[2010–2019] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number

back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY (full)

A poignant ballad that expresses the protagonist’s feelings as they wait all night on their birthday for a single word from the one they love, rendered through delicate emotional nuance and the gentle timbre of the piano.

Released in February 2019, the song drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love,” starring Kyoko Fukada.

The awkward feelings of cherishing someone irreplaceable and the aching sorrow of being unable to confess are conveyed with a tender, comforting melody that strikes the heart.

Though simple, the carefully woven lyrics tell a story of unrequited love that almost everyone has experienced, leaving a deep imprint on the listener’s memory.

miracleUru

Uru “Miracle” × “Kounodori” Collaboration MV

This song was chosen as the theme for the second season of the drama Kounodori, based on the manga by Yuu Suzunoki.

Go Ayano starred as the obstetrician-gynecologist protagonist, and the show also drew attention for featuring Gen Hoshino.

Throughout the series, the star-studded cast was a major talking point.

The singer-songwriter Uru, who performs this theme song, had previously had tie-ins with films and commercials, but many people may have discovered her through this drama.

It’s one of the songs that can be considered a signature piece in her catalog.

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Hane Keisuke

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Star Lablationkerakera

Kerakera – Star Liberation

This song was the theme for the romantic comedy drama Last Cinderella, starring Ryoko Shinohara and Haruma Miura.

In Last Cinderella, Haruma Miura played a BMX rider and had long hair.

Many viewers were likely captivated by his sultry, alluring performance in the show.

Although the drama aired in 2013, “Star-Libration” regained attention on TikTok in 2022, becoming popular with today’s younger generation as well.

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Hane Keisuke

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I tried falling in love with you.chay

chay "I Tried Falling in Love with You" (short ver.)

A heartbreak song with a retro sound reminiscent of 1960s American pop, depicting the pure feelings of a love-clumsy protagonist.

Delicately woven, it’s a gem of a love song that captures the flutter of taking your first step into love, the nervousness of a date, and how thoughts of someone special can feel like magic that empowers everyday life.

Released in February 2015, this track served as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Date: What Is Love Like?”—chay’s first tie-in with a serial drama.

Recommended for those who relate to earnest yet awkward feelings of love or who want to rediscover the beauty of romance.

Bittersweetarashi

Bittersweet

Arashi’s 42nd single depicts a love story that’s sweet and slightly bittersweet like a dessert.

Released in February 2014, it also drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Heartbroken Chocolatier,” starring Arashi member Jun Matsumoto, which began airing in January of the same year.

This tender, love-filled track sings of feelings for someone who can only be seen in dreams.

For those who have experienced heartbreak or are struggling to confess their feelings to someone special, its gentle, sweet vocals and lyrics will wrap your heart in comfort.

Bring it onKishidan

Kishidan / Brawl-Ready

This is a gem of a rock number that portrays the powerful way a woman lives.

It depicts a woman facing tough circumstances and forging her own path, and when combined with Kishidan’s characteristically energetic sound, it becomes a song that resonates deeply with listeners.

Released as a single in May 2014, it drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Gokaku Ganbo.” The collaboration with the drama was also a great success, with lead actress Machiko Ono making a guest appearance in the music video.

It’s a song that can give you strength and courage when you want to feel positive or stay true to your beliefs.

You…Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino “You” Live Performance - Kana Nishino “Kimitte”

An emotionally moving ballad that gently sings of deep feelings for a loved one, set to a simple yet profoundly resonant melody.

The lyrics convey genuine appreciation for the other person’s presence and the warmth of a supportive bond, further elevated by Kana Nishino’s clear, translucent vocals.

Released in November 2010 as her 12th single from SME Records, it stirred the hearts of many viewers as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Freeter, Ie o Kau.” It was later included on the album “Thank you, Love,” becoming one of Kana Nishino’s signature songs.

Highly recommended for moments when you’re struggling with a relationship with someone important, or when you want to sincerely express your gratitude.