[Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]

ifCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] if / CHAGE and ASKA

A lovely song by CHAGE and ASKA that topped the Oricon charts for two consecutive weeks, even though it’s a gently delivered ballad.

You’ll swoon over the melody, grow to love it as you listen closely to the lyrics, and surely find yourself wanting to sing it, too.

Singing it at karaoke makes it clear: ASKA’s vocal prowess is remarkable, and CHAGE’s harmonies are exquisite—this uniquely pleasant sound is something only Chage and Aska can create.

The lyrics are pure, wishing only for a loved one’s happiness: “Even if I’m not the one to make you happy, as long as you’re happy, that’s enough.” A must-hear ballad, even if you’re not a fan.

rootKing Gnu

King Gnu – Root

A warm, gem-like mid-tempo ballad that sings of the value found even in those who don’t stand out.

Alongside the characteristically beautiful piano and strings of King Gnu, nursery rhyme–style choral parts and contemporary beats are interwoven, culminating in a weighty track that evokes the passage of time.

It’s a precious song imbued with deep affection—quietly accompanying one’s feelings and gently embracing care for someone dear.

Written as the theme song for the TBS Sunday drama “Diamonds Sleeping in the Sea” in October 2024, it’s equally at home soundtracking peaceful moments with someone special or a nighttime drive, letting you savor a refined, adult-tinged ballad.

NonfictionHirai Ken

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This is a gem-like ballad by Ken Hirai that powerfully portrays the profound sorrow of losing a close friend and the struggles of life.

Its tender, moving sound centered on acoustic guitar and Hirai’s rich, lustrous vocals gently envelop the heartfelt longing for someone lost.

In the music video, filmed at an amusement park at night, dancer Takeki Kudo’s striking performance gives visual form to a cry of the soul.

Released in June 2017, the song also drew attention as the theme for TBS’s Sunday drama “Chiisana Kyojin” (A Small Giant).

This work resonates deeply with those grieving the loss of a loved one or standing at a crossroads in life, offering a song that truly stays close to the heart.

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai

A gem-like ballad that delicately portrays the pain of heartbreak and the hope of taking a new step forward.

Noriyuki Makihara’s gentle vocals tenderly envelop the protagonist’s complex feelings as they struggle to accept a breakup with their lover.

While carefully depicting the loneliness and confusion felt in everyday life, it also resonates with the positive resolve hidden behind the words “I won’t fall in love anymore.” Released in May 1992, the song was used as the theme for the drama “After the Children Are Asleep,” reaching No.

2 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.

7 for the year.

It’s a song that stands as emotional support, accompanying you through the healing process of a broken heart.

to UBank Band

Bank Band with Salyu「to U」 from ap bank fes ’10

“to U” is Bank Band’s first original song, centered around music producer Takeshi Kobayashi and Mr.Children’s vocalist Kazutoshi Sakurai.

It’s also a collaboration with female singer Salyu.

The track was used as the theme song for TBS’s “Tetsuya Chikushi NEWS23” and reached No.

2 on the Oricon singles chart.

Its mystical lyrics are striking, and it’s a masterpiece with an all-embracing warmth.

“to U” also serves as a charity song, with proceeds funding the activities of ap bank, an organization focused on environmental issues.

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Hamada Takuya

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fragileEvery Little Thing

Every Little Thing / fragile

Released in 2001, this is Every Little Thing’s 17th single and a popular song that was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It became a hit that won many awards, including the Excellent Work Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards and the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.

One of its charms is a melody line you won’t forget once you’ve heard it.

Notably, the story-style music video continues into the next release, “Graceful World.”

Song for…HY

Song for…

One of the finest love songs by HY—who have created numerous love songs—is “Song for…”.

It’s a mellow, slow-tempo track featuring a distinctive band sound that gently supports the piano accompaniment.

Most compelling of all is the warm, richly textured voice of lead vocalist Izumi Nakasone.

The song portrays the heartbreak of a couple who love each other but can’t meet, making it a track that long-distance couples will likely find deeply relatable.

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Hane Keisuke

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