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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The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (141–150)
bento (boxed lunch)Hanbaato Hanbaato
A husband-and-wife duo, Humbert Humbert, included this song on their 2010 album Sasurai-ki (Wanderer’s Chronicle).
While friends around them are grabbing fast food, the lyrics depict the scene of savoring a homemade bento that still tastes good even after cooling on the bus—a blend of wistfulness and warmth.
It reminds you that the most ordinary days are truly irreplaceable.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel like pausing amid a busy day.
Love is litrokudenashi
A ballad whose delicate piano tones resonate in the heart.
Created by the music project Rokudenashi, it was released as a single in February 2023 and is also included on the album “Ai ni Saku Hana.” The lyrics, which evoke the warmth of someone’s presence lighting a candle amid loneliness and anxiety, gently comfort a weary heart.
It’s a song you’ll want by your side on down days or when you feel like you’re losing yourself.
Sounds of LoveOno Daisuke
Daisuke Ono, who has played many leading roles as a voice actor and has continued his music career for many years, released the song “Sounds of Love” in June 2022.
Written specifically for him by Yuji Sakai of The Gospellers, it’s a ballad filled with rich harmonies and a warm melody.
The lyrics portray sharing loneliness and moving toward the same light, and their gentle words ease the heart.
Ono’s voice—resonant from the low range through the mid-highs—envelops the listener.
Give it a listen on a weary day when you want to feel someone’s warmth.
By your sideMirei Touyama
It’s a ballad that carefully expresses sincere gratitude and love for someone precious who’s always by your side.
It’s a song by Mirei Toyama, released in November 2016.
Chosen as a recommended track on TV Tokyo’s music program “Cho-Ryuha,” it was aired for about a month.
The gentle sound of piano and strings blends with Toyama’s warm vocals, creating a comforting feeling that seems to untie your heart just by listening.
The lyrics, which let go of bashfulness and evasiveness to convey feelings straightforwardly, are sure to move you.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to say a heartfelt “thank you” that you don’t usually express.
A New StorySuzuki Emiko
A pure-love ballad by Emiko Suzuki that delicately portrays the special brilliance hidden in everyday life.
Listening to it makes you realize that the days of laughing and crying on repeat are, in fact, an irreplaceable story.
Released in advance in February 2022 as the lead track from the album “5 senses,” it drew attention for its tie-in with a bridal jewelry brand on TV Asahi’s “Promercial.” It’s a piece we hope you’ll listen to if you’re feeling the desire to cherish the time you spend with your partner anew.
PIECE OF MY WISHImai Miki
This song, released in 1991, was chosen as the theme for the drama “Ashita ga Aru Kara.” It’s one of her signature tracks, even performed once on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics carry a message like, “Believe in yourself and keep moving forward without giving up.” When you’re struggling or facing setbacks at work or in relationships, listening to this song will surely help you regain your footing and make a fresh start.
Its gently enveloping melody is also captivating, calming the heart as you listen.
Respect the POWER OF LOVEAmuro Namie
Namie Amuro’s powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in March 1999 and also used as the theme song for KOSÉ’s “VISEE” commercial, this track was produced by Tetsuya Komuro and marked Amuro’s second single after returning from maternity leave.
The lyrics are striking for their deep exploration of passionate love and the complexities of human relationships.
It’s the perfect song for reaffirming bonds with someone important or for motivating yourself.