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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A classic song that sings of courage. Recommended popular songs (41–50)
PrideNovel Core
It’s an ambitious work from Novel Core that hits hard with a rock sound.
Released in April 2025, it portrays the resolve to stay true to oneself from multiple angles—childhood convictions, the choices made while growing up, and more.
The passionate soundscape really shakes your soul.
The music video is an emotional piece that overlays handwritten lyrics onto memorable photos submitted by fans.
It gives a powerful push to anyone trying to follow the path they believe in.
one’s true feelingssumika
An anthem of encouragement that expresses moments when you feel like giving up in honest, straightforward words.
Written by sumika as the support song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, the track was released in January 2021 as a double A-side single and was included on the album AMUSIC in March of the same year.
Within its powerful sound that evokes the intensity of sports, it conveys the importance of walking forward with your teammates.
Starting in April of that year, it was also featured as the TV commercial song for Aisin Corporation.
Whether you’re feeling defeat or loneliness, or want to link arms with friends and face forward, this song is sure to give you courage.
NakedSPYAIR
It’s a powerful, message-driven song that stresses the importance of being your true self while facing life’s loneliness and hardship.
Even as it wrestles with the distance between oneself and others, its forward-looking attitude—gradually opening one’s heart—leaves a strong impression.
It’s a rock track that makes full use of a band sound, with SPYAIR’s signature, forceful performance and vocals that resonate deeply.
Released in September 2012, this work served as the lead single for the album “Just Do It” and was also used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV show “Futtonda.” It encourages you to accept yourself as you are and gives you the courage to take a new step forward.
Rock never dies22/7
It’s a rock number that makes you want to bob your shoulders along and fills you with energy.
It’s a song by the idol group 22/7, released in January 2025.
Also serving as the ending theme for the anime “The Unfortunate Job: Appraiser Was Actually the Strongest,” the track features an energetic sound and a catchy melody line.
Just following the sound seems to make the haze clouding your heart disappear.
The message—“If you believe in yourself, you can change the future”—is really wonderful, too.
Highly recommended when you want to switch your mood.
sonetACIDMAN
Set against the grand natural landscape of Hokkaido, this story is marked by a gentle melody that tenderly embraces a heart where anxiety and hope intertwine.
With the deep insight and empathy characteristic of ACIDMAN, its lyrics beautifully depict the joys and sorrows of life.
Within the vast flow of time, it quietly speaks to the importance of living true to yourself, exuding a warm, reassuring presence.
Released as the ending theme for the final episode of WOWOW’s drama “Golden Kamuy” in December 2024, it is slated for CD release in January 2025.
The majestic arrangement of strings and piano further enhances its richly emotional world.
When you find yourself stopping along the path toward your dreams and ideals, this work will gently nudge you to take that next step forward.
Beast ModeASH DA HERO
A powerful rock track that unleashes your inner wild side.
Fiery vocals and a fierce beat set listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Messages like “There are no limits” and “Everything lies within” give you the courage to believe in your potential.
Released digitally in April 2024, it was also featured as an insert song in the theatrical anime BLUELOCK -EPISODE NAGI- released in May.
ASH DA HERO’s overwhelming live performance energizes key scenes in the film.
It’s a song that gives you a push when you want to change yourself or strive toward your goals.
Highly recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone who needs a boost!
OLDROSEAqua Timez
This is a gem of a number that sings about human connections and the meaning of life.
Created by Aqua Timez, the piece was written specifically for the anime BLEACH.
For the band—who have four previous tie-ins with the series, from “Sen no Yoru wo Koete” to “MASK”—this marks their fifth collaboration.
Their signature emotional vocals blend beautifully with melodic instrumentation.
While closely aligning with the anime’s world, the song delivers a universal message that anyone can relate to.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking music that resonates with the heart.