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.
- A playlist of timeless gems with piercing lyrics that will move your heart
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- Songs with strong messages. Classic J-Pop masterpieces and recommended popular tracks.
- Songs with powerful lyrics. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- A beautiful Japanese song that purifies the heart. A highly recommended classic.
- The power of words. A special feature on Vocaloid songs with great lyrics
- Songs with great lyrics: soothing tracks that linger in the heart and moving ballads
- A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Good songs recommended for people in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- [When You're Lonely] A Collection of Songs That Resonate With Those All Alone
- Good songs themed around love, encouragement, and life—tracks with lyrics you can relate to.
The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (1–10).
BurningHitsuji Bungaku
It’s a striking piece that feels like your deepest emotions are being forcibly drawn out—almost gouged—leaving a vivid impression.
It’s a song by Hitsujibungaku, released in July 2024, and it drew attention for being used as the ending theme for the anime Oshi no Ko.
The charm lies in Moeka Shiozuka’s soaring vocals, Yurika Kasai’s high harmonies, and Hiroa Fukuda’s powerful drumming.
The lyrics delve into complex human feelings—such as the gap between reality and ideals and the search for self-worth.
It may especially resonate with those who want to confront themselves.
aruku aroundSakanakushon
Aruku Around depicts days of moving forward even while feeling lost.
Released in 2010 by Sakanaction, a rock band that brings listeners sounds infused with elements of techno and pop.
Its classic, memorable melody line rides on a danceable beat reminiscent of disco music.
The deep lyrics, filled with self-questioning, convey a strong thematic core.
Even those currently wrestling with inner conflict may find themselves getting into the groove thanks to the humorous synth tones.
Dive into the electro sound that reveals new discoveries with every listen.
As you areCentipede & Rhyme Man
A bittersweet love song that stays close to your heart.
It’s a track by the duo Hyakuzoku & Inman, formed by Hyakuzoku and Inman, released in February 2023.
The song became a major hit, topping weekly charts on LINE MUSIC and Apple Music.
Layering the two artists’ flows over gentle soundscapes, it captures the complex feelings of being in love.
The lyrics, conveying the ache of unrequited love and a caring heart for the other person, are sure to resonate with anyone troubled by love.
The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (11–20).
Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE
This work by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE was released digitally in April 2023.
It was also chosen as the theme song for the ABC TV/TV Asahi drama series “Even If It’s Just Sunday Night,” drawing significant attention.
The bright, buoyant arrangement pairs perfectly with vocalist Motoki Omori’s clear, uplifting voice.
The chorus feels so satisfying that it sweeps away the anxieties and hardships swirling in your chest.
It’s a song that gives a gentle push to everyone doing their best day by day.
Endless JourneyMr.Children
Mr.Children is a quintessential, nationally beloved Japanese band.
“Owarinaki Tabi” (Endless Journey) was released in the ’90s, a decade when many uplifting songs became hits.
I’m sure many people found encouragement in this song, too, but if you take time to read the lyrics closely, you’ll see it’s not just saying, “Keep your chin up and push forward.” It gently nudges you along, acknowledging that this can happen, and that might happen, yet we still have no choice but to move on to the next door.
fragrant oliveorenji supainikurabu
Some people may feel a sense of nostalgia in the scent of osmanthus.
This work by Orange Spiny Club is included on their first mini-album, “Whenever I’m Irritated,” released in January 2020.
It gained popularity on streaming platforms and TikTok, topping the Billboard JAPAN Heatseekers Songs chart for three consecutive weeks and generating buzz.
The song portrays scenes from youth, conveying the bittersweetness of young love and the smell of summer’s end.
Why not listen to this track and reminisce about the past?
Sharks and MermaidsOkamura Kazuyoshi
A song with a mysterious allure that draws you in and lingers in your heart.
It’s a work by Okamura-Kazuyoshi, the unit formed by Yasuyuki Okamura and Kazuyoshi Saito, released in April 2024.
This ballad showcases the distinctive personalities of the two artists, highlighting a musicality that is both delicate and dramatic.
The lyrics are striking, portraying the fragility and strength of love against the passage of time—from the stillness of night to the arrival of morning.
Using the contrast between a shark and a mermaid, it depicts the connection between different beings.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a world like a secret moment for two, as if diving into the deep sea.