[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 Yourself] A Pep Song Dedicated to You Who Are Doing Your Best (181–190)
pupilŌhara Sakurako
Hitomi, the second single by Sakurako Ohara, was released in 2015.
As it was chosen as the support song for the 93rd All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it’s a track that deeply resonates with people who are working hard in their clubs or sports.
A motivational song dedicated to those pursuing their dreams, it strikes a chord and encourages you to keep looking forward even when you feel like breaking.
It also makes you realize that there are people who have been watching over your efforts up close and cheering you on.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
Released in 1995, TOMORROW—one of singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto’s signature songs—was a huge hit and even used as a TV drama theme.
For people in their 40s and 50s, it’s very nostalgic, and it’s still a popular karaoke number today.
Its positive and gentle lyrics clearly explain why it became such a massive, long-lasting hit.
I think even younger listeners will feel encouraged and gain courage from this song.
It helps you accept that being worn out isn’t a mistake—it’s okay, and it’s also a kind of truth.
BRAVEarashi
This song’s cool, hard-rock sound from Arashi really stands out.
Arashi’s very presence has a way of lifting our spirits, but this track’s chorus melody in particular truly energizes you.
It also features arrangements with rap elements reminiscent of hip-hop, giving it the kind of power that makes you forget your worries as you listen.
As expected from one of Japan’s leading idol groups.
Start over!Sakurazaka46
Even after changing their name from Keyakizaka46, Sakurazaka46 has continued its explosive surge forward.
The way they sprint down a completely different path from the other Sakamichi groups seems to embody the concept of “the kind of woman girls aspire to be.” A track packed to the brim with that unmistakable coolness is “Start over!” Its words slice into and provoke the listener, asking, “Do you have a dream?” and “Are you really giving it your all?”—a testament to lyricist Yasushi Akimoto’s power.
The lyrics may feel a bit daunting, but paradoxically, the song carries a cheering message: “You can push yourself further.” The choreography incorporating contemporary dance is superb—be sure to check out the music video too!
Boys & GirlsHamasaki Ayumi
Ayumi Hamasaki’s early hit song “Boys & Girls.” Her look and vocals from her just-debuted days feel so fresh and innocent.
She has written her own lyrics since her debut, and those lyrics, which keenly capture the feelings of contemporary youth, have earned wide support.
This song is a cheer anthem for young people spreading their wings toward their dreams, and combined with its up-tempo melody, it’s sure to put you in a positive mood when you listen.
Your Song (Kimi no Uta)Abe Mao
Mao Abe, with her high-pitched vocal timbre and many songs packed with powerful messages, radiates a one-of-a-kind presence as a female singer-songwriter.
In her dignified posture and gaze, you can feel her mental strength and her determination to live life to the fullest.
“Kimi no Uta (Kimi no Uta)” is a song I want working adults and students with dreams and goals to hear.
It’s a positive anthem that pushes a sense of affirmation: because it’s the path you chose, you can keep smiling, you can keep walking, and that’s why you shine.
Please give it a listen.
Good Luck!SixTONES
When facing a trial, having one song to lean on is truly a blessing.
In those moments, Good Luck! is a bright, pop-infused cheer song from SixTONES that gives you strength.
Serving as the theme song for a drama starring Jesse, it features a rhythmic beat and catchy melody that lift your spirits, pushing back anxiety and doubt.
With powerful lyrics that encourage you to go at your own pace without worrying about others’ eyes, it gives you a supportive push forward.
It’s the perfect track for a mood reset or when you’re ready to take a new step.