A collection of moving songs recommended for men in their 40s: music that resonates with the heart

SPARKTHE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – SPARK

This is a rock number by THE YELLOW MONKEY that sings of passionate love.

It paints a worldview where you close your eyes and share a space with the night, and within its sensual expressions lies a pure heart wishing for eternal love.

The energetic guitar riffs and rhythm section leave a strong impression, and Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals resound over the dynamic sound.

Released in July 1996, the song drew attention as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Handsome Man.” It was also included on the album “SICKS” and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a perfect song for enjoying karaoke with friends, full of a charm that lets everyone open their hearts and sing along.

Beard and Boobsyunikōn

Unicorn - 'Beard and Boobs'

One of Unicorn’s signature works, this song humorously portrays the wavering emotions caught between a salaryman’s job and his love life.

Tamio Okuda’s lyrical world shines as he deftly weaves in modern workplace relationships, from a young company president to the woman at the neighboring desk.

Released in October 1991, the track features an arrangement inspired by the grand sound of Electric Light Orchestra, with a striking use of synthesizers.

As the closing song on the album “Hige to Boin,” it brilliantly conveys the complex feelings of a man who can’t give up on love even while being overwhelmed by work.

It’s a perfect pick for livening up after-work karaoke with colleagues.

huge nuisanceyunikōn

Unicorn - “Great Nuisance”

A blissful newlywed life in a brand-new home is shattered by a sudden solo assignment away from the family…

This is a UNICORN song that portrays the sorrows and inner conflicts of a salaryman with plenty of humor.

Its dramatic melody, fused with orchestral elements, perfectly matches the song’s unique worldview, resulting in a masterpiece that sharply satirizes Japanese society during the bubble era.

Released in April 1989 as the lead single from the album “Hattori,” it reached No.

12 on the Oricon charts and remains immensely popular among fans.

With lyrics that empathize with the feelings of corporate warriors and a catchy, karaoke-friendly melody line, it’s perfect for gatherings where friends want to reminisce.

I’ve always liked you.Saitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – I’ve Always Loved You [Music Video]

A lyrical love song filled with memories and lingering feelings from youth.

The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar and a voice that resonates in the heart quietly convey unfulfilled feelings and a love that passed by.

Kazuyoshi Saito’s tender vocals and guitar beautifully express nostalgia for the past and the emotions of the present.

Released in April 2010, it drew attention as the theme song for Shiseido’s IN&ON series commercials.

Since February 2017, it has also been used in Ito En’s “Oi Ocha” commercials, continuing to comfort many listeners.

It’s a song you’ll want to hum at class reunions or during long-awaited get-togethers, wrapped in fond memories.

Sing it with friends at karaoke, and its universally relatable lyrics will warm everyone’s hearts.

My WayDef Tech

Def Tech – My Way【Official Music Video】

This song passionately sings about the importance of walking your own path.

It conveys a powerful determination to keep moving toward lofty ideals while staying grounded, offering strong encouragement to listeners.

The warmly enveloping melody and its positive message blend beautifully.

Featured on the album “Def Tech,” released in January 2005, the track garnered numerous tie-ins, including a Yokohama Tires commercial song, a theme song for high school baseball, and an insert song for the film “Crows Zero II.” Def Tech’s signature Jawaiian reggae sound will be a reliable companion when you need the courage to chase your dreams or a boost to fire yourself up.

forever; for good; indefinitelyGReeeeN

Greeen “Forever”

A ballad layered with memories of lovers and infused with vows for the future.

With a lovely melody and heartwarming lyrics, it gently portrays days spent with someone dear.

Included on GReeeeN’s album “Shio, Kosho,” it has captured many hearts since its release in June 2009.

Focusing on the happiness found in everyday life, it tells a story of pledging eternal love through cherished photographs, and is also beloved as wedding background music.

Embracing the feelings of those in love and brimming with hope for the future, this work is recommended for moments when you want to reaffirm the bond with someone special.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

This song portrays the hardships and setbacks in life, and the journey of overcoming them to grasp hope.

It beautifully expresses the light that awaits beyond tears no one sees and the sweat shed in silence, woven with melodies and words that deeply resonate with listeners.

Released by Yuzu in July 2004, the song was chosen as NHK’s official theme for the Athens Olympics, and, together with the moment the men’s gymnastics team won gold, it became etched in the memories of many.

Loved as a cheer song for everyone striving toward their goals, it continues to offer support: to those taking steady steps toward their dreams and to those confronting the walls before them.

As a piece that accompanies the important moments of life, it delivers a powerful, heartfelt message that truly resonates.