[Spring Songs Recommended for People in Their 40s] Relive Your Youth! A Selection of Nostalgic Tracks

cherry blossomKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Sakura”

One of the signature songs by the music group Ketsumeishi, this smash hit was released in 2005 as their 11th single.

From the intro alone it can bring you to tears—a piece with a calm, wistful atmosphere.

The depiction that contrasts falling cherry blossom petals with memories of a cherished person resurfacing in your mind really hits home.

It’s a classic spring song that makes you inevitably look back on your own youth.

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Araki Jakkan

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Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako

Tomorrow, when spring comes

A debut single by Takako Matsu that gently and poignantly captures the tenderness and wistfulness of spring.

Used as the theme song for NTT’s “Exciting New Life Campaign” commercial, this piece refreshingly sings of feelings for “you,” who is devoted to baseball.

Upon its release in March 1997, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon charts and was also performed at that year’s 48th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With a clear, transparent voice and lyrical melody, it nestles close to the heart with the arrival of spring, gently encouraging those entering a season of new encounters and farewells.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

A blessing song composed for a wedding has become a beloved spring classic across generations.

Its lyrics gently portray the transition from winter to spring, and the flowing melody resonates deeply.

Created to celebrate a member’s friend’s wedding, the piece gracefully weaves together gratitude for loved ones and hope for the future.

Released in March 2004 as Remioromen’s second major single, it was featured in a commercial for AOKI Holdings and as the ending theme for TBS’s “Pooh!”.

In 2005, it was also used as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears,” further boosting its recognition.

This is a highly recommended track for moments when you want to reflect on the changing seasons in everyday life and the bonds you share with those dear to you.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

A masterwork by Yumi Matsutoya that delicately portrays the longing for spring.

Released in October 1994 as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, it became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Its emotionally rich melody—woven from nostalgia for days gone by and anticipation of a new season—resonates deeply with listeners.

More than just a seasonal song, it embraces universal themes of renewal and hope, and has been featured in commercials for Suntory’s BOSS Rainbow Mountain Blend and All Nippon Airways.

Cherished by many as a heartwarming number that accompanies life’s milestones and new beginnings in spring, it continues to be beloved today.

my graduationSPEED

SPEED / my graduation -Music Video-

It’s a classic song that portrays the end of youth and a new beginning.

Released by SPEED in February 1998, it remains a beloved staple of graduation songs.

Its lyrics delicately weave together farewell to a past love, personal growth, and hope for the future, resonating deeply with listeners.

The track is included on the albums “RISE” and “MOMENT,” as well as the best-of compilation “SPEED THE MEMORIAL BEST 1335days Dear Friends 1.” It’s a perfect song to listen to at life’s turning points—one that gives you the courage to face forward.

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Tohku Tohku

A gemlike ballad by Noriyuki Makihara that gently portrays the feelings of anyone living away from their hometown.

With a warm, tender voice, it envelops the delicate emotions where the struggle in a new place intersects with the desire to remain unchanged.

Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” the song was released in June 1992.

In later years, it was featured in an NTT East Japan commercial, drawing a strong response.

It was also used in 2007 for the reunion special of the TV program “Marumaru Chibi Maruko-chan.” This classic quietly stays by the side of anyone who wishes to stay connected with their loved ones despite the distance.

dizzinessDREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – Vertigo (from THE DREAM QUEST TOUR 2017 Live Ver.)

A ballad by DREAMS COME TRUE that portrays the moment when you suddenly stop in the spring breeze and memories of the past come flooding back.

Included on the album THE LOVE ROCKS, released in February 2006, it was used as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama special “Ai to Shi o Mitsumete.” Miwa Yoshida described it as her “first straightforward ballad,” and its structure—where the scenery before your eyes triggers a rush of memories—leaves a strong impression.

Stripped of ornate embellishments, the soundscape lets Miwa Yoshida’s voice reach straight to the heart.

The album featuring this track topped the Oricon charts and was certified Double Platinum.

It was also selected for the 2015 best-of compilation DREAMS COME TRUE THE BEST! Watashi no Dorikamu, making it a song that has been cherished over time.

It’s a number that gently accompanies you when you want to spend a quiet moment in the season of dancing cherry blossoms, or when you wish to immerse yourself in memories with someone dear.