[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 Tracks You’ll Want to Listen to While Reading the Lyrics (71–80)

Let me give you a songTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Let Me Give You a Song (Official Music Video)

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.

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Joined handsMINAMI

[MV] MINAMI – The Hands We Held

Joined handsMINAMI

This is a slow ballad we hope you’ll listen to when you need the courage to move forward.

It’s the memorable first track marking MINAMI’s major-label debut in July 2023.

The theme—taking a new step while supporting and being supported by someone—delicately conveyed through a gentle voice, resonates deeply.

Interweaving everyday scenes like the after-school chime and a rainbow, its narrative style—believing in the hope beyond tears—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a work that gently stays by your side on days when something painful has happened.

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If you call it loveUru

[Official] Uru “If You Call That Love” — Theme song for the TBS Sunday Theater drama “My Family”

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.

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Excessive WealthShiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena – Excessive Wealth

Excessive WealthShiina Ringo

Although it’s not a poppy, upbeat melody and probably not for everyone, there are surprisingly many people who say they love this song.

There seem to be as many interpretations of the lyrics as there are listeners, and that’s another reason it’s cherished.

One possible reading is that true happiness or wealth is something you define for yourself—that the ability to make your own choices might itself be a kind of riches.

What do you think?

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Taki no namida pin ku

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MPRINCESS PRINCESS

M – PRINCESS PRINCESS (Princess Princess) (Full)

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.

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