[Must read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics
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.
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[Must Read] Songs with Great Lyrics: Moving Tracks You’ll Want to Listen to While Reading the Lyrics (71–80)
Just… I miss youEXILE
Among EXILE’s early love songs, “Tada… Aitakute” is especially popular.
Its gentle accompaniment, centered on piano and strings, further enhances the beauty of the lyrics.
Many men can likely relate to the words, which poignantly depict a lost love, one’s own helplessness, and lingering regrets.
Some may even have shed tears listening to this song after a breakup.
It’s a supreme love ballad that truly embodies EXILE at their best.
Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number
When it comes to love songs, you simply can’t leave out back number.
Their song “Takane no Hanako-san” is the band’s eighth single, released in 2013.
It’s an unrequited love song, but it’s filled with an adorably earnest male perspective that makes you want to root for him.
The lyrics feel very real—rather than being purely heartbreaking, the daydreams and “we’ve all been there” moments of a crush are a little chuckle-worthy yet still resonate deeply.
IHoshino Gen
A folk song of exceptionally high purity in both arrangement and lyrics by Gen Hoshino, an artist who, after the 2010s, gained cross-generational support and broke beyond the bounds of pop musicianship.
The latter half of the 2010s could be described as an era of division, and this song’s appeal lies in lyrics that gently nudge you forward—not with harsh expressions, but with unadorned, kind words—against an aggressive, unforgiving, and difficult world.
It lets you fully savor the unique turns of phrase only he can deliver, and when you’re worn out, you might find comfort in its warm words that offer modest courage and hope.
If you call it loveUru
No matter what difficulties lie ahead, “Sore wo Ai to Yobu Nara” portrays the bonds of people supporting one another.
Uru, who drew attention through numerous cover songs and original releases, put it out in 2022.
Even when you drift apart from someone important or things don’t go well, it carries a heartwarming message of wanting to stay together.
Her clear, enveloping vocals bring out a range of emotions from the narrative lyrics.
It’s a ballad whose words to a lifelong family member or partner strike straight to the heart.
Be sure to listen to this song, which is often used in TikTok videos depicting moving, emotional moments.
Let me give you a songTakeuchi Mariya
Mariya Takeuchi is known for her warm, comforting voice that speaks to people’s hearts.
This song was released in August 2024 as the theme for the drama “Subarashikiyakana, Sensei!” It carries a message of healing and encouragement through the power of music, gently accompanying the loneliness and anxieties of everyday life.
A medium-tempo ballad, it will soothe your heart as you’re wrapped in Takeuchi’s tender vocals.
Her harmony with Erika Ikuta is also beautiful and deeply resonant.
When you’re struggling or feeling lost, it gives you a gentle push forward.
It’s sure to become a cherished song that stays close to your life.
day by dayYoshida Yamada
This is “Hibi” by Yoshida Yamada, a song told like a story centered on the grandparents’ life in the present.
It’s well known as a tear-jerker, a moving piece.
It portrays a slightly quirky, stubborn grandfather and the grandmother who stays by his side.
Packed with tenderness, it’s a song that makes you want to go see your grandpa and grandma right away.
MPRINCESS PRINCESS
A signature love song by PuriPuri released in 1992! It’s said to be based on one of the band member’s own romance, written to comfort her after a breakup.
The piano intro draws you right in.
While thinking of the initials of the person she loved still left in her address book, she sings about the end of a romance.
It’s a timeless classic that gently stays by the side of anyone nursing a broken heart.
