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

TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – TSUNAMI MV

Released in January 2000, this song by Southern All Stars is a classic that portrays both the joy and sorrow of love.

Its tie-in with the TBS TV program “Unnan no Hontoko!” also drew attention.

The lyrics by Keisuke Kuwata reflect the social anxieties of the 1990s and the sense of desolation in the 2000s, resonating with many listeners.

The work offers a deep meditation on lost love and fate, evoking nostalgia—especially for men in their 40s who recall their youthful days.

Showcasing the wide musical range of Southern All Stars, it’s a great track to enjoy on a drive or while relaxing at home.

The Last RainYasushi Nakanishi

The Last Rain

This song, which depicts the bittersweet pain of heartbreak, was released in August 1992 as Yasushi Nakanishi’s second single.

Selling over 900,000 copies, it became a massive hit and established Nakanishi as a ballad singer.

The lyrics delicately portray the emotions of lovers parting ways, perfectly matched by Nakanishi’s soulful vocals.

The imagery—like a rain-soaked umbrella and the figure giving chase—symbolically captures the sorrow of the moment of farewell and leaves a strong impression.

Recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of a broken heart or look back on a past love.

It’s also a karaoke favorite, so be sure to give it a try.

I want to hug you.Mr.Children

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” Mr.Children [(an imitation) blood orange] Tour

This Mr.Children song is one I want you to listen to while recalling the bittersweet romances of your youth.

Released in December 1992, it was reportedly created for a friend’s wedding.

Its simple yet moving melody and lyrics filled with pure expressions of love will tug at your heart.

It’s a well-known, popular track, making it perfect for karaoke.

Try singing or listening to it while reminiscing about young love.

I for YouLUNA SEA

Luna Sea – I For You

A classic song by LUNA SEA, a visual kei rock band representing the 1990s.

Released in July 1998, it became a hot topic as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “God, Please Give Me More Time.” The original piece composed by SUGIZO was revised by RYUICHI.

It’s a warm, heartfelt track that even features SUGIZO’s mother on cello.

The lyrics gently express how the protagonist—who believed they were incapable of truly loving someone—comes to understand the meaning of love through meeting someone special.

A massive hit, the song has remained one of LUNA SEA’s signature tracks, loved for many years.

It’s perfect for when you want to remember what it feels like to be in love or to reaffirm your feelings for someone important.

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai

This song is one of singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara’s signature tracks, and even though it was released in 1992, you still hear it often.

Makihara’s gentle voice resonates over a mid-tempo, softly nuanced melody.

The lyrics depict a man who’s just gone through a breakup trying to act tough.

But the more he puts on a brave face, the more memories of her resurface and the more he realizes how important she was to him—making it a poignant heartbreak song.

It’s a recommended track for men who can’t easily shake off their lingering feelings.

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My LifeMr.Children

Mr.Children my life

Mr.Children, the powerhouse band that has produced countless classics and continues to lead Japan’s music scene.

This track, which closes their third album “Versus” released in 1993, is a hidden gem that was later included on the best-of album “Mr.Children 1992–1995.” Despite not being a single, it has long been cherished by fans and was even performed during their 2007 stadium tour.

The lyrics, which embrace the frustrations of everyday life and the pain of heartbreak as part of one’s own journey, really hit home.

Though it never had a flashy tie-in, Sakurai’s words—portraying down-to-earth struggles—may resonate especially with grown men who’ve tasted both the sweet and the bitter.

It’s a warm, encouraging number that helps you relax your shoulders when you’re feeling down.

windKobukuro

Kobukuro “Kaze”

This is a ballad that sets bittersweet memories recalled with the arrival of spring to a gentle melody.

Released in February 2002 as Kobukuro’s fourth major-label single, it was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Ucchi Kuru!?” and also inspired the drama “A Story I’ll Never Forget.” The lyrics trace feelings for a former lover and delicate emotions, as if time gradually melts away the pain.

Its depictions of spring are superb, and it’s a masterpiece that conveys not only sadness but also the strength to look forward.

The song was performed at the 57th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2006 and has remained beloved for years.

I’d especially recommend it to men who’ve had those moments when a past love suddenly comes back to mind and their chest tightens.