A collection of back number’s heartfelt masterpieces: popular love songs

The curtain risesback number

back number – The Curtain Rises [Theme song for the film 'TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – Nankai Mission']

It’s a grand ballad written as the theme song for the film TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – Nankai Mission.

While confronting one’s own weaknesses and inner conflicts, it sings of the resolve to head toward the people who matter most.

Shimizu Iyori’s powerful yet delicate vocals and the rich, weighty sound produced by Takeshi Kobayashi sink deeply into the heart.

Released in July 2025, the song mirrors the movie’s story and powerfully stirs listeners’ emotions.

Many will surely find courage in the image of taking a step forward despite fear and anxiety.

Why not listen to it right before a big challenge or when you need to steel yourself? It’s a masterpiece full of kindness, like a warm hand gently pushing you forward.

the deepest partback number

Saishinbu

It’s a tense, razor-edged number that opens the album MAGIC.

As the first track on the album released in March 2019, it immediately draws the listener down into the depths of emotion.

MAGIC is a masterpiece packed with hit songs that served as themes for films and dramas, yet placing this deliberately tie-in-free track at the very beginning makes you feel the band’s unwavering resolve.

The lyrics depict the anxieties everyone hides deep inside, and a cry for help like an SOS seeking salvation.

The stark, inescapably real words penned by Iyori Shimizu pierce the heart.

It’s different from the bittersweetness of romance—listen to it on nights when you want to face your own fragility.

It will stay close to a lonely heart.

Red fireworksback number

Red Fireworks

This is a celebrated ballad that contrasts the end of a bittersweet romance with giant blossoms blooming in the night sky.

Amid the glittering scenery, it sings of loneliness and bravado that stand out all the more.

Although the song was included on the album “Humor,” released in January 2023, it had actually already been performed during the fan club tour in 2021.

Nurtured with care through repeated live performances, it was finally recorded and released in its definitive form.

It’s perfect for nights when you want to feel the sting of a farewell and the frustration of not being able to touch the one you love.

There’s no tie-in, but many listeners will no doubt be moved to tears by the band’s quintessential, heart-wrenching sound.

Immerse yourself in this world that is quintessentially back number.

by all means; no matter what; at any costback number

back number – No Matter What, No Matter What [Official Audio] (NHK Winter Sports Theme Song)

It’s a song that, in the tense chill of winter air, quietly yet fervently conveys an unextinguished will.

It doesn’t just celebrate the glittering moments of victory; it stands with those gritty feelings that push you forward even as you carry frustration and shame.

Released as a single in December 2025, it was written as the NHK winter sports theme song.

It will also be used in broadcasts related to the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, so many listeners may have felt encouraged hearing this melody on TV.

Beyond sports, it’s a cheer song that resonates with anyone clinging to a love or dream that may never come true, driven by a desperate “no matter what.” When you feel like you’re about to break, or on nights when you want to reaffirm your feelings, take the time to listen closely.

Summer Wonderlandback number

Summer Wonderland

This song was included as a B-side to the single “Old Fashion,” released in November 2018, and later featured on the album “MAGIC.” As the title suggests, it has a breezy, summery band sound, but it depicts more than just the sparkle of the season.

Shimizu Iyori deftly sings about a relationship that never quite comes to a boil and the summer heat we use as an excuse.

It’s also interesting that the track was initially crafted with a focus on performance, which ultimately led to its summery feel.

Among the tracks on the single that also includes the theme song for the TBS drama “A Love to Die For: You Who Forget Me,” this one shines with a uniquely striking presence.

It’s perfect for surrendering yourself to an energetic rhythm while savoring the slightly bittersweet aftertaste of love.

howlback number

Tooboe

Many of us have probably experienced the frustration of wanting to convey our feelings to someone but failing to reach them.

This song carries a lingering sense of sorrow, wrapped in the chill and the atmosphere of dawn.

It was included as a B-side to the 10th single “Tsunaida Te Kara,” released in March 2014.

The lyrics, written and composed by Iyori Shimizu, vividly reflect emotional loneliness through delicate details like body heat and breathing.

His style of painting scenes with concrete words is truly remarkable.

Although it didn’t have any notable tie-ins, this piece—born around the same time as the album’s production—has been quietly cherished by fans as a hidden gem overshadowed by the title track.

It’s recommended for moments when you’re alone in a quiet room, wanting to face your emotions.

Bubbles and Sheepback number

Awato Hitsuji

It’s a song called “Bubbles and Sheep,” included on the 2015 album Chandelier.

It’s an upbeat rock tune that candidly sings about the little downers and irritations we face in everyday life.

A short movie made in collaboration with director Yuichi Fukuda—famous for the Gintama films and the Hero Yoshihiko series—has also been released, so be sure to check that out too!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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