[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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[Touches the Heart] Masterpieces of Ballads: Timeless Classics and the Latest Tracks [2026] (141–150)
A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru
Hikaru Utada’s clear, crystalline voice resonates in this gentle ballad.
Some say the lyrics are written about her late mother, but they can also be interpreted as expressing feelings for a lover.
It’s a song that invites listeners to find their own meaning, yet what’s common to all readings is the presence of a great love.
As you listen, try thinking of someone dear to you.
NonfictionHirai Ken
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.
AnswerIkuta Rira
A moving ballad by Lila Ikuta that weaves delicate emotional expression with a powerful message, portraying the search for answers to forge one’s own future.
It beautifully captures the protagonist’s emotional journey—from anxious nights curled up in tears to the resolve to carve out a path with their own hands.
Released in March 2021, the song was also featured in a Tokyo Marine Nichido Anshin Life commercial.
It gently encourages people who, despite feeling anxiety and loneliness in their daily lives, choose to face forward and overcome them.
It’s also recommended when you want to convey your feelings at karaoke.
Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi
The moving ballad “Letter to Tomorrow” leaves a strong impression with Aoi Teshima’s crystal-clear voice conveying a gentle warmth.
Known as a TV drama theme song, it remains in people’s memories as a piece filled with a bittersweet yet forward-looking message.
It brings the comfort of reuniting with an old friend and the courage to take a new step.
Its calm piano melody and delicately woven lyrics help you forget the bustle of daily life and slowly soothe the heart.
It always feels fresh, and it’s sure to continue being loved in the years to come.
In the midst of the trivialHoshino Gen
When it comes to heartwarming ballads that depict the everyday life of a couple, “Kudaranai no Naka ni” comes to mind.
It’s a song released in 2011 by singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino.
Centered around acoustic guitar, its delicate and warm melody leaves a strong impression.
It portrays a heartfelt relationship where, even when facing hardships or sadness, you can smile by goofing around with the one you love.
The song reminds us that true happiness lies in the everyday.
Let yourself be soothed by his gentle, conversational singing voice.
mysteryHoshino Gen
How about a love ballad where every single note sinks in? Released in 2021, this song is by the popular singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, known for numerous hits like “Koi” and “Sōzō.” It was written specifically for the drama “Kikazaru Koi ni wa Riyuu ga Atte” (There’s a Reason Why We Dress Up for Love).
The soft, city-pop sound is irresistible, and it’s finished with a touch of funk essence.
Be sure to listen to it as a couple—you’ll surely find yourselves cherishing each other even more.
Beyond the goodbyeMatsushita Kohei
Kohei Matsushita is active in multiple fields as an actor and singer.
His song “Sayonara no Mukō ni” is perfect for times when your heart feels worn out.
It’s a love ballad featuring a heartbroken man as the protagonist, vividly portraying how he’s crushed and loses the will to go on.
But it also depicts him rising to his feet again and beginning to walk toward the future.
Listening to it when you’re feeling down will surely give you courage.
The gentle, embracing jazz-tinged melody is another highlight.
