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

366 daysHY

HY – “366 Days” Live Music Video

It also drew attention as the theme song for the TV drama Red Thread, which adapted a hugely popular mobile novel of the time.

It’s a heartrending love song about someone who, even after breaking up with their partner, can’t forget them and keeps loving them with all their heart.

That bittersweet yet strong feeling is conveyed through powerful vocals, making it a track that truly moves you.

Pay attention as well to the piano tones that envelop the song’s atmosphere.

Rather than a song that forces you to bounce back from the pain and sadness of heartbreak, it gently stays by your side.

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HATSUMI

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In loveHY

HY - “In Love” (Theme song for the film ‘366 Days’) Music Video

Even if you weren’t the one they chose, the fact that you loved doesn’t change… A bittersweet yet forward-looking sentiment runs through this touching HY ballad.

Written as the theme song for the film “366 Days,” released in January 2025, the track is positioned as an answer song to their 2008 classic “366 Days.” It beautifully portrays emotional growth—rising from the pain of heartbreak and embracing even that experience as a cherished memory—and is also included on the album “TIME.” Set across Okinawa and Tokyo, the film unfolds a pure love story spanning 20 years, and this song superbly captures its worldview.

For those who have reached the end of a romance, or who are about to take a new step forward, this is a song that will gently give you a push.

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.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me [LIVE from M-ON!]

A rock ballad released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in 2019.

Like “Ao to Natsu,” it has received strong support from many music fans, including on streaming services.

When you’re struggling with feeling different from others, listening to it draws you in and the lyrics hit even harder.

It brings back various memories while also making you realize there are people who have suffered and rejoiced in the same ways, which lightens your heart.

It portrays the shadows honestly yet remains a quintessentially Mrs.

GREEN APPLE ode to life—a gentle yet powerful ballad that can serve as a guidepost for living.

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KEI

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trace (of someone/something), semblance, vestige; a lingering image or memory of how someone/something used to beNovelbright

Novelbright – Remnant [Official Music Video]

When you’re heartbroken and feeling down, I’d love for you to try singing “Omokage.” It’s a track released by the rock band Novelbright.

This piano-centered ballad conveys the inability to forget a former lover and the longing to see them again.

The song features beautiful high vocals, so if you’re good at hitting high notes, you can really make the most of your voice.

It also seems like a great song to gift to a friend who’s hurting—surely it will be healing.

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equalOfisharu Higedan Dism

equal

Official HIGE DANDism is a beloved national band known for their refreshing, emotionally resonant songs.

Their track “Equal,” included on the 2017 mini-album “Report,” captivates listeners and won’t let go.

While delving deeply into people’s values and ways of life, it conveys the message that everyone is equally important.

Satoshi Fujihara’s soul-stirring vocals and delicate piano melodies work like magic on the listener’s emotions.

The choral work in this piece carries a wish for happiness and celebrates the value of equality.

Overflowing with warmth, this song seems to bring calm to our restless daily lives, and as a pre-major-debut work, I consider it a hidden gem.

I recommend listening to it on a long, quiet night in a peaceful room when you’re seeking comfort.

Not fleetingSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Not Ephemeral” MV (Theme song for the film ‘Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween Arc -Decisive Battle-’)

“Hakanakunai” is a song created by SUPER BEAVER that portrays a powerful approach to living in the present.

It carries a message of cherishing every moment of life—no matter how painful, it is also beautiful—and Ryota Shibuya’s soul-stirring vocals strike directly at the listener’s emotions.

Chosen as a film’s theme song, it delivers a moving experience that deeply aligns with the story’s dramatic developments.

For listeners seeking a ballad, this track has the potential to become a new favorite.

It’s a compelling work that reaffirms the value of youth.

If you’re looking for a ballad that resonates with the heart, this is a must-listen.