The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs.

Children of the SunBEGIN

Children of the Sun

This is a song by BEGIN that paints a nostalgic scene reminiscent of summer vacations from childhood.

Its gentle acoustic sound, imbued with the breeze of Okinawa, and the soft vocals perfectly match memories of those carefree days spent running around.

From the lyrics, you can clearly imagine a straightforward wish for peace: if only everyone could keep a childlike, pure heart, there would be no conflict.

The song was included on the album “GLIDER,” released in March 1991, and later selected for the best-of compilation “BEGIN BEST 1990-2000,” making it a fan favorite.

When you’re worn out by the noise of daily life, listening to this track will warm your heart and bring you a sense of calm.

Beautiful in the past, beautiful nowBEGIN

Beautiful in the past, beautiful now

A heartwarming island song by BEGIN, filled with the soothing tones of the sanshin that seep into your soul.

The lyrics lovingly depict the everyday lives of our grandparents’ era and the island’s abundant nature, stirring a deep sense of nostalgia in listeners.

Carried by a gentle melody, the message to cherish both the timeless beauty of the past and the beauty that exists here and now comes through clearly.

First included on the album “Ongaku Brigades II,” released in June 1997, the song was later featured on “BEGIN no Shimauta ~Omoto Takeo~.” It’s perfect for those moments when, living far from home, you suddenly find yourself longing for the old days.

When you seek peace of mind amid a busy life, why not lend an ear to these tender tones?

Song of the SeaBEGIN

Song of the Sea

It’s a lyrical ballad woven by BEGIN that conjures up the sea of one’s hometown and a sky full of stars.

The gentle tones of the sanshin and the calm vocals softly wrap around your heart.

It feels like it teaches us the true strength and kindness that await beyond the setbacks and sorrow we experience while growing up.

This track is the B-side to “Birthday Song,” released as a single in May 1997.

It carries a message that deeply resonates with those striving far from home, inspiring them to believe in hope for tomorrow.

On nights when your heart feels a little tired, listening to this song and feeling the warmth of home might be just what you need.

Flower of loveaimyon

ai no hana

A gentle song by Aimyon, chosen as the theme for NHK’s morning drama Ranman, starring Ryunosuke Kamiki and Minami Hamabe, among others.

Aimyon shows a different side with each track, so it feels like each song has its own devoted fans.

The lyrics are exquisite, entrusting emotions to flowers and seeds, the blue sky and nature: “Both the feelings that reach someone and the ones that don’t—all feelings make a flower bloom.” Put into words, it may seem simple, but it makes you realize that people live “for the surely arriving brighter tomorrow.” The unadorned guitar sound is tender too, as if gently supporting the song.

STARikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “STAR” Music Video

If you’re looking to be soothed by gentle lyrics, STAR is also recommended.

This is Ikimonogakari’s first single as a duo.

Written as the theme song for the film Father of the Galactic Railroad, it’s a ballad that sings of a father’s unconditional love for his son and his wish for his happiness, all from the father’s perspective.

The lyrics are profound, prompting you to reflect on what love truly is.

Be sure to listen carefully so you don’t miss a single word.

Also, the way the sound swells toward the latter half creates a sense of openness—another highlight worth listening for.

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I’m not going to be fooled.riria.

riria. / I won't be fooled. [Music Video]

This is a breakup song filled with aching romance and strong resolve.

Written and performed by singer-songwriter Lillia, it was released in April 2024.

It drew attention after being chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “JK to Roppō Zensho.” The arrangement—band-driven, colored by piano and strings—overflows with a youthful vibe.

The lyrics carefully depict the process of overcoming betrayal and moving forward.

It’s sure to be a source of comfort for those bearing the pain of heartbreak or wishing to live true to themselves.

AlgernonYorushika

Yorushika – Algernon (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

It’s a work that digs up the emotions buried deep in your heart.

The song is by Yorushika and was released digitally in February 2023.

It was also used as the theme song for TBS’s Tuesday drama “Hold My Hand at Dusk,” capturing the hearts of many.

The lyrics, which urge you to keep moving forward through life’s maze while taking breaks when needed, really hit home.

You’ll undoubtedly be drawn into the world woven by suis’s clear, translucent vocals and n-buna’s literary lyricism.