[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 songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics (131–140)
Dear BrideNishino Kana
Released in 2016 as Kana Nishino’s 29th single.
Created for a friend who was getting married, it is her first wedding song, with lyrics expressing “words of blessing for the bride” that only a close friend can say.
It’s a heartwarming ballad filled with various emotions—memories with her friend and the heartfelt wish, “I want you to be happy!”
canaryGLAY
GLAY is a four-piece rock band that has set numerous milestones in Japan’s rock scene and continues to perform actively today.
Their song “Canaria,” included on their major-label third album BELOVED, is said to be a number for which bassist JIRO created the prototype in just five minutes.
The lyrics evoke feelings of nostalgia for changing environments and youthful days over time, likely prompting many listeners to reflect on their own lives with a wistful sentiment.
With its airy arrangement and catchy melody, it’s a hidden gem that feels wonderfully comfortable.
The End of SummerMoriyama Naotaro
“The End of Summer,” the third single by Naotaro Moriyama, released in 2003.
From the intro, his high, cleansing vocals shine, and the song carries a subtle sense of nostalgia.
Every line of the lyrics is imbued with beautiful language, evoking uniquely Japanese scenery and scenes.
It also brings forth that particular melancholy and wistfulness found at summer’s end, welling up from within.
It calls to mind those slightly cooler days when you can hear the insects begin to sing.
Tokyokujira
“Tokyo” portrays the mixed emotions of starting a new life—heart fluttering with excitement yet tinged with loneliness and anxiety.
Released in 2023 and featured on Kujira’s third album, Vegetable Drawer, the track unfolds a fresh, vivid soundscape around the themes of new challenges and farewells.
The protagonist in the lyrics confronts moments of emptiness and solitude amid hectic, time-pressed days, while harboring a complex desire to find a new self in the dazzling lights of Tokyo.
It’s a song that gently supports anyone facing a move or a new chapter.
Standing at your starting line, Kujira’s warm voice will surely send you a powerful cheer.
By your sideMirei Touyama
It’s a ballad that carefully expresses sincere gratitude and love for someone precious who’s always by your side.
It’s a song by Mirei Toyama, released in November 2016.
Chosen as a recommended track on TV Tokyo’s music program “Cho-Ryuha,” it was aired for about a month.
The gentle sound of piano and strings blends with Toyama’s warm vocals, creating a comforting feeling that seems to untie your heart just by listening.
The lyrics, which let go of bashfulness and evasiveness to convey feelings straightforwardly, are sure to move you.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to say a heartfelt “thank you” that you don’t usually express.
earnest desireSUPER BEAVER
You might just come across a song that wraps you in emotions that well up before you know it.
This track by the four-piece rock band SUPER BEAVER is included on their album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024.
It warmly sings about the importance of connections between people and the power of a smile.
Vocalist Ryota Shibuya’s powerful voice really resonates.
True to a band that has created many theme songs for anime and dramas, it’s a track that gently gives listeners a supportive push.
It’s recommended for those struggling with relationships or those who want to make someone happy.
It’s sure to warm your heart.
dilemmaspeena
It’s well known as a song that expresses Asuka’s feelings from the anime Evangelion.
It was also used as the ending theme for a drama, so many people have probably heard it.
Because you hate yourself, when you fall for someone who resembles you, feelings of love and hate end up being born, don’t they?