[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.
- [2026] Latest Masterful Ballads | A Curated Selection of Heartfelt Love Songs and Uplifting Anthems
- [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
[Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces and the Newest Hits [2026] (181–190)
Night MusicMrs. GREEN APPLE

A masterpiece by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE that portrays the complexities of life and the clumsiness of love against the backdrop of a grand night sky and stars.
It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Silent Love,” released in January 2024.
The song powerfully sings about the importance of accepting and supporting one another through human vulnerability, loneliness, and the power of love.
Its memorable melody gently accompanies those “moments of returning to oneself,” offering a chance to face who you are and discover the true value of love.
The touching lyrics and beautiful sound will resonate with listeners seeking to boost their self-esteem or find meaning in life.
[Heartwarming] Masterpieces of Ballads: Timeless Classics and the Latest Hits [2026] (191–200)
Be…Ms. OOJA

This is a single released by Ms.OOJA in 2012.
It was written as the theme song for the drama “Renai Neet: Wasureta Koi no Hajimekata.” The lyrics convey the idea that no one can live alone and that we all support each other, expressing a positive message that you can truly shine as yourself because you are with someone important to you.
Combined with the strength of her vocals, the song evokes hope for moving toward the future and feels like it gives you a supportive push forward.
hana cherieNissy(Nishijima Takahiro)

A solo track released under the name Nissy by Takahiro Nishijima, who is active in AAA.
His beautiful, glossy vocals are striking, and they pair perfectly with the simple, delicate piano accompaniment.
Many women are likely to swoon at the warm message to his beloved: no matter how you are, you’re beautiful, and I’ll always protect you.
When such straightforward love is delivered through such a pure voice and melody, there may be nothing happier than that.
WhyNovelbright

When it comes to heart-wrenching ballads, many people probably think of Novelbright’s songs, starting with Tsukimisou.
“Doushite” is a love ballad released in August 2022 that sings of an inability to let go.
The lyrics, steeped in lingering regret and days that will never return no matter how much you look back, resonate with aching tenderness.
At the same time, the balance with the warm band sound—evoking flashes of happier moments—is striking.
Takenaka’s high-tone vocals, especially the falsetto at the end, stir the emotions to perfection.
IvyNovelbright

A song created for weddings is warming the hearts of many.
This track by Novelbright is gaining attention as a new staple wedding song.
It became available for streaming in October 2024 and was announced as a follow-up to the album “CIRCUS,” released in April of the same year.
The piece carefully depicts feelings for a loved one and the love that grows in everyday life, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s a perfect song not only for weddings but also for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone special.
Why not listen to it with the one you love and share the emotion?
evening primroseNovelbright

Released on December 11, 2020, this is Novelbright’s fourth major-label and sixth overall digital-only single.
It was also selected as the monthly song for the weather segment on Fuji TV’s “Tokudane!” in February.
This ballad features a piano-centered arrangement that pairs exquisitely with vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s soft, high-toned voice.
This is just my personal take, but I think the melodic bass line that comes in from the second chorus is also one of the highlights of the track.
Love and romanceNovelbright

Released in 2022, this song by Novelbright is a stunning love ballad that showcases vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s sharp, soaring high notes.
The lyrics, overflowing with feelings for a beloved woman, are sprinkled with depictions that anyone can relate to—so you’ll likely find yourself connecting with them, too.
Based on a guitar accompaniment, the programmed beats and softly crafted synths blend beautifully, creating a gentle, blissful sonic world that mirrors the imagery in the lyrics.



