[A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
Even when you’re giving it your all, sometimes things just don’t go well.
There are times when you feel like throwing in the towel, or you get so down that you withdraw into yourself.
In moments like that, how about listening to some music to gather the courage and strength to overcome hardships?
In this article, we’re introducing a special selection of cheer-up songs we’d love to dedicate to those who are doing their best.
Songs that lift you when you’re feeling low, songs that fire you up with a “Let’s go!” spirit, and songs that gently stay by your side.
May you find an anthem of encouragement that resonates with your heart.
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[A Cheer Song for Myself] A motivational anthem for you who are doing your very best (91–100)
Progresskōkua
When you suddenly lose sight of where you stand, or when you’re sure you’re trying your best but the results just aren’t there—those are exactly the times this song might be worth a listen.
It’s a piece by kōkua, the band fronted by Shikao Suga, released in 2006.
You probably know it as the theme song for NHK’s “Professional: Shigoto no Ryuugi” (Professionals: The Way of Work).
Despite its relaxed tempo, it conveys a simmering, persistent heat—an emotional track.
I think working adults in particular will find a lot to relate to in this song.
Give it some guts!!Urufuruzu
When you’re feeling down, listening to an upbeat song can be a great idea.
With that in mind, I’d like to recommend “Guts Da ze!!” It’s a famous track by Ulfuls that everyone knows.
According to an interview with Tortoise Matsumoto, they actually hadn’t had a hit song before this one and were really struggling.
Keeping that backstory in mind might make the song even more uplifting.
Also, check out the drama-style music video.
It’s packed with gags that will make you chuckle.
sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN
This is “sailing day,” a signature song by BUMP OF CHICKEN that was used as the theme for a smash-hit anime.
With its uptempo sound and exhilarating vocals, it makes you feel like you can’t help but start running.
“Sailing” literally means setting sail, and by extension, the lyrics carry a positive message of taking the helm of your own life and moving forward on your own.
Last chanceSomething ELse
Something ELse, who had been struggling to produce a hit and were on the verge of having their contracts with their record label and agency terminated, released this song, “Last Chance,” as quite literally their final opportunity.
Their efforts were broadcast as a segment on the variety show “Denpa Shonen.” The lyrics, which reflected their genuine feelings, gave courage to many people.
In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez
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.
Thunderous applauseLiSA
One that still stands out in our memory for going viral on TikTok is “Issai no Kassai.” It’s a song rock singer LiSA wrote specifically for the special program for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Set to an up-tempo yet weighty sound, it sings about the importance of believing in yourself.
Because it also portrays negative emotions, it’s a song that just about anyone can relate to.
Plus, the chant-like calls that evoke soccer crowd support make it a track that really fires you up.
GOD_iNumber_i
Produced by Number_i member Yuta Kishi, the song carries a gentle message about the importance of living true to yourself and finding the courage to take a step forward.
It will be released for streaming starting in January 2025, and the simultaneously unveiled music video showcases dreamlike visual beauty and dynamic dance performances.
This piece is an uplifting anthem that encourages those striving toward big dreams or about to take a new step.
It’s sure to inspire a positive mindset to walk your own path without fearing failure.