[Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
Ballads that are always close to our hearts and soothe our souls.
I’m sure you have a favorite song of your own.
But there are times when you think, “I want to discover ballads I’ve never heard before!”
In this article, we’ll introduce a wealth of moving, must-hear ballad classics just for you.
We’ve picked not only timeless masterpieces that have been sung for years, but also the latest tracks from today’s popular artists, so be sure to find a new favorite.
Listen to lots of beautiful ballads and let your heart be healed.
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[Heartfelt] Masterpieces of Ballads: Timeless Classics and the Newest Hits [2026] (61–70)
OrangeSMAP
It’s one of those classic ballads you want to hear in autumn, with a poignant yet warm piano melody that brings twilight scenery vividly to mind and gently soaks into the heart.
SMAP has many great songs, but this is one that many people might single out as especially special.
It depicts a breakup scene with a lover, yet its appeal lies in the fact that it’s not merely sad.
Concluding the farewell by deliberately replacing parting words with words of gratitude conveys a deep affection for the days they spent together and makes your heart swell.
There’s also a well-known story that the lyrics were changed at Takuya Kimura’s suggestion during the August 2000 recording.
Although it was a B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” its popularity earned it a place on their best-of album—a true gem of a ballad.
moon bathingYorushika
As the clamor of summer recedes and quiet nights grow more comforting, there’s a dreamlike song by Yorushika I want you to hear.
Their music is known for its literary worldview, and this piece is a beautiful ballad through and through, layering the feeling of cherishing what matters as time slips by over scenes bathed in moonlight.
Suis’s clear yet powerful vocals deepen the bittersweet, grand atmosphere even further.
Released in October 2023, the song also served as the theme for the feature anime Kaina of the Great Snow Sea: Star Sage, so many listeners may have immersed themselves in that world as well.
When you’re reminiscing about a joyful summer and feeling a touch lonely, this song will surely stay gently by your side.
Always by my sideFANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE
A gem-like pop ballad by FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE, selected as the theme song for the film “My Neighbor Stella,” releasing in August 2025.
In this piece, Yusei Yagi’s supple vocals deeply resonate with the film’s worldview.
“Even if we’re far apart, I’m always thinking of you”—a pure message to someone special is expressed through the lyrics and gentle sound.
Why not listen to it while thinking of the person you love and letting it overlap with your own feelings?
foxtail grassRADWIMPS
Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, who continues to create exquisite ballads.
His lyrics are characterized by inventive word choices and dramatic storytelling, and the warmth and kindness woven into them resonate deeply with many listeners.
In terms of sound, their ballads are especially notable for beautiful piano-centered arrangements.
Please take your time to savor this beautiful song, imbued with a message that feels cleansing to the soul.
miraclekururi
Kirinji’s “Miracle” is a gift for listeners seeking music that resonates with the heart.
Its gently flowing melody and distinctive lyrics evoke a feeling that is both nostalgic and fresh.
The tender, enveloping sound of the guitar has a calming power.
This song offers a moment to step away from the bustle of everyday life and face yourself.
The emotion embedded in its unadorned scenes is quiet yet deeply moving.
For many, it’s sure to be a soothing track that makes you forget the passage of time.
On a tranquil, lingering night, why not savor this ballad that gently loosens the heart?
Be happy, okay?matsumura kanau
Reflecting on memories while gazing at the sea alone—“Be Happy, Okay” is the perfect song for that kind of scene.
It’s a work released by the new-generation artist Kanau Matsumura.
This heart-wrenching breakup song portrays, from a male perspective, the moment he initiates the split for the other person’s sake, and how he later looks back on their memories.
While the word “sea” doesn’t appear directly, there are descriptions that evoke it.
Listen closely and see for yourself.
AfterwordTonbokōpu
A ballad that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the courage to look ahead.
Tonbo Corp’s “Afterword” was released in January 2025.
Its poignant lyrics addressed to a former lover and the emotional resonance of the guitar touch the heart.
Vocalist Rin Yukimura’s true-to-life voice faithfully conveys the protagonist’s feelings.
It’s a warm song recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to take even a small step forward in life.