[2026] Go for it! Popular Uplifting and Motivational Songs in Western Music

Wake Me UpAvicii

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

A hugely popular hit and signature song by Avicii, the Swedish music producer and DJ who sadly passed away in 2018.

While it features EDM-style sound design, it also incorporates light acoustic guitar backing, and at its core it brims with a folksy, songful spirit—a wonderful masterpiece born of Avicii’s talent as a songwriter.

The track is also known for boosting the profile of American soul singer Aloe Blacc, who is featured on the song and delivers a soaring, soulful vocal performance.

The message embedded in this classic isn’t unilaterally positive, however.

The struggles of youth are something everyone faces.

Precisely when you’re in the same frame of mind as the song’s protagonist, its powerful vocals and melody can give you a push forward and help you feel more positive.

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We Are The ChampionsQueen

Queen – We Are The Champions (Official Video)

Even now, well past the 2020s, thanks in part to the blockbuster film Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen remains a legendary band whose remarkable music and achievements are passed down to younger generations.

Their influence is immeasurable.

Today we’re introducing one of the many immortal songs they left in music history: We Are The Champions, released in 1977 and known in Japan by the title Densetsu no Champion (The Legendary Champion).

The moment you hear the chorus melody, it’s so famous that almost everyone will feel they’ve heard it at least once, and just listening to it wraps you in an indescribable surge of exhilaration.

Knowing that Queen’s journey was anything but smooth sailing gives the powerful chorus—“My friends, we are the champions of the world”—an even deeper resonance.

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One By OneCentral Cee

Central Cee – One By One | A COLORS SHOW

Japanese-to-English translation

Emerging from the streets of London and now attracting global attention, rapper Central Cee has released “One By One,” a single he dropped in October 2024.

The title means “step by step” in Japanese, and the track matter-of-factly portrays the accumulated effort required to achieve success and the accompanying sense of solitude.

Released in the lead-up to his album “Can’t Rush Greatness,” this work emphasizes the power of words over flashy production.

Even when you feel overwhelmed by uncertainty about the future, it reminds you of the importance of tackling the task in front of you one at a time.

Students steadily preparing for entrance exams should definitely give it a listen.

Training SeasonDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Training Season (Official Music Video)

Western music Japanese translation: Dua Lipa – Training Season #dualipa #trainingseason

Dua Lipa, a London-born global pop star who is also hugely influential in the fashion world, released this track in February 2024 as a buzzworthy lead single from her album Radical Optimism.

It carries a powerful message about not diminishing your own worth and seeking a partner who can meet you as an equal.

Produced with Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, the sound blends ’70s psychedelia and disco into an irresistibly addictive track.

It was also featured in a commercial for Porsche’s electric Macan, where its sense of momentum energized the visuals.

The song’s spirit—like signaling the end of a practice period—makes it perfect for those about to take entrance exams.

When you want to face your tests with confidence, give it a listen.

Give It A WeekDaniel Seavey

Daniel Seavey – Give It A Week (Official Lyric Video)

Daniel Seavey’s song, which candidly portrays the struggles of love, resonates deeply with many listeners.

The protagonist’s turmoil—torn over an unhealthy relationship yet unable to let go—invites strong empathy.

Featured on the EP “Dancing in the Dark,” released in August 2023, the track is characterized by a pop sound and distinctive synthesizers.

The lyrics depict the pain of imbalance between physical intimacy and emotional connection, expressing lingering attachment as the narrator tries to reach out again after a week apart.

It’s a song that will likely comfort those dealing with heartbreak or complicated relationships.

Just Give Me a ReasonP!nk

P!nk – Just Give Me A Reason ft. Nate Ruess

A powerful ballad with emotional depth and universal resonance.

Pink and Nate Ruess deliver a duet with stunning harmony.

Centered on themes of love’s renewal and emotional recovery, it conveys the message that sincere communication and a little effort are what it takes to mend a fractured relationship.

Released in February 2013, it reached No.

1 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

A global hit, it won Best Collaboration at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Highly recommended for anyone facing challenges in love or looking to strengthen a bond with someone special.

Viva La VidaColdplay

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

It’s a song brimming with unique lyrics and poetic expressions that impart a sense of transcendence, as if governing the world through a panoramic realism.

I heard that an Indonesian friend of mine once got tickets to Coldplay’s concert in Japan, so perhaps she heard this live as well.