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

I wanted to kiss you again.B’z

I wanted to kiss you again.

This is a classic B’z ballad that portrays a heartrending love story between a man and a woman, set against the changing seasons from a summer meeting to a winter parting.

The lingering melancholy and Takahiro Matsumoto’s weeping guitar further deepen the sense of lingering regret and attachment.

Included on the album “IN THE LIFE,” released in November 1991, the song was initially a candidate to be released as a single, but was ultimately passed over because “ALONE,” which had a tie-in, was prioritized.

Even so, it remains extremely popular among fans, ranking 4th in the vote that determined the tracks for the best-of album “B’z The Best ‘Treasure’.” It’s the perfect song to sit with on a night when a fleeting moment brings back memories of a past love and tightens your chest.

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.

First loveMurashita Kōzō

Kozo Murashita “Hatsukoi” Music Video

It’s a song that’s popular among men at karaoke.

There have been covers by female artists, but this is definitely a song I’d love to hear sung by a man.

The heartbreak of a first love may be a fleeting moment beyond measure.

Listen to this song again and let yourself be moved.

to youMONGOL800

To You by MONGOL800

Among people in their 40s, those in the early half may be more familiar with Japanese rock.

In particular, I think many were fans of MONGOL800.

With that in mind, I recommend their song “Anata ni.” The vocal range for this track is quite narrow, from mid1 D to mid2 G.

While mid1 D is slightly low and doesn’t leave much room to lower the key, men with naturally low voices will likely find the original key comfortably singable, so it shouldn’t be a major issue.

The pitch stays fairly consistent, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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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.

Heart Rainindigo la End

Indigo la End “Koiame”

A heart-stirring ballad that quietly observes a bittersweet parting in love.

Its melody delicately captures subtle emotions, while the graceful sound of acoustic guitar and electric piano resonates deep within.

Released by indigo la End in February 2016, the song was featured as the TV commercial theme for the smartphone game ‘Shoumetsu Toshi’ and is also included on their second major-label album, ‘Aiiro Music.’ Told from the perspective of a woman reflecting on the end of a relationship, the lyrics leave a strong impression as they carefully express emotional shifts through the metaphor of rain.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart when you want to quietly accept the pain of heartbreak and move forward.

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.