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. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (141–150)
Dream FighterPerfume
“Dream Fighter” is a song by Perfume, released as a single in November 2008.
It was used as the opening theme for the TV program “Kore tte Watashi Dake?” The lyrics, about embarking on an endless journey to attain the “best,” are striking.
It’s a motivational anthem that gives you the strength to keep running toward your dreams.
The exhilarating sound pairs perfectly with the refreshing vocals.
It’s a song you should listen to especially when you feel close to giving up—you’ll surely feel energized.
Until today and from tomorrowyoshida takurou
It’s a timeless classic that quietly speaks to the truths of life.
Released by Takuro Yoshida in July 1971, the song initially struggled due to a lack of promotion, but its popularity grew through live performances, and it became one of his signature pieces.
In 2001, it was even chosen as the theme song for Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Adult Empire Strikes Back, earning support across generations.
The lyrics, which question the meaning of life and give you the courage to look forward, truly resonate.
When you’re going through tough times or feeling lost, listening to it will surely give you strength.
be aliveKoyanagi Yuki
It was released in 2000 as Yuki Koyanagi’s fifth single.
Serving as the lead single for the album “EXPANSION,” it was featured in Kanebo’s Testimo TV commercial.
The single became her first to reach No.
1 on the Oricon chart and won the Grand Prix at the 33rd Japan Cable Radio Awards.
The song portrays a long-distance relationship between two people pursuing different dreams, with a grand scale and strikingly powerful vocals that resonate deeply.
The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music: recommended popular songs (151–160)
50%Ofisharu Higedan Dism
As a pep song dedicated to people who tend to push themselves too hard in modern society, Official HIGE DANDism’s gentle message strikes a chord.
It speaks to us with a grand, gospel-tinged sound, encouraging us to face forward at our own pace without overexerting ourselves.
Written as the theme song for the film Cells at Work! released in December 2024, the piece gives voice to those living in an era where endless competition is the norm.
It also harmonizes beautifully with the film’s worldview and its message of “taking care of your own body.” It’s best enjoyed while relaxing in front of a smart speaker.
When you want to soothe a tired mind and body, when you feel like treating yourself kindly, this song will surely be by your side.
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.
HANABIMr.Children
For anyone who feels powerless and is spending each day without meaning, I want you to listen to Mr.Children’s “HANABI.” It was released as a single in 2008 and chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Code Blue: Doctor Heli Kinkyuu Kyumei.” It even topped the Oricon Singles Chart for two consecutive weeks.
The lyrics liken hope amid various struggles to fireworks, conveying a determination to move forward.
The intro melody is memorable too, so definitely give it a listen!
