[Resonates with the Heart] Masterpiece Ballads with Beautiful, Poignant Lyrics
There are so many moving ballads out there, aren’t there?
Among them, we’re going to spotlight ballads with a focus on “great lyrics.”
Of course, there are many ways lyrics can be good—what kind do you like?
From songs with rich storytelling, to love songs that sing of profound affection, to gentle pieces that move you to tears, we’ll dig into the charms of ballad lyrics across many styles.
Ballads, where the power of music can be felt even more strongly, stay close to our hearts.
Be sure to find ballads with lyrics that match your own tastes!
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Heart-Touching: Timeless Ballad Masterpieces with Beautiful Lyrics (1–10)
horizonback number
Back number is a rock band that delivers heartrending yet heartwarming songs themed around life and love.
Among their tracks, “Suiheisen” (Horizon), released in 2021, is filled with a warm message.
Even when days don’t go as planned, this song cheers on those who keep trying.
It teaches us that both the things that went well and those that didn’t on the way to our dreams and goals can lead to courage and hope.
Accompanied by the straightforward sound unique to a three-piece band, it’s a ballad that resonates with the emotional vocals of Iyori Shimizu.
rainbowSuda Masaki
When it comes to songs that depict heartwarming relationships with family and partners, “Niji” comes to mind.
Released in 2020 by singer and actor Masaki Suda, it was chosen as the theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.
Its warm message to those special people who are always by our side is deeply moving.
The song portrays the bond of partners who support each other and live together no matter what.
His emotional vocals convey his straightforward feelings and are sure to resonate with your heart.
Take a moment to listen to the simple yet striking phrases.
Good night, God.Kamiyama Yagi
A song with an addictive, mysterious atmosphere that portrays a sadness like having lost everything and a clumsy self-awareness.
As it gradually takes on a rock flavor partway through, Kamiyama Yoh’s gentle, conversational singing soothes you.
Notably, this ballad was released back in October 2019 and closes the album “Yumemiru Kodomo,” which carries a complementary concept.
Close your eyes while listening, and you might find time to face your inner self.
Moving the heart: Ballad masterpieces with great lyrics (11–20)
to UBank Band
It’s a ballad that makes you want to think more seriously about the meaning of “love.” Created by Bank Band—a group formed by music luminaries such as Kazutoshi Sakurai and Takeshi Kobayashi—it was released as a single in 2006.
The moving melody is one of its charms, but it’s the message in the lyrics that truly strikes the heart.
These are words that could only have emerged from a sincere engagement with how people live—just reading them can bring tears to your eyes.
I hope you’ll take your time and listen, savoring every moment.
for a very, very long timeFANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE
Here is a pure-love ballad that warms the winter chill and seeps deep into the heart.
The lyrics, which capture the growing feelings of love through everyday, fleeting moments and the frustration of being unable to say “I love you,” tighten the listener’s chest.
Released as a single in December 2025, this song was chosen as the theme for the film “Romantic Killer,” starring member Sota Nakajima.
The delicate timbres of piano and strings intertwine with twin vocals, unfolding dramatically toward the chorus—another point of allure.
If you’re stuck in a one-sided crush and can’t quite take that first step, listening to it might gently nudge you forward.
Why not savor it slowly while thinking of someone special?
belovedRyokushokushakai
When it comes to a heartwarming ballad filled with the will to protect a loved one, “Omoibito” comes to mind.
Released in 2019 by the band Ryokuoushoku Shakai, known for delivering songs that give people courage and hope, it’s a grand piece resonating with beautiful string arrangements.
The song portrays the realization that we are who we are thanks to someone’s support, and the desire to protect someone else in the same way.
With Haruko Nagaya’s passionate vocals and the band’s dynamic sound, it’s a ballad that truly strikes the heart.
Let the message, depicting both inner strength and kindness, reach you.
If you call it loveUru
“If You Call That Love” portrays the process of mending a relationship that once fell apart and tying the bond anew.
Performed by Uru, whose clear, translucent voice captivates many, it was released as a single in June 2022.
Written specifically as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “My Family,” the track features arrangement by Takeshi Kobayashi.
Acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and mistakes, yet resolving to protect the person who matters most—the song resonates alongside warm piano and strings.
Listeners will feel a gentle yet empowering push on their backs.
It’s a heartwarming ballad that stays close when you want to reaffirm your love for family or a partner.