Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z
Love songs have always enjoyed immense popularity in the J-POP scene, no matter the era.
From bands and singer-songwriters to idol groups, they’ve been sung by a wide variety of artists since long ago.
Even in today’s world—often said to be experiencing a growing disinterest in romance—love songs continue to resonate with many listeners.
So this time, we’re introducing love songs performed by male artists that we especially recommend to Gen Z, who are living in this very modern age.
From hit tracks to hidden gems, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list, so be sure to find the songs that suit you!
Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
CITRUSDa-iCE
A song themed around a citrus fragrance that showcases Da-iCE’s bold new direction.
Its lyrics convey that small moments of happiness, kindness, and love—things we often overlook—are close at hand, offering fresh insights to those of us living in today’s society.
Released in November 2020 as the theme song for Nippon TV’s Sunday drama “The Way of the Househusband,” it generated a huge response, surpassing 100 million streams.
It’s a track that gives you courage—perfect for moments when you’re ready to take a step toward mastering the path you believe in, or when you want to protect someone important to you.
To tell you the truth,yangusukinii
A song that perfectly captures the feeling of winter and has been drawing attention is by Young Skinny.
Released on October 5, 2022, it was selected as the ending theme for TBS’s TV program “Osama no Brunch” for the month of October.
It’s a love song that portrays the heartache of unrequited love and straightforward emotions, and its pure, direct lyrics deeply resonate with listeners.
Blending pop and rock, it especially captivates young audiences.
It’s a recommended track for those struggling with love or wanting to face the part of themselves that finds it hard to be honest.
Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)
A song characterized by poignant lyrics and a melancholy tone featuring the sanshin.
Sung by Kenta Kiritani under the name Urashima Taro from au’s popular Santaro commercial series.
Released as a digital single in December 2015, it won numerous awards, including the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards.
With sparse instrumentation and a slow tempo, it’s easy to sing; however, because many phrases descend from high notes, hitting the initial pitch accurately is crucial.
Evoking the beauty of nature and feelings for a loved one, this piece is recommended when you want to remember someone special or settle into a calm state of mind.
Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number
Back number’s eighth single has lyrics that vividly depict scenes you can’t help but relate to, paired with a poignant melody, earning overwhelming support from younger listeners.
Released in June 2013, it was later used in 2019 as the theme song for Kirin Beer’s Tanrei Green Label commercial.
The lyrics portray the struggle of feelings toward someone you admire, something many listeners are likely to feel is about themselves.
It’s an emotional number that carries unfulfilled feelings even as it wishes for happiness.
AlignIMP.
Released in December 2025 as a track on the second album “MAGenter,” this song is a mysterious love ballad dominated by strings.
The tension and shading created by the string instruments evoke images of the moon, stars, and night, beautifully portraying the way two people are drawn together in romance.
During recording, the direction was to “sing as you are,” resulting in a free and joyful atmosphere in the studio.
It’s a perfect fit for those who want to experience a mature love story.