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 profoundly good. A song that sinks in the more you listen. Classic J‑Pop masterpieces, recommended popular tracks (111–120)
Song of Determinationbacho
Formed in 2002 and continuing energetic activities based in Himeji, Hyogo, despite multiple lineup changes, the rock band bacho.
The opening track of their second mini-album Rekonkista, Ketsui no Uta (Song of Determination), is a lyrical number that begins with an orthodox band sound.
Its lyrics, which sing of a resolve to change one’s life rather than halting out of overthinking the outcome, may encourage those who are similarly lost to take their first step.
Alongside the lyrics, the passionately memorable vocals stir the heart, making it a rock tune that delivers a strong message.
The lyrics are profoundly good. A song that sinks in more the more you listen. Classic J-Pop masterpieces: recommended popular tracks (121–130)
The Final RiverCHEMISTRY
A song I want you to listen to while thinking of someone you want to cherish for a lifetime is “Saigo no Kawa” (“The Final River”).
It was released in 2007 by CHEMISTRY, a male twin-vocal unit known for their clear, soothing voices, and it was used as the theme song for the film The Elephant’s Back.
The project drew attention because Yasushi Akimoto created both the original novel for the film and the song’s lyrics.
It’s a grand ballad that unfolds with beautiful synth tones.
Alongside their warm vocals, the lyrics depicting “life” resonate deeply.
It’s a masterpiece that teaches us that love for family endures, even when we are separated.
You know me.RC sakuseshon
A beloved classic highly popular among fans, released in 1980 as the B-side to RC Succession’s signature song “Ameagari no Yozora ni” (“In the Midnight After the Rain”).
It drew attention again in 2018 when Takuya Kimura covered it for a LINE sticker commercial.
The song, in plain, unadorned words, expresses a state of mind in which, as long as there’s a “you” who understands me, I can get through even the heaviest situations.
I don’t have an umbrella.Inoue Yosui
It’s a richly nuanced song that skillfully weaves together social issues and deeply personal struggles.
One of Yosui Inoue’s signature tracks, it was released as a single in July 1972.
Although it deals with dark themes like urban youth suicide, it’s striking how it also reflects a pure desire—“I want to go see you.” The feeling of one’s heart being soaked by the cold rain overlaps with a bittersweet longing for love.
Listening to it on a rainy day will likely let you sink into a quietly reflective mood.
NAOHY
When it comes to HY, I think many people find their bittersweet love songs especially appealing.
Among their many love songs, “NAO” is one that a lot of listeners deeply relate to and love, isn’t it? The lyrics depict a woman’s unrequited love, and the story is heartbreakingly painful.
The woman and the man she’s in love with have a “more than friends, less than lovers” vibe.
But his heart is drawn to another woman, so their relationship doesn’t progress.
Even when she tries to give up, he’s too kind for her to let go, and her feelings for him only grow stronger.
For anyone who’s ever found themselves falling deeper and deeper into love like this, this song will truly hit home.
To the futureKiroro
“To the Future” carries a message that lights the path for someone dear.
It was released in 1998 by Kiroro, a two-member music duo from Okinawa.
Many of you may know it, as it is often performed at graduation ceremonies and weddings.
Its warm sound—featuring beautiful piano and twin vocals—soothes the heart.
The song conveys kindness and compassion toward people in various relationships, such as parent and child, friends, and lovers.
Why not listen to it while thinking of someone who has always supported you?
SUNHoshino Gen
Gen Hoshino, who has also found success as an actor and is now truly one of Japan’s most beloved singers.
His song “SUN” was written as the theme for the drama ‘Kokoro ga Pockitto ne,’ starring Sadao Abe.
When you’re going through something tough—can’t sleep, can’t get out of bed the next morning—this is exactly the kind of track I’d recommend.
As you listen, your heart gradually feels lighter, and it makes you think, “Once you’ve hit bottom, the only way is up, right?” It even leaves you expecting that something good might be just around the corner.
