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

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

The moment that poignant piano intro begins, many of you may feel your memories from that time come rushing back.

This is the 20th single by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, who continues to captivate countless fans with his overwhelming vocal prowess and expressive artistry.

Written as the theme song for the 2004 film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” it became a historic hit, topping the year-end charts.

The lyrics, which portray the sorrow of mourning a lost lover and the resolve to go on loving them in memory, never fail to bring listeners to tears.

Also included on the album “SENTIMENTALovers,” this ballad gently accompanies the heart of a man living on while carrying an unforgettable love.

On a night when you want to quietly lose yourself in memories alone, give it a listen.

ALONEB’z

B’z / ALONE

ALONE by B’z, released in 1991.

They say it was written with a mainstream ballad in mind.

It sings of the loneliness after a breakup, set against twilight streets and autumn scenery.

You can fully sink into the bittersweet feeling.

KaraBank Band

Bank Band 'Kara'

A soulful work by Bank Band that begins with the quiet resonance of a piano and gradually unfolds into a grand scale.

Its lyrics, interwoven with reflections on the depths of life and sharp insights into society, sound a warning to the modern world.

Released in January 2025, the piece beautifully blends Kazutoshi Sakurai’s emotionally rich vocals with Takeshi Kobayashi’s delicate arrangements.

Aina The End, Mone Kamishiraishi, and Salyu join on chorus, adding a vibrant flourish to the track.

Created for the ap bank fes ’25 performance, proceeds from this work are dedicated to supporting recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake, making it a meaningful contribution to society through music.

It is a jewel-like ballad that sinks deeply into the heart when your emotions are stirred, when you want to look within, and when you wish to connect with someone.

I don’t want to let go.T-BOLAN

T-BOLAN “I Don't Want to Let Go” Music Video

“Hanashitakunai,” released by T-BOLAN in 1991, was used as an insert song for the drama “Hotel Woman.” As the title suggests, it’s a passionate love ballad that conveys the feeling of “I don’t want to let you go.” It might be a good choice to dedicate to a lover.

I wonder if it will be sunny tomorrow.Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Will It Be Sunny Tomorrow? (Short ver.)

“Will it be sunny tomorrow?” It’s an everyday, casual phrase, yet it’s packed with all kinds of anxieties, expectations, and hopes—I can’t help but think, that’s classic Kuwata World.

This song became the theme for the drama “Operation Love.” It mirrors the frustrating romance between the protagonist and the heroine, adding deeper meaning to the story.

GIFTMr.Children

Mr.Children 「GIFT」 MUSIC VIDEO

Watching a man in his forties sing his heart out at karaoke can be moving even to bystanders.

Among such songs, Mr.Children’s “GIFT” is a timeless classic loved by people across generations.

Its lyrics and melody gently accompany you when you’re tired, and singing it can encourage yourself as well.

It’s often chosen for special occasions like weddings, and its lyrics, filled with deep affection, are likely to evoke empathy and emotion in women, too.

It’s truly a perfect number you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

I want to take only you away just like this.DEEN

I want to take only you away just like this.

DEEN’s “Konomama Kimi Dake o Ubaisaritai,” released in 1993.

This song, composed by Tetsurō Oda, was DEEN’s debut single.

It was featured in an NTT Docomo commercial.

The love song, which directly expresses affection for a lover, became a major hit despite being their debut track.