Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories.
As a man in your 40s, what kind of music do you usually listen to?
Of course, you probably hear a lot of the latest hits, but chances are you still love the songs that were with you during your youth.
In fact, when it comes to songs popular among men in their 40s today, many of them are tracks that made waves around the 1990s.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of Japanese songs—focusing on hits from that era—that are especially recommended for men in their 40s.
They’re full of classics perfect for karaoke or for listening to in the car, so definitely give them a listen.
They might just bring back memories from those days.
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Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories (101–110)
YAH YAH YAHCHAGE and ASKA

It is an aggressive track emblematic of the ’90s, infused with power and passion for the future.
Even when faced with difficult circumstances, its message of unwavering resolve to stay true to oneself and keep moving forward, along with hope for the future, continues to resonate across generations.
The song channels the passion of chasing dreams and an unyielding stance in the face of trials through a powerful rock sound.
Released by CHAGE and ASKA in March 1993, it was used as the theme song for the drama “If You Turn Around, He’s There,” topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks, sold 2.419 million copies, and ranked first on the annual singles chart.
It’s highly recommended for those who want to challenge themselves in pursuit of their dreams without fear of failure, or for anyone standing at a major crossroads in life.
It’s sure to give you courage.
Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuFIELD OF VIEW

This song is characterized by its refreshing melody and lyrics that gradually intensify the feeling of being in love.
Captivated by the other person’s smile, it conveys a positive determination to break free from the darkness and the courage to embark on a new adventure.
Released in March 1996 by FIELD OF VIEW, the track features a powerful performance by the band and emotive vocals in perfect harmony, and it also drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Dragon Ball GT.
With heartwarming lyrics by Izumi Sakai and a memorable melodic line by Tetsurō Oda, this is a highly recommended song for those who want to relate to the feelings of being in love or look back on memories of their youth.
lipsGLAY

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.
A person who loves springGLAY

A gem of a ballad born from the inspiration of witnessing people endure Iceland’s harsh winter while longing for spring.
It poetically depicts the changing of the seasons and human emotions, and its heartwarming melody—woven by delicate piano tones and the band’s dynamic groove—leaves a strong impression.
Included on the album “BELOVED,” released in November 1996, this GLAY number also gained popularity the following year as the B-side to the single “Kuchibiru,” and has been featured on numerous classic releases, including the best-of album “DRIVE-GLAY complete BEST.” It’s a song we especially recommend to those who, while awaiting the arrival of spring, hold dear the feelings they have for someone special.
forever; for good; indefinitelyGReeeeN

A ballad layered with memories of lovers and infused with vows for the future.
With a lovely melody and heartwarming lyrics, it gently portrays days spent with someone dear.
Included on GReeeeN’s album “Shio, Kosho,” it has captured many hearts since its release in June 2009.
Focusing on the happiness found in everyday life, it tells a story of pledging eternal love through cherished photographs, and is also beloved as wedding background music.
Embracing the feelings of those in love and brimming with hope for the future, this work is recommended for moments when you want to reaffirm the bond with someone special.
Songs popular among men in their 40s: timeless classics that bring back memories (111–120)
Endless JourneyMr.Children

This is one of Mr.
Children’s signature works, featuring impressive lyrics that depict the journey of life and a grand, sweeping sound.
Its universal messages—about the importance of moving forward, the courage to face hardship, and the quest to find your ideal self—resonate deeply.
Released in October 1998 and used as the theme song for the TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it became one of their defining tracks.
It’s a song that will surely support those who keep striving toward their dreams and goals, as well as those standing at a crossroads or searching for themselves.
HEART OF SWORD ~Before Dawn~T.M.Revolution

This is a gem of a song, known as the ending theme of the anime Rurouni Kenshin, that powerfully sings of loneliness and hope.
Set in the stillness before dawn, its strong will to believe in one’s own path and move forward is expressed through a forceful melody.
Its striking, tempestuous sound and emotionally rich vocals resonate together, piercing deeply into the listener’s heart.
Released as T.M.Revolution’s third single in November 1996, it was used twice as an ending theme during the anime’s broadcast run.
It has been included on numerous acclaimed records, such as the albums “restoration LEVEL→3” and “B★E★S★T.” When you feel lost in life or are facing an important decision, listening to this song is sure to give you the courage to take a new step forward.



