[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 (101–110)
Live beautifullytakane no nadeshiko
The major debut single by Takane no Nadeshiko, “Live Beautifully,” was released on February 21, 2024, and embodies their determination and hope.
This work expresses an attitude of living to the fullest toward one’s dreams without setting personal limits.
The message symbolized by Takane no Nadeshiko—“to live nobly and beautifully”—teaches us the importance of continuing to pursue our dreams and the strength to face adversity with a smile.
Their music is sure to energize your heart.
Outside the dreamHoshino Gen
When it comes to artists who truly represent Japan both in name and reality—as a singer and an actor—Gen Hoshino comes to mind.
As a singer, his repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from pop and up-tempo tracks to tender songs featuring only acoustic guitar, and even pieces full of humor.
“Yume no Soto e” is a pop song with a bright, memorable rhythm.
It’s a track that resonates with a passionate desire to always stay close to a loved one, in a world just for the two of you.
Snow BlossomNakajima Mika
Among her released songs, this one is especially popular and could be called her signature track.
As a winter love song, it has been cherished across generations for many years.
Its bittersweet yet beautiful lyrics captured the hearts of women.
Don’t you think its straightforward expressions of love are also part of its appeal? Her beautiful falsetto further sets the song apart as well.
Seventeen years after its release, it has found new popularity as a movie theme song.
Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu
A straightforward title that really hits you in the heart—this is one of Masaharu Fukuyama’s songs.
Marriage is the only family you can choose for yourself.
It’s a masterpiece that conveys the resolve of two people who have decided to walk through life together from here on out, along with the warm feelings of caring for each other.
Meeting someone you want to be with no matter what happens is nothing short of a miracle, isn’t it? Listening to this song might give you a chance to reflect on your own family anew.
CLOUDY HEARTBOØWY
BOØWY’s “CLOUDY HEART,” which sublimates the ache of heartbreak, is an immortal masterpiece that deeply moves many listeners.
The guitar’s melody, with its rise-and-fall phrasing, heightens the song’s overall emotion.
Kyosuke Himuro’s lyrics are imbued with his keen sensitivity and insight, possessing the power to awaken listeners’ own memories of heartbreak.
Played with a faintly wistful expression, the track is something that will accompany anyone who has experienced a broken heart.
This classic, which feels as if it speaks directly to your soul, has a melody and lyrics that linger in your mind long after you hear it.
[Must-Read] Songs with Great Lyrics: Moving Tracks to Listen to While Reading the Lyrics (111–120)
What age would you like to go back to?Sakurazaka46
Sakurazaka46’s 8th single “How Old Do You Want to Go Back To?” was released on February 21, 2024, and its message has resonated with many listeners.
The song is directed at young people struggling with the “now,” offering strength to look forward even as they reflect on the past.
It carries a message of courage and hope for those of us worn down by reality and prone at times to escape into the past.
The music video, with Ten Yamasaki as center, also became a hot topic.
crescent moonayaka
Ayaka’s “Mikazuki” is her fourth single, released in 2006.
Her deep, gently enveloping voice slips right into our hearts, doesn’t it? The song was used in an au commercial, earned her the Best New Artist award at the Japan Record Awards, and led to an appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
It reflects Ayaka’s feelings after moving to Tokyo and being separated from friends and loved ones, and her characteristic kindness shines through in the idea that even when apart, we’re connected by looking at the same moon.
It’s a great song to listen to when you’re feeling lonely.