[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 (81–90)
Philadelphia fleabaneYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s song “Halzion” is inspired by the novel “Soredemo, Happy End,” depicting the comeback of a protagonist who struggles with the gap between ideals and reality after graduating from art school.
Released in May 2020 and featured across various media, the track is a moving number that looks back on lost dreams and past love while singing of the strength to face forward and a spirit that won’t give up.
Its melody and lyrics evoke springtime scenes of the past, overlapping with hope for the arrival of a new season.
It’s perfect for elementary school children to enjoy on buoyant spring days and will surely give them the courage to take a new step forward.
366 daysHY
Among HY’s songs, “366 Days” is a masterpiece among masterpieces.
From the very beginning, the melancholy piano melody loosens your tear ducts.
In love, feeling that you’d sacrifice yourself and still be okay with it is something that may happen only once in a lifetime, if at all.
This song candidly sings about the emotions you discover for the first time when you love someone that deeply.
When we’re hurt or sad, we tend to close off our hearts, but listening to this track helps you acknowledge your true feelings.
It makes you face a range of emotions, yet it reminds you how wonderful it is to love someone.
blue skyZa Burū Hātsu
The Blue Hearts are a punk band loved by all generations.
Their unadulterated, pure message has earned the respect of many listeners over the years.
When it comes to their classic songs, many people probably picture Aozora (Blue Sky).
Although it tackles themes like racial discrimination and war, what’s striking is the lyrics’ stance: rather than rejecting those things head-on, they appeal from a perspective that says, “How utterly futile it all is.”
Sorrow Rides the Busmakaroni enpitsu
Known by the abbreviation “Maka-en,” Macaroni Enpitsu is a four-piece rock band that has won popularity with lyrics that paint vivid scenes and dramatic song developments.
Their track “Kanashimi wa Bus ni Notte,” included on their major second album Otona no Namida released on August 30, 2023, hooks listeners with its rapidly shifting arrangements and beats.
The lyrics, which make you feel the happiness of this very moment amid an ever-changing environment, are likely to resonate even with those who struggle to find hope in life.
It’s a striking pop tune that reminds us of the importance of ordinary moments over a long life.
SOULSOUPOfisharu Higedan Dism
Released on December 13, 2023, the song “SOULSOUP” was produced as the theme song for the film SPY×FAMILY CODE: White.
The work features an energetic sound that fuses soul, funk, and rock.
Its lyrics portray determination and hope in overcoming life’s hardships, carrying a message of personal growth and renewal.
It’s especially recommended for those facing challenging situations or about to take a new step forward.
Its powerful message is sure to inspire courage and hope.
It’s nothing.makaroni enpitsu
“I love you.” It’s not wrong, but sometimes when you put it into words, it just doesn’t feel right, does it? This is a love song packed with those inexpressible messages of love.
It’s a track by the rock band Macaroni Empitsu, released as their 10th single in 2021.
Starting with a laid-back piano sound, it unfolds into a blend of floaty atmosphere and grandeur, giving the piece a unique vibe.
And the lyrics—conveying the protagonist’s frustration of “Saying it out loud feels off, but I want to express it somehow”—are deeply relatable.
[Must Read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving tracks you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics (91–100)
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
Hanamizuki, one of Yo Hitoto’s signature songs, is said to have been written in response to the September 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States.
At first glance, the lyrics seem to focus on romance, but if you delve deeper, you may rediscover the song’s allure from a different perspective.
The hanamizuki (dogwood) flower is said to symbolize “permanence,” “reciprocation,” and “please accept my feelings.”