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A wonderful, moving song

[120% Empathy] A Collection of Moving Songs [Love, Friendship, Encouragement]

When it comes to moving songs, what kind of tracks come to mind for you?

Whether it’s love songs, fight songs, or songs about youth, I’m sure everyone has had the experience of thinking, “This song really moved me!!”

There are many different kinds of moving songs, but one common thread among them is that they often “overlap with our own experiences” in some way.

When we encounter lyrics or music that speak for the feelings we’ve been through, our hearts are touched by the power of music.

In this article, I’ll introduce many deeply relatable, moving songs.

Some may even move you to tears.

I hope you find the perfect song for you!

[120% Relatable] A Collection of Moving Songs [Love, Friendship, Encouragement] (21–30)

MetronomeYonezu Kenshi

The fantastical, atmospheric sound gently reaches deep into your ears.

It’s a song by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, also known for the hits “Paprika” and “Lemon.” Included on his third album, Bremen, released in 2015.

It likens the emotional misalignment between two loved ones to a metronome.

The heartrending lyrics and his warm voice inevitably loosen your tear ducts.

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism

This song was the turning point that instantly made them a staple in the Japanese music scene, wasn’t it? Even now, it remains one of their most popular signature tracks—its stylish, sophisticated sound, Satoshi Fujiwara’s beautiful, soaring vocals, and lyrics filled with a tender yet straightforward, powerful love are all so compelling.

Among these, what I particularly want to focus on in this article are the lyrics.

The song tells the story of the protagonist and a woman he cherishes deeply, but he realizes that he’s not worthy of her and chooses to step back.

It’s a track that leaves you with a heartbreaking feeling from the man’s actions and compassion as he wishes for her happiness.

If being alive is painfulMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – If Being Alive Is Painful
If being alive is painfulMoriyama Naotaro

Born into a musical family, singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama—whose exceptional talent has produced numerous hits including “Sakura (Solo)”—releases his 16th single.

From the startling opening line to the profound lyrics whose true meaning becomes clear at the end, many listeners will likely resonate with its message that inspires you to keep pushing forward in life.

Delivered in a gentle voice that carries words unafraid of being misunderstood, this is a song we want those earnestly facing a challenge to hear.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

The 3DCG-produced Doraemon film, STAND BY ME Doraemon.

Its theme song, “Himawari no Yakusoku” by Motohiro Hata, moved many people to tears along with the movie.

I’ve heard that the “you” and “I” in the lyrics refer to Doraemon and Nobita, and keeping that in mind while watching the film and listening to the song makes it all the more touching.

When it comes to someone important to us, we want to keep supporting them no matter the distance and wish for their happiness always.

It’s embarrassing to say such things out loud, but perhaps this song can speak on our behalf and convey how much we care.

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer / THE FIRST TAKE
Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi

It’s a song that can be called one of Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature pieces.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Lu Over the Wall” and covered by many artists, it’s a highly popular track.

With a sound centered on the acoustic guitar and Saito’s vocals, a gentle message comes through.

The lyrics portray someone who’s clumsy at expressing emotions—words that feel embarrassing to say in everyday life can be conveyed honestly when sung.

The song teaches that what’s in your heart won’t reach others unless you put it into words, letting you feel the importance of language.

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV
Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

It’s a coming-of-age song that fits not only the young but also adults, yet it’s one of those Makaen tracks I wish I’d discovered when I was younger.

Speaking of Makaen, their lyrics are captivating for how they put inexpressible feelings into words, and “Seishun to Isshun” really makes you think with lines that feel like they understand you.

It has an encouraging side that affirms being your true, everyday self and living as you are.

It’s a spring cheer song that teaches you the importance of throwing yourself into something and living in those fleeting moments that only exist right then.

The message that it’s not over yet really brings tears to my eyes!

Maplesupittsu

How about this for when you’ve had your heart broken and just want to cry your eyes out? It’s one of the signature songs by Spitz, a rock band that has been at the forefront of the Japanese music scene for many years.

The track was included on their 1998 album “Fake Fur” and was later released as a single.

Its relaxed rhythm, warm sound, and Masamune Kusano’s gentle vocals will soothe your wounded heart.