Classic songs that sing of courage. Recommended popular tracks (131–140)
Ten Thousand Cheers, A Thousand ChantsRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS delivered a cheer song created together with 18-year-olds.
Filled with both anxiety and hope for an unseen future, this piece—woven with Yojiro Noda’s resonant words and melodies—gently gives a push to those about to take a new step forward.
It was first performed on a special NHK program in October 2018 and later included on the album ANTI ANTI GENERATION released that December.
The stage, shared with 1,000 18-year-olds gathered from across the country, became a moving moment born from the real voices of youth.
It’s a song we hope not only students striving toward their dreams, but everyone starting a new chapter will listen to.
It will fill you with the courage to face forward and begin walking.
determinationSUPER BEAVER
It’s a classic that upliftingly sings of youthful emotions.
It powerfully portrays young people moving toward the future and warmly conveys the importance of living true to oneself.
The melody that draws out a positive mindset and the deeply resonant, message-rich lyrics are beautifully harmonized in this song.
Released in November 2023 as the CM song for Morinaga’s “in Jelly Energy Glucose,” it was also included on the album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024.
An ambitious work by SUPER BEAVER, it fully showcases their sincere musicality.
It’s a song to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life, face an important decision, or are about to take a new step forward.
It serves as a powerful cheer song that offers the courage to believe in yourself and hope for the future—especially resonant for high school students.
SignalWANIMA
A song filled with courage and hope that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze! It features a driving, fast-paced sound and uplifting lyrics, carrying the message: “Even if we’re unfinished, let’s keep challenging ourselves.” Included on the January 2018 album “Everybody!!,” it was performed with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds on the NHK special program “18-sai Matsuri.” It was also used as the commercial song for Lotte Ice “Sou.” This is a track that gives a push to young people standing at life’s crossroads, such as during entrance exams or job hunting.
All the more reason to listen when you’re struggling with worries or anxiety—you’re sure to find courage.