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

Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi

Like the Moon Tonight / Elephant Kashimashi

“Like Tonight’s Moon,” released by The Elephant Kashimashi in 1997.

The song was used as the theme for the drama “Because It’s a Moonlit Night.” Koji Miyamoto’s vocals are unadorned yet warm, and they captured the hearts of many men.

budKobukuro

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

Speaking of Kobukuro, they’re artists who always captivate listeners with their wonderful harmonies.

All of their songs are moving, but “Tsubomi” especially conveys a heartfelt longing for someone dear—it’s very bittersweet, yet a heartwarming song that leaves you feeling warm inside.

single bedSha ran Q

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

Single Bed by Sharam Q, released in 1994.

The song was used as a theme for anime and TV dramas.

Back then, lying on a single bed, the couple would share their dreams.

Now that they’re apart, those days seem to shine even brighter.

It’s a ballad that sings of a bittersweet feeling many people can relate to.

Journey of the Heartchūrippu

Journey of the Heart

Tulip’s “Kokoro no Tabi” was released in 1973.

Tulip is a music group featuring Kazuo Zaitsu.

“Kokoro no Tabi” is a pop song with the flavor of 1970s folk.

It sings of the bittersweet parting before a journey, set to a bright, uplifting melody.

powder snowRemioromen

Remioromen – Powder Snow (Music Video Short ver.)

Konayuki (Powder Snow) by Remioromen, released in 2005.

It was used as an insert song in the drama 1 Litre of Tears.

When people think of “songs about snow” or “winter songs,” many probably think of this track right away.

Even though the two are together, there’s a loneliness as if their hearts can’t quite connect.

That bittersweet feeling matches perfectly with the image of powdery snow drifting through the air.

MissingKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video Short ver.]

Missing, released in 1986 by Toshinobu Kubota.

Kubota is a singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice, and he has produced many hit songs.

Although this track was included on his first album and was not released as a single, it has been loved and sung by many people.

Riverside HotelInoue Yosui

Riverside Hotel – Yosui Inoue, 1992, SPARKLING BLUE (Nippon Budokan)

Riverside Hotel by Yosui Inoue, released in 1982.

It was used as the theme song for the drama New York Love Story.

The distinctive melodic lines characteristic of Inoue and the lyrics themed around adult romance linger in your ears.

You might even find yourself wanting to sing it while doing an impression of Inoue.