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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- A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Good songs recommended for people in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
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- Good songs themed around love, encouragement, and life—tracks with lyrics you can relate to.
The lyrics are profoundly good. A song that sinks in the more you listen. Classic Japanese hits: recommended popular songs (171–180)
It should be a little better when the moon gets closer.ASKA
A grand, live vocal performance that is sure to set your heart ablaze when you hear it.
This song was included as the closing track on ASKA’s 1995 album “NEVER END.” It sings of everyday struggles and the accumulating pain that anyone can relate to.
You might get through the moment somehow, but it’s so difficult to truly recover a mind and body worn down with fatigue.
Only time spent doing nothing brings a sense of release… The aching emotion that seems to resonate with that inner signal of the heart seeps through every note.
In the live video, pay attention to the unvoiced cries from the heart that aren’t part of the lyrics near the end.
You’ll be overwhelmed by the soul-stirring power of ASKA’s singing.
It’s a moment to pause and reflect on the preciousness of life.
rootKing Gnu
A story woven with a translucent tone.
A King Gnu track that expresses understated yet profound affection.
Written as the theme song for the TBS drama “Diamond Sleeping in the Sea,” it was released digitally in October 2024.
Using the roots of a flower—quiet yet always supporting someone precious—as its motif, the song delicately portrays subtle emotions.
Without flashiness, it sings of the importance of being someone who stays close to another’s heart.
Its resonant lyrics and beautiful melody gently enfold the listener.
A song that softly stays by the side of those struggling with love or relationships.
Let’s talk.Fujihara Sakura
Singer-songwriter Sakura Fujiwara, known for a wide-ranging musical style that prominently features the classical guitar she has played since childhood, has released “Hanasouyo,” the lead track from her fourth album AIRPORT—a number distinguished by her warmly enveloping vocals.
The contrast between the gentle, airy arrangement and the sentimental lyrics makes it a song you’ll want to keep listening to.
It’s an emotional pop tune whose soft sound soothes the heart.
I feel like going home.ikimonogakari
There are times when you feel a pang of longing as you think of your hometown, aren’t there? Ikimonogakari’s song “Kairitaku Nattayo” gently embraces those feelings.
Released in 2008, it was created as the theme song for the film “Sand Clock.” Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, transparent vocals and the heartfelt lyrics penned by Yoshiki Mizuno leave a lasting impression.
If you’re in a season of setting out, or living apart from family and friends, it will surely resonate with you.
tear-coloredNishino Kana
It was released in 2013 as Kana Nishino’s 21st single.
It served as the lead single from the best-of album Love Collection ~pink~, also released in 2013, and expresses the hope that memories of a former lover will someday become beautiful.
Please give it a listen when you’re going through a heartbreak.
The lyrics are profoundly good. A song that sinks in the more you listen. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs (181–190)
forever; for good; indefinitelyBEGIN
A heartwarming song about building a future together with someone special.
The gentle tones of the sanshin and Eisho Higa’s expressive vocals draw you into a relaxed mood.
Even if you can’t choose where you were born and raised, anywhere becomes a “hometown” as long as you’re with the one you love.
That hopeful feeling is easy to imagine even without reading the lyrics.
Released in February 2004 as one of the tracks on a double A-side single, it also became well known as the commercial song for Marukin Chuyu’s “Ryukyu Moromi Vinegar.” Even those who usually feel too shy to express their feelings will want to say, “Every day I spend with you is a treasure,” after listening to this piece.
It’s a classic we hope couples starting a new life together will hear.
Children of the SunBEGIN
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.