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

treasure holderAina ji Endo

Aina the End – Takaramono [Official Music Video] (Theme song for TBS Sunday Theater 'Goodbye Maestro: My Father and My Appassionato')

Aina the End’s solo track.

Her uniquely husky voice pairs beautifully with the warm mid-tempo ballad.

With lyrics themed around “gratitude to an irreplaceable person” and “growth through parting,” the song resonates deeply with listeners.

Released on February 5, 2024, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama Sayonara Maestro.

It’s also worth noting that the song was crafted to align closely with the drama’s worldview.

This is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone precious or stands at a crossroads in life.

My sincere heartAina ji Endo

My sincere heart

A solo track by Aina the End, known as a member of BiSH.

Her husky, expressive vocals match beautifully with the gentle piano accompaniment that creates a jazzy vibe.

The lyrics, which pour out her feelings for a man she wants to truly understand her, are emotional and deeply moving.

It’s also a song worth noting because Yasuyuki Okamura wrote both the lyrics and the music.

The studio recording is, of course, fantastic, but it also makes you imagine how cool it would be to see her perform it live with a full band behind her.

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Hane Keisuke

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Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

If you’re going to talk about J-pop ballads, Angela Aki’s song is indispensable.

It was originally written as the set piece for the junior high division of the 2008 NHK National School Music Competition.

The lyrics are based on a letter she wrote to her future self when she was 15.

It’s a masterpiece that stirs up all kinds of feelings just by listening.

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Saitō Ayumu

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Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

Isn’t this the very definition of a classic rock ballad? It’s a love song that conveys feelings for a special someone in a straightforward, manly way.

It’s often used at weddings and receptions, too.

While it’s categorized as a ballad, it doesn’t get too mellow or subdued—that’s one of the key points of this song!

Ikuriipuhaipe

I

When it comes to love songs that convey overflowing affection in straightforward words, “I” comes to mind.

It’s a track created based on “Douse, Ai da,” a song released in 2020 by the rock band CreepHyp featuring rapper Soraone.

Carried by a sound where grand strings intertwine with guitars, Ozaki Sekai-kan’s vocals resonate as if expressing heartbreaking emotions.

The somewhat wistful yet heartwarming lyrics and melody offer a sense of comfort.

It’s a ballad that delivers the honest feeling of wanting to be loved, even just a little, after realizing the presence of someone who saved your heart.

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mutō

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budKobukuro

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

This is a song Kobukuro wrote specifically as the theme for the TV drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” With this track, they won the 2007 Japan Record Award, becoming the first male folk duo to achieve that honor.

The lyrics express gratitude to a mother, and the song is often performed at weddings.

The music video, which unfolds a story through shadow puppetry, is also a must-see.

the red threadKobukuro

Kobukuro “Red Thread”

Kobukuro, known for the beautiful harmonies of Shunsuke Kuroda and Kentaro Kobuchi, have been performing their song “Akai Ito” since their indie days.

It was included on their 2000 indie album “Root of my mind,” and was re-recorded in 2008 and featured on the single “Toki no Ashioto.” The music video for this version features Yui Aragaki, and the song was also used in a Nippon Life commercial.

There’s also a cover version of “Akai Ito” by Yui Aragaki, so be sure to compare the two!

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Hamada Takuya

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