[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 (91–100)
Hello, Again ~A Place That Has Been There Since Long Ago~My Little Lover
One of the signature songs by My Little Lover, a group that debuted in 1995 and dominated the era at the time.
The guitar phrase in the intro is simple, yet it has a certain warmth that grips your heart just by listening.
As for the lyrics, they evoke a bittersweet farewell and a fresh start in a new environment.
Facing a parting with someone important when taking on a new challenge—surely some of you have experienced that situation.
In such moments, listening to this song can give you the positive push you need to take that first step forward.
Neighbors of the worldNogizaka 46
A song filled with cheers and gratitude for people staying home and for those working in hospitals due to the novel coronavirus.
Not only the members active at the time, but also former members who had graduated lent their voices.
Even if we can’t meet now, we’re always thinking of you, and we’re grateful to you who are working so hard—these straightforward lyrics are sure to resonate with anyone who has lived through this time.
Also noteworthy is the music video, compiled from self-shot clips that all the members filmed themselves on smartphones while staying home.
[Must-read] Songs with great lyrics: moving tracks you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics (101–110)
Tears Flowing EndlesslyMoriyama Ryoko
BEGIN composed the music, and Ms.
Moriyama wrote the lyrics.
Tears for You (Nada Sōsō) was first released by BEGIN in 2000.
In 2001, Ms.
Rimi Natsukawa covered it, and it became a big hit.
The song was inspired by Ms.
Moriyama’s feelings for her older brother.
He passed away suddenly when she was young.
Those feelings became the song.
Just listening to it loosens your tear ducts, and the tears start to flow.
We againSG
Sogyoung, a singer who’s gained popularity mainly on social media like YouTube and TikTok.
Known for his strong vocals and creative concepts, his go-to graduation song is “Bokura Mata” (“We, Again”).
On TikTok, it’s been used in countless videos themed around school life.
His gentle, conversational singing over a light, R&B-style beat leaves a lasting impression.
The lyrics, which bring to mind days spent with a beloved partner or friends at school, offer encouragement for tomorrow.
Even when you part ways with someone important, this song reminds you that the relationship doesn’t have to end.
Close your eyesHirai Ken
Released in 2004, this is one of Ken Hirai’s signature songs.
It was used as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World” and became a major hit along with the movie.
The song follows the film’s storyline, focusing on the relationship between the protagonist and his girlfriend.
Sung from the perspective of the protagonist, who mourns his girlfriend who died young from illness, it expresses his wish to cherish her forever, even as his memories of her begin to fade.
Go for it!Nakajima Miyuki
“Fight” is packed with cheers for everyone struggling to live in a reality full of hardships.
The song by widely loved singer-songwriter Miyuki Nakajima was included on her 1983 album “Yokan” (Premonition).
It portrays the daily grind where sad, unbearable things happen, and delivers a message that shakes the heart.
Precisely because we work hard and face challenges, we sometimes feel discouraged.
In such moments, this timeless classic resonates with its straightforward words that encourage those who keep trying.
First LoveFukuyama Masaharu
A song by Masaharu Fukuyama released in 2009.
Although it’s in a minor key and has a darker tone, it also feels gentle and beautiful.
Fukuyama’s signature sultry, resonant vocals match it perfectly.
At first glance, the title might make you think it’s a song about first love, but reading the lyrics reveals that it’s a metaphor.
It portrays a man and woman who used to be lovers; now they each have someone important in their lives, yet they realize the person they truly love is still each other.
It’s a track overflowing with the ache of unfulfilled longing.