Uplifting songs recommended for men in their 40s

Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

This song is imbued with a warm gaze and deep respect for people who usually remain out of the spotlight.

Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.

It is an ode to unsung heroes who keep making efforts in various places, shining like stars in everyday life.

Released in July 2000, the piece was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s documentary program Project X: Challengers, and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.

It set a record by staying on Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.

It is a song that gives you a powerful push forward in those moments when the pressures of daily life make you want to stop.

lipsGLAY

GLAY / Lips

An erotic number that captures both aching infatuation and passionate love.

Swept up by irresistible desire, the protagonist’s heart grows increasingly unsettled by feelings for their partner—expressed powerfully against GLAY’s signature, high-velocity sound.

The striking guitar riff and melody sung in a higher key further accentuate the emotions swirling within.

Released in May 1997, the song was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP” from April to June of the same year, and became a major hit as the band’s first Oricon No.

1.

It’s the perfect track for cranking up the energy with friends at karaoke or letting your feelings out.

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.

Embracing SummerTUBE

TUBE “Embrace the Summer” MUSIC VIDEO

With a sound that evokes clear blue skies and a shining sun, this is a quintessential summer song from TUBE.

It conveys a love so intense it keeps you awake at night, expressed through passionate lyrics and melody.

The protagonist’s once-in-a-lifetime feelings are sure to stir memories of bittersweet love that many have experienced.

Released in May 1994, this smash hit topped the Oricon charts and sold 940,000 copies.

It was also featured in a Toyota Corolla Ceres commercial and has become a karaoke staple loved by many.

It’s the perfect track to share with close friends or colleagues as you reminisce and look back together on life’s milestones.

The rattlesnake is comingTonneruzu

The rattlesnake is coming

With its cheerful, upbeat sound, this opening theme for the Fuji TV variety show “Tunnels’ Thanks to Everyone” captured the hearts of viewers.

Released by Tunnels in January 1992, the song brilliantly fuses Yasushi Akimoto’s clever wordplay with Tsugutoshi Goto’s lively melody.

At first glance it seems like a simple, fun story, but its lyrics are appealingly dual-layered, allowing for deeper, more adult interpretations.

Reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts for the first time and selling 1.409 million copies, the song has been loved across borders, with covers in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

It’s the perfect track to liven up parties and gatherings, delivering a joyful moment that gets your body moving.

Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi

Like the Moon Tonight / Elephant Kashimashi

It’s a deeply moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of passion for the future while gazing into everyday feelings of emptiness and loneliness.

Set against the backdrop of a city at dusk, it portrays the solitude and struggles of people living in an urban landscape, yet conveys a strong will to keep looking forward and moving on.

The soulful vocals unique to Elephant Kashimashi and the melody that resonates with the heart are beautifully in harmony.

Released in July 1997, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” and was also included on the album “Run Toward Tomorrow – Moonlit Songs.” In 2017, it was performed in the band’s first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, winning over even more listeners.

It’s a track that will evoke deep empathy when you feel lost in life or spend a night thinking of someone dear.

WON’T BE LONGBaburugamu Burazāzu

Bubblegum Brothers “WON’T BE LONG” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A track marked by an irresistibly catchy, upbeat groove and a festival-like, uplifting rhythm.

Inspired by the Awa Odori dance, its forward-looking message—filled with a powerful resolve to give your all for someone—really strikes a chord.

It features the Bubblegum Brothers’ signature breezy sound and approachable lyrics.

Released in August 1990, it initially drew little attention, but after being broadcast on a TV program in March 1991, it exploded in popularity and became a million-seller.

In 2006, it was also covered by EXILE and Kumi Koda.

It’s an encouraging anthem that gives energy and courage—especially recommended for those worn out by work or daily life.

It’s also perfect for livening up a karaoke session with friends.