[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.
- Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth.
- [Songs I'd love women to sing!] Popular ballads performed by female artists
- A poignant ballad song. A tear-jerking masterpiece of Japanese pop music.
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- [Tear-Jerking] Classic and Recommended Love Ballads
- [Resonates with the Heart] Masterpiece Ballads with Beautiful, Poignant Lyrics
- Today's recommended ballads: A carefully curated selection of heartwarming, gem-like masterpieces!
- A beautiful melody soothes the heart… Heisei-era ballad hit songs
- A lineup of timeless masterpieces to pass down to future generations! Ballad songs born in the Reiwa era
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- [Take it easy] Recommended ballad songs to help you sleep
- [Karaoke] Classic and Popular Ballad Songs You’ll Want to Sing at Karaoke
- Nothing but classics! A nostalgic collection of ’80s Western ballads
[Heart-Touching] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces and the Newest Hits [2026] (171–180)
fragileEvery Little Thing

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.”
HOWEVERGLAY

HOWEVER is the memorable song with which GLAY achieved their first million-seller.
Written and composed by TAKURO, it is a love song about his girlfriend at the time.
Although the demo reportedly received harsh feedback from the other members, it has since become one of GLAY’s signature ballads.
The lyrics, which express the immense importance of a loved one and the desire to walk into the future together, are likely to resonate deeply with many women.
It’s easy to see why it has become a popular wedding song—an exceptionally happy, heartfelt ballad.
Together forever…GLAY

Written by TAKURO of GLAY, this classic is still often played at weddings.
It was originally composed as a song to give to vocalist TERU’s older sister when she was getting married.
It remains a highly popular love song among women, who often want men to sing it.
Answer keyJUJU

JUJU has many famous ballads.
“Kotaeawase” is a 2021 single produced by Koichi Tsutaya, with lyrics by Sachiko Aoyama (formerly of Negoto) and composition by YOSHIHIRO, who is also active as a support musician.
While it’s a bit uptempo to be called a ballad, it’s a cozy song that feels like walking at the same pace, enveloping you in a warmth that accepts you with a smile even when you seek answers.
When you’re with someone you love, there’s nothing to fear—there’s a comforting sense of security that warms the heart.
Recommended when you’re craving a gently soothing ballad.
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

This is the ninth single by JUJU, a female singer-songwriter renowned for her powerful vocals.
Released in 2009, the song was featured in several commercials and has been covered by many artists, making it one of her signature tracks.
Some of you may have seen JUJU herself collaborate on this song with a legendary singer on a TV show.
It’s a beloved ballad popular across generations.
[Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces and the Newest Hits [2026] (181–190)
day by dayKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON’s songs sing powerfully about overcoming the joys and hardships found in everyday life.
Set to a pop-rock sound, they carry a positive message.
Released as a digital single in December 2024, this track also expresses gratitude to their fans.
It’s a song that stays close to the listener’s heart and gives courage, so please give it a listen when you’re having a tough time or feeling down.
I’m sure it will lift your spirits!
glass windowKing Gnu

This song was written specifically as the theme for the film “Mystery to Iu Nakare.” Life presents various hardships, but the lyrics, which give us the courage to face them, are particularly striking.
The message “Weakness isn’t defeat” is sure to resonate with listeners.
The track is included on the album “THE GREATEST UNKNOWN,” released in November 2023.
It’s a work that fully showcases the exceptional musicality of each member of King Gnu, and vocalist Satoru Iguchi’s overwhelming vocal prowess is another highlight.



