[Must read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

From among the many masterpieces Japan is proud of, we’ve carefully selected songs with outstanding lyrics to introduce to you.

We’ve gathered “once-heard-never-forgotten” message songs that speak straight to the heart, ranging from universally acclaimed classics to the latest hits.

If you’re looking to listen to music that will make you cry, move you, or lift your spirits—or songs that might even influence your life—these picks are perfect.

Please give them a listen.

I believe you’ll find songs that will stay by your side, encourage you, and become a source of emotional support when times are tough.

[Must Read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics (51–60)

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI “Highest Altitude” ONE PIECE Lyric MV

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI’s “Saikou Toutatsu-ten” (“Highest Achievement”) was released as a digital-only single on September 17, 2023, and was chosen as the opening theme for the Egghead arc of the anime ONE PIECE.

The song portrays a journey of overcoming past hardships to attain a new kind of strength.

Showcasing SEKAI NO OWARI’s remarkable expressiveness and creativity, it’s a work that makes clear it’s something special—not just for fans.

With a strong will to overcome adversity and reach the highest point, it’s recommended for everyone pursuing their dreams.

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To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Music Video (Short ver.)

To the futureKiroro

Released in 1998 as Kiroro’s second single.

It’s often sung at middle and high school choral competitions and is strongly associated with graduation songs.

The lyrics vividly express gratitude to one’s mother and inspire the feeling of “Let’s do our best toward the future.”

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balladKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

balladKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi is known for many upbeat, high-energy tunes, but this “Ballad” is a gentle, heartrending ballad just as the title suggests.

The theme of the song is an “unrequited love.” It’s a tender yet sorrowful track that feels like reaffirming your own feelings as you think of someone precious you can’t meet.

The music video is filmed like a drama, further heightening the sense of poignancy.

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Just a little moreYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Just a Little More” Official Music Video

Just a little moreYOASOBI

Amid the busyness of everyday life, YOASOBI’s “A Little Bit More” becomes a quietly supportive, powerful companion.

The piano’s expansive melody and Ikura’s clear, transparent vocals weave a beautiful harmony that deeply resonates with the listener’s heart.

The lyrics’ ability to reframe the ordinary in a positive light gently nudges you forward, offering a warm sense of optimism.

Even when anxiety or loneliness strikes, this song can give you the courage to take a step and soothe your heart.

Loosen your shoulders and let yourself be carried by its melody.

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Family SongHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Family Song (Official Video)

Family SongHoshino Gen

Many of you might strongly associate it with the drama “Overprotected Kahoko,” starring Mitsuki Takahata, since it was the theme song.

It’s Gen Hoshino’s “Family Song.” True to its title, it’s a “song about family” that fits the drama perfectly, but if you listen closely, it’s a deeply moving piece.

It’s a track filled with a big, heartfelt love that resonates not only with family, but with many different people and moments.

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