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

Christmas songback number

back number – Christmas Song (full)

It’s the perfect song for a winter night when, despite the glittering bustle of the city, you can’t help but think only of someone special.

The lyrics carefully portray the frustration of not being able to see the person you want to see right away, and the tenderness that overflows anyway—it really tightens your chest, doesn’t it? Released in November 2015 as back number’s 14th single, the track quickly rose to fame as the theme song for the TV drama “5→9: From Five to Nine.” Produced by Takeshi Kobayashi, its warmly poignant sound—woven from piano and strings—is exceptional.

Gently embracing everyone in love, as well as those spending the holy night with a touch of loneliness, this piece is also included on the acclaimed album “Chandelier.”

Last LoveKato Miria

Miliyah Kato 'Last Love'

The work she created is a breakup song that perfectly fits the phrase “a heartbreakingly sad love ballad.” Through lyrics she wrote herself, it portrays with striking realism the aimless sense of loss and the lingering attachment that won’t fade after losing the one you love.

The grand, beautiful strings only seem to accentuate the loneliness at heart, and the clear, translucent vocals resonate as if asking a question—so achingly bittersweet.

Released in June 2010 as her 18th single, the track was later included on her acclaimed album HEAVEN, which became her first to top the charts.

When you’re carrying the pain of an unforgettable love, this song gently stays by your side in your helplessness.

Heart KnotYuuma

Yuma “Heart Knot” Official Music Video

This is a warm ballad by Yuma, written to celebrate the departure into a new chapter of a dear person.

Released in July 2025, it carries a special backstory: it was created as a wedding gift for his own manager.

The song gently weaves pure gratitude and blessings for the future.

The calm tones of piano and acoustic guitar further highlight its straightforward message.

If you listen when you want to express appreciation to a friend or partner, it’s sure to warm your heart.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for a wedding song!

Liar MoonYorushika

Liar

This ballad by Yorushika is perfect for autumn, when the hustle and bustle of summer settles down and a certain loneliness sets in.

Delicate piano melodies intertwine with vocalist suis’s clear, translucent voice, seeping deeply into the listener’s heart.

It portrays the loneliness of a protagonist who continues to wait, even as memories of a loved one fade away.

That feeling overlaps with the bittersweetness of summer coming to an end, making it all the more moving.

This beautiful song was produced as the ending theme for the anime film A Whisker Away, released in June 2020, further deepening the story’s emotional afterglow.

On those long autumn nights when you want to reflect on seasons past, it’s a piece to savor alone, slowly and fully.

heartbeatFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Heartbeat <31st Anniv. Live “Slow Collection”> (Short ver.)

A poignant yet warm ballad that captivatingly portrays the turmoil of an unexpected love.

The protagonist, who had decided never to fall in love, grapples with confusion and a loneliness hidden behind a brave front, all conveyed through Masaharu Fukuyama’s richly emotive vocals.

Included on his original album “AKIRA,” released in December 2020—his first in six years and eight months—the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “#Remolove: Normal Love Is for the Weak.” Its delicate melody reflects the nuances of the protagonist’s emotions, making it a deeply satisfying listen.

Try listening while thinking of someone special.

LetterUru

[Official] Uru “Tegami” Theme Song for the Film ‘Yukikaze’

Singer-songwriter Uru, who captivates listeners with her deep vocals and enigmatic presence.

This song, written as the theme for the film “YUKIKAZE,” set for release in August 2025, features a grand ensemble arranged by Takeshi Kobayashi that resonates deeply.

Its lyrics quietly reflect on the preciousness of everyday life under the same roof with a loved one and the meaning of carrying life forward, delivering a message that grips the listener’s heart.

It’s a magnificent ballad you’ll want to keep listening to.

To be feat. Daichi MiuraØMI

ØMI – To be feat. Daichi Miura (Official Music Video)

A work that feels like a soulful dialogue woven by two of Japan’s foremost vocalists.

An epic ballad released in July 2025, with ØMI inviting Daichi Miura as a featured artist.

Over a warm yet dignified track crafted by UTA, they sing a powerful message: beyond life’s struggles and solitude, there is always light.

The way their vocals—combining delicacy and strength—melt together feels as if pain is turning into kindness.

It’s a song that gently nudges you forward when you hit a wall and feel like stopping.