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 celebrate courage: Recommended popular tracks (31–40)
Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI
This is a passionate cheer song by SEKAI NO OWARI, chosen as the opening theme for the Fuji TV anime One Piece.
It expresses universal themes—finding the courage to move forward by accepting one’s weaknesses, and personal growth for the sake of supporting others—set to a grand, expansive sound.
Released in September 2023 and included on the album Nautilus, the song was performed on programs such as FNS Music Festival and Music Station in December of the same year.
When you find yourself about to stop in front of life’s obstacles or want to challenge your limits, it will be a powerful ally.
Defeated Herokoron
An encouraging song that gently supports children striving toward their dreams and goals.
Koron from Strawberry Prince (SutoPuri) delivers a gentle yet powerful vocal that resonates like a warm embrace, soothing the worries and setbacks everyone experiences.
Released in May 2019, the piece carries a message of taking steady steps forward without fearing failure, while cherishing your true self.
Even if others laugh at you, the lyrics stress the importance of protecting your own smile—perfect for moments of doubt or discouragement.
Centered on the piano, the melody brims with kindness, as if softly nudging the listener onward.
It’s a song we hope every child aiming for their dreams—without fear of failure—will hear.
StrongestYuuri
An uplifting cheer song that inspires the drive to move forward with strength! This piece was chosen as the opening theme for cour 2 of Season 7 of the TV anime My Hero Academia.
Yuuri’s energetic vocals fuse with the band’s sound to give listeners a powerful push.
It carries messages of courage to keep standing up without giving up, and the strength to believe in yourself and move forward—resonating deeply with those facing setbacks or hardship.
It’s the perfect track before an important game or showdown, when taking a new step, or whenever you want to fire yourself up.
Peter PanYuuri
This is a moving song that expresses a steadfast resolve to chase one’s dreams.
It brilliantly captures the strength to stand by one’s convictions despite social criticism and the purity to envision ideals free from conventions.
Written and composed by Yuuri, this J-pop rock track is marked by a funky backing and a powerful vocal performance.
Since its digital-only release in August 2020, it has resonated with many listeners, and starting in April 2021 it was also used as a corporate commercial song by DIP Corporation.
It’s a track that gently encourages those who want to keep pursuing their dreams and those seeking a path that’s true to themselves.
countrysideTamaki Kōji
A heartwarming, soul-stirring masterpiece filled with encouragement for those burdened by fatigue and worries.
Drawing from his own experience overcoming mental instability, Koji Tamaki carefully portrays the inner cries that everyone carries.
Released in July 1996 as his 11th solo single, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Coach.” That same year, he made his first appearance at the 47th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where his performance deeply moved viewers at the time.
Highly recommended for anyone feeling lost or anxious in life, or for those who want to encourage someone dear to them.
A classic song that sings of courage. Recommended popular songs (41–50)
StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE
A captivating track featuring a bright pop-rock sound filled with positivity and confidence.
Released by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE in July 2015, this song is packed with youthful, energetic sound and a message brimming with hope.
Its exhilarating guitar riffs and catchy melodies encourage the pursuit of happiness and the courage to take new steps forward.
Chosen for Kao Merit’s commercial and as the theme song for Fuji TV’s show “Cho Hamaru! Bakusho Chara Parade,” it captured the hearts of many listeners.
It’s an uplifting anthem perfect for moments when you want to reflect on yourself or resolve to take on a new challenge.
StardomKing Gnu
Released by King Gnu in November 2022, this work blends their distinctive mix of mixture rock and J-pop with words born from Daiki Tsuneta’s deep insight to stir the hearts of those pursuing their dreams.
Created as NHK’s soccer theme song, it was selected as a cheer song for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Portraying the anguish behind surface-level success and the steadfast will to keep looking forward, it’s an anthem that resonates with everyone who fights on every day.
For anyone striving to move ahead by overcoming setbacks and pain, this is a song that gives you courage.