Recommended love songs for men in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks.

Wine Red Heartanzenchitai

Wine Red No Kokoro

A gem of a love song that portrays an adult romance where reason and instinct intersect.

Its melody, passionate yet tinged with a certain fragility, and Koji Tamaki’s sweet, aching vocals resonate deeply.

When we look back on the loves of our past, perhaps the memories of forbidden romances we all may have experienced will vividly return.

Released in November 1983, this track became Anzen Chitai’s first number-one hit on the Oricon charts.

It also drew major attention as the image song for Suntory Akadama Punch’s commercial and as the theme song for the drama “Machigai Darake no Otto Erabi” (“Choosing the Wrong Husband”).

I recommend this piece to those who have experienced profound love that touches on the subtleties of life, or to anyone who wishes to convey long-slumbering feelings in their heart to someone special.

Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “Winter Begins” (Music Video) [4th Single] (1991) / Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo

Makihara Noriyuki—fondly known as “Makkī”—is an indispensable figure when talking about the music scene of the 1990s and a genius singer-songwriter whose name is etched in Japanese music history, leaving behind many timeless songs.

His naturally smooth, unadorned, and expansive voice that reaches listeners’ hearts directly; melodies that are not swayed by passing trends; and lyrics that superbly capture vivid scenes and shifting emotions through simple word choices—his talent is universally acknowledged.

Among his many classics, the 1991 release “Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo” is relatively easy to sing, and the signature high notes typical of Makihara are somewhat restrained, making it a good recommendation for those who struggle with high registers.

Be mindful of the shuffle rhythm, and take care to stay on pitch!

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Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Let’s Become a Family (Full ver.)

A heartwarming proposal song that vows love for the next 100 years.

This exquisite ballad crafted by Masaharu Fukuyama gently portrays marriage and family bonds.

The lyrics, which convey compassion for one’s partner and a vision of a couple’s future, carry a deep desire to pass on the love inherited from one’s parents to the next generation.

His powerful yet at times tender low register beautifully captures the feelings of a man quietly resolved.

Released in August 2011, the song was featured in a commercial for the wedding magazine Zexy and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It has also become a beloved wedding staple for expressing gratitude.

Midsummer FruitSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Midsummer Fruit [Live at Chigasaki Park Baseball Stadium, 2023]

A classic song released in July 1990 that poignantly portrays a bittersweet love.

As the theme song for the film “Inamura Jane,” directed by Keisuke Kuwata, this ballad was presented to the world by Southern All Stars.

Set against the transition from late summer to autumn, it delicately weaves the feelings of a man reflecting on a past romance with subtle melodies and beautiful words.

Memories by the seaside, the lingering traces of love that remain in the heart, the loneliness of being drenched by the chill of autumn rain—its poetic world resonates deeply with listeners.

After its release, it reached No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became a hit certified Platinum.

It’s a song that gently accompanies those nights when you want to dwell in the afterglow of summer and face your nostalgic memories.

You’re My Only Shinin’ StarNagayama Miho

You’re My Only Shinin’ Star

It’s a romantic ballad that beautifully portrays a moonlit scene.

The song weaves feelings of a miraculous encounter and a vow of eternal love together with a gentle melody.

Under the starry sky, it’s a graceful tale that will resonate in your heart, making you want to listen while thinking of the one you love.

Miho Nakayama’s clear, translucent voice tenderly embraces an emotionally rich world that spins a story of everlasting love.

Released in February 1988 and crafted by Toshiki Kadomatsu, the piece reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It also left a strong impression as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mama wa Idol!” starring Nakayama, and won the Japan Record Awards Gold Prize.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of daily life and savor your gratitude for someone special.

Why not spend a calm moment immersing yourself in this heartwarming, gentle love story?

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.

ForeverGosuperāzu

The Gospellers “To Eternity” at International Forum 2017/7/9 Short Ver.

This celebrated song, which sings of an eternal bond with a loved one, gently conveys the unbreakable feelings that exist precisely because love is formless.

Transcending physical distance, the unwavering longing for the other person resonates in the heart alongside beautiful harmonies.

Released in August 2000, the track stayed on the Oricon chart for an impressive 44 weeks and was selected as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s JAPAN COUNTDOWN.

Its diverse arrangements—hallmarks of The Gospellers—are part of its appeal, including the Album Version on the album “Soul Serenade” and the “unplugged live version” included on the single “Hitori.” It remains a beloved song that makes you want to sing while thinking of someone special, especially after time spent talking with friends.