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

Like the flow of a riverMisora Hibari

Like the flow of a river

A famous song by a Showa-era diva, released in January 1989 as the final single of her life.

Its lyrics, which liken one’s life journey to the flow of a river, resonate deeply with listeners.

The words were penned by Yasushi Akimoto, said to have drawn inspiration from New York’s East River.

You can feel the grandeur and calm of life, as well as the bonds with a loved one.

It also carries a message to younger generations, and it’s a song whose depth you come to appreciate more with age.

A perfect listen when you’re lost in life—or together with someone special.

GuildBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN "Guild"

A masterpiece that deeply questions the meaning of life and one’s own worth has been making waves.

The ballad released by BUMP OF CHICKEN in November 2006 is a work that expresses the self by likening life to a “job.” Its meticulously crafted guitar riffs and delicate vocals weave a melody that gently stays with the listener, evoking profound empathy.

The piece was also developed as a puppet-theater DVD, with band members serving as voice actors, expanding its world beyond music.

This is a song especially for those searching for what it means to live true to themselves, or for anyone feeling worn out by daily life.

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.

He was alive, wasn’t he?aimyon

Aimyon – I Was Alive [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This work is striking for its story-like opening lines and lyrics that delicately portray the characters’ emotions.

It is a single by Aimyon, who made her major-label debut in November 2016, and it was used as the opening theme for the TV drama “Is Kichijoji the Only Place You Want to Live?” Set to a medium-tempo arrangement centered on acoustic guitar, the song expresses deep empathy and a sense of closeness toward someone who chose to end their own life.

Through a unique perspective on social issues, its lyrics speak calmly about the weight of life, resonating especially with younger listeners and generating significant buzz as her major-label debut release.

It is a profound track that prompts reflection on the preciousness of life and the meaning of living.