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. A song that sinks in the more you listen. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs (181–190)
Beautiful in the past, beautiful nowBEGIN
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
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.
OathBEGIN
With its beautiful piano melody and powerful vocals, this uplifting anthem fuels the resolve to face any hardship.
Even when you feel discouraged by a horizon that seems to recede no matter how far you walk, it conveys in straightforward words the importance of never giving up and continuing toward tomorrow.
Released in August 2004 as a single by BEGIN, the song was used as the ending theme for the summer tradition “Netto Koshien.” If you’re hitting walls on the path to your goal and feel your spirit wavering, this is the song you need to hear.
Listen, and you’ll find yourself thinking, “I’ll give it one more try,” ready to look ahead and take a strong step forward.
to go see (someone) / to go meetaimyon
It’s a warm folk-rock song that gently wraps around the feelings deep in your heart.
It’s Aimyon’s 16th single, released digitally in May 2023.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Unmet: A Neurosurgeon’s Diary,” its lyrics strikingly align with the drama’s theme of “memory.” Each word, carried by the sound of the acoustic guitar, is sure to resonate with you—perhaps even bringing a cherished person to mind.
happiness!!!Kimura Kaera
It’s a message song marked by an exhilarating, heart-thumping melody.
Written by Kaela Kimura, it was released as a digital single in October 2004.
Many may recognize it as the song used in Rohto Pharmaceutical’s “Sesera” commercial.
Through Kaela’s warm vocals, it conveys the importance of finding happiness in everyday life.
Listening to this track during a hectic day might just help you feel a little lighter.
deep-sea fish10-FEET
The movie THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, released in December 2022, became a major sensation.
During its production, another masterpiece was born.
This song, written and composed by TAKUMA, was created by empathizing with the perspective of a certain mother who appears in the story.
You can keenly feel the anguish and love of someone who can’t be honest with herself, seeing the image of her deceased son in the son who is still alive.
The track is included on the album Collins and was written impulsively in parallel with the production of the candidate theme song.
Listening to it after watching the film may add even greater depth to the characters’ stories.
It’s a song I hope you’ll play on a quiet night when you want to reflect on someone dear to you.
The Little Bird That Forgot How to FlyMISIA
MISIA’s song overlays the image of a bird so wounded it has forgotten how to fly with the hidden fragility everyone carries in their hearts.
It is said to embody the artist’s own belief that no matter how strong we pretend to be, inside we are as vulnerable as a little bird that has lost its way.
Beginning with a quiet piano and unfolding into majestic strings, the sound itself traces the journey of a heart finding light amid confusion.
The track is included on the million-selling album “KISS IN THE SKY,” released in September 2002, and is widely loved as the theme song for the RPG “Star Ocean: Till the End of Time.” It’s a tale of renewal that, when listened to on nights you feel crushed by your own powerlessness, inspires you to cherish the warm happiness that lies beyond the pain.