Ballad Masterpiece Selection Performed by Japanese Girls' Bands

Little by littleSARD UNDERGROUND

SARD UNDERGROUND “Little by little, little by little” MV YouTube Size

This medium-tempo ballad by SARD UNDERGROUND breathes new life into previously unreleased words left by Izumi Sakai of ZARD.

The song carefully portrays the delicate process of how our relationships with loved ones—and our own hearts—slowly change.

Many listeners will likely see themselves in the earnest protagonist, who refuses to rush yet steadily strives to move forward.

Vocalist Yua Jinno’s clear, pure voice gently wraps around that single-minded sincerity.

Released in February 2020, the track served as an ending theme for the anime Detective Conan and has been cherished by many fans.

On nights when your heart feels unsteady, listening to it may leave you with a warm feeling, as if someone is softly giving you a push from behind.

sly personTETORA

TETORA - Cunning Person (Official Music Video)

This is a song by TETORA that vividly portrays the emptiness of being suddenly dumped by someone you loved—a deeply unfair situation.

The unadorned three-piece sound paired with vocals that feel like sobbing turns those aimless emotions straight into sound, leaving a strong impression.

In just about two minutes, the very moment a romance ends is condensed.

The track was included on the single “East Hills,” released in April 2019, and later featured on the acclaimed album “From a Corner of the Classroom,” which won the Tower Records Recommen Award 2019.

If you’re carrying the pain of an unforgettable love, this song will speak for your feelings.

On a quiet night when you want to linger in your own melancholy, why not give it a listen?

alivethe peggies

alive

A soul-stirring ballad by the peggies that questions the meaning of living while holding two opposing feelings—loving yourself yet hating yourself.

Written by vocalist Yuho Kitazawa at age 19 as if passing a baton to her wavering, nearly confidence-losing self, the painfully honest lyrics pierce the heart.

The song was included on NEW KINGDOM, a masterpiece from their indie era released in November 2015, and was re-recorded in 2020 as an acoustic version on the Anemone EP.

When you’re lost in life or can’t believe in yourself, the gentle guitar tones and warm vocals will seep into your heart like encouragement from a close friend.

It’s the perfect track for a night when you want to spend time quietly facing yourself.

About Fuwarinegoto

About Fuwari – Negoto

A signature ballad by Negoto, where gentle piano tones softly envelop the heart.

Woven by Sachiko Aoyama’s crystal-clear vocals is a delicate, somewhat fleeting tale between “me” and “you.” The nearly six-minute, dreamlike soundscape gently leads listeners into a world of dreams, evoking both poignancy and warmth at the same time.

Included on the early masterpiece-filled 2011 album “ex Negoto,” this track even topped a fan poll.

It was also chosen for the image album of the film “Blue Spring Ride,” enriching the work’s atmosphere.

On a night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, thinking of someone dear, listening to this song may remind you of the warmth you’d almost forgotten.

Shige-chanSabasusutā

Shige-chan

This is a gem of a ballad by Sabasister, whose quietly plucked guitar tones and wistful melody strike straight to the heart.

The song is a very personal and warm piece, born from drummer Gouke’s love for the one and only stuffed animal she has kept by her side for over 20 years.

Natchi’s emotionally rich vocals convey heartfelt gratitude to a presence that knows everything—our painful nights and our helpless moments alike.

Featured on the acclaimed March 2024 release “Kakugo wo Kimero!” (“Make Up Your Mind!”), this track reveals a new side of the band.

It gently teaches us the preciousness of being someone’s “special.” Why not listen closely when you want to calm your mind alone, or on a night when you’re thinking about your own treasured keepsakes?

to shake; to sway; to waverHump Back

Hump Back – Yureru Music Video

This song, performed in the traditional style of a three-piece rock band, features a fleeting, beautiful melody that flows like neon lights through a nighttime city as seen from a car window.

The distorted guitar sound, resonating with the singer’s breath, leaves a strong impression.

As the title suggests, its airy, floating atmosphere is part of its charm.

I want to become the wind.Nakanomori BAND

Nakanomori BAND – I Want to Become the Wind [PV]

Its folksy sound that evokes the Showa era and the lyrics politely asking someone to “please do ~” create a nostalgic feel.

Although it’s a song from the 2000s, it’s a classic that would likely set a tender, sentimental mood when sung at a snack bar or karaoke with your boss.