The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs.
When you listen to music, what do you focus on?
There are many aspects you might pay attention to—such as the vocals, the mood of the song, or, if you create music yourself, the overall structure of the track.
Among these, many people probably focus on the lyrics.
One of the best things about lyrics is that they let you feel the message of the song in the most direct way!
In this article, we’ll be introducing plenty of songs with deeply evocative lyrics that are incredibly compelling.
We’ve picked out many pieces that become moving once you understand their meaning, so be sure to listen closely.
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- Good songs themed around love, encouragement, and life—tracks with lyrics you can relate to.
The lyrics are deeply moving. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (91–100).
Midnight ExpresswayOkazaki Taiiku
A song I want you to listen to when you’re really at rock bottom, when things are tough: Shinya Kousoku, sung by Taiiku Okazaki.
Originally a signature number by Flower Companyz, many people will recognize it as the SMBC Group commercial song in which Okazaki also appears.
Its lyrics put into words those gloomy, swirling feelings that linger in your chest, resonating with people from different backgrounds and generations.
The chorus is one that will make many listeners tear up—some even sob—and it’s the kind of song you’ll want to keep as a talisman for life.
Surely more than anyone else in the worldNagayama Miho
The song that makes you realize everyone is the protagonist of their own world is “Sekai Chuu no Dare Yori Kitto” (“Surely More Than Anyone in the World”).
Miho Nakayama—who is also active as an actress—released it in 1992, and it’s known as a collaboration with the rock band WANDS.
Its straightforward, passionate band sound is striking.
Alongside her glamorous vocals, an orthodox melody resounds.
The lyrics about reuniting with a fated love after a breakup are romantic.
Listen to it while remembering the miracle of having met your partner.
fateTani Yuuki
This song carries a powerful message: even if everything is determined by fate, we can still carve out our path by making choices of our own will.
It questions what talent truly is and where the line between happiness and unhappiness lies, portraying a protagonist who turns both cheers and jeers into fuel to keep moving forward.
Released in March 2023, it was also included on the album “Tamentai,” which came out the same month.
The song was originally written for Ryota Katayose and used as an insert track for the TV Tokyo drama “Unmei Keisatsu” (Fate Police).
It’s a ballad for everyone chasing their dreams.
FarewellSEKAI NO OWARI
A song by SEKAI NO OWARI, released digitally in April 2023.
It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Wednesday drama “My Dear Husband.” With its lively melody and Fukase’s soothing vocals, it features a refreshing sound arrangement that leaves a strong impression.
The comfort of the chorus is so well-crafted it can wash away the anxiety and hardship swirling in your heart.
When you listen, you’ll surely picture your best friend or partner.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
This is “Gurenge,” the theme song of the hugely popular anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
“Gurenge” was composed around the theme of not running away from hardships and facing them head-on.
It’s a song that perfectly matches the world of Demon Slayer.
It’s definitely a track you’ll want to listen to when something tough happens or when you’re feeling down.
Seven Billion PiecesHata Motohiro
This song is a track released in 2016 by singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata.
The lyrics express the preciousness of the one person who stays by your side out of seven billion people and the love you feel for them.
Listening to it makes your feelings for someone special grow even stronger.
Featuring beautiful accompaniment by acoustic guitar and piano, the message in the lyrics and Hata’s vocals reach straight to the listener’s heart.
There’s a hole in my heart.Yorushika
A track included on the second album, “Elma.” It connects to the previous work, “That’s Why I Gave Up on Music.” The protagonist, Elma, receives a letter from the previous work’s protagonist and sets off on a journey.
As you follow the lyrics, you can savor the scenery of Elma’s travels.
This song expresses Elma’s frustration at searching for traces of the previous protagonist yet being unable to grasp them.
