[Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs

Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Rainy Blue

The debut song by Hideaki Tokunaga, a poignant love story that begins in a late-night phone booth.

Its lyrics—quintessentially Showa—paint cinematic scenes of urban stillness and rain, perfectly intertwined with delicate, emotionally rich vocals to create a gem of a track.

Released in January 1986, it reached No.

90 on the Oricon charts.

A rearranged version released in November 1997 rose to No.

31, capturing the hearts of many.

By portraying heartbreak and loneliness as universal themes, it remains a beloved classic that resonates even today.

It’s the kind of bittersweet love song you’ll want to play on a rainy day—why not give it a listen?

AsterAkito Asu

Meito – Aster / ASU – Aster

This work is presented by the virtual singer, Ato.

Set against the backdrop of the cosmos and the stars, it delicately portrays loneliness and hope.

Its crystal-clear vocals blend with a beautiful melody to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released early on December 29, 2024, it is included on the second album, “ray of hope.” Written and composed by Akita Horie, the song symbolizes the album’s theme of “light.” The lyrics, where transience and eternity, warmth and loneliness intersect, remind us of the importance of each fleeting moment in life and our connections with others.

It’s a song that seeps into the heart—one you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.

AWAKEHoshimachi Suisei

AWAKE / Suisei Hoshimachi (official)

An EDM-driven track that really captures fans’ hearts.

It’s included on Suisei Hoshimachi’s third album and was released in November 2024.

Beneath its pounding beats and electronic textures lies a powerful determination to pursue what you believe in.

The song delivers an uplifting message about having the courage to move forward without fearing change and the belief that you can change the world through your own actions—it really fires you up.

It’s a bold piece that showcases Hoshimachi’s spirit of challenge, and it’s perfect as BGM when you want to get motivated!

Aino’s optimal solutionRime × Asu

RIM × ASU – The Optimal Answer of Love / The Answer of Love – RIM & ASU

You can’t help but be captivated by the delicately crafted sound arrangement.

It’s a duet by RIM and Ato, released digitally in November 2024.

First unveiled at V.W.P’s 2nd one-man live “Phenomenon II (Re) – Witch Expansion,” this piece is remarkably polished, with every single sound feeling incredibly satisfying.

The lyrics portray the emotions of two protagonists who miss each other in passing yet still care deeply for one another.

Highly recommended with headphones or earphones!

AzaleaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Azalea

A delicate love story woven by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.

Unchanging feelings despite distance, new encounters, and memories of the past.

Released for streaming in November 2024 as the theme song for the Netflix drama “Sayonara no Tsudzuki.” Words that symbolize cherished memories—like cuttings in bloom and old photographs—are scattered throughout.

With a gentle tone that embraces both lost love and new beginnings, much like the flower language meaning “happiness in being loved by you.” It’s a song that comforts those who have lost someone they love and those ready to take a step into a new romance.

In the music video, the city before dawn and Yonezu’s presence are strikingly portrayed.

Seed of FateAitsuki Nakuru

Nakuru Aitsuki – Seed of Fate (Official Video)

It’s a song whose tale of bittersweet love and destiny resonates deeply.

Released in November 2024, it poetically depicts two travelers journeying through the cosmos as they move toward tomorrow.

The lyrics convey an acceptance of life’s fragility and beauty, and a determined hope entrusted to a future with a loved one.

Aitsuki Nakuru’s vocals brim with emotion and depth.

It’s a track I especially recommend to anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

Ame-no-Murakumo no Tsurugi – SKYBREAKER –Nishikawa Takanori

Takanori Nishikawa – Ama-no-Murakumo Sword -SKYBREAKER- | Official Music Video (Opening Theme for “Thunderbolt Fantasy: Sword Travels in the East 4”)

The music that colors this grand tale is brought back to life by Takanori Nishikawa’s vocals.

It’s a perfect fit for the world of the story, with powerful singing and a dynamic sound that grabs you.

Released digitally in December 2024 as the opening theme for Thunderbolt Fantasy: Sword Travels in the East 4, the song also features Nishikawa voicing a character in the series, conveying his deep attachment to the work.

Expressing the epic world and the characters’ inner conflicts through music, this track is highly recommended listening before you watch the drama or film.