[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 songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics (201–210)

The Day of DepartureJULEPS

The Day of Departure Full Chorus.mpg

The Day of DepartureJULEPS

Tabidatsu Hi (The Day of Departure) is the debut single released in 2007 by the piano-and-chorus group JULEPS.

It was also used as the theme song for the anime The Elephant’s Back: The Day of Departure and has been gaining popularity on TikTok alongside its animation.

The lyrics honestly capture the feelings when one is told of the inevitable end of life, and the phrases imbued with kindness toward the family left behind are especially memorable.

Their vocals, delivering warm harmonies over a beautiful piano melody, are soothing as well.

Please lend an ear to this gently resonant message—poignant yet heartwarming—that will surely touch your heart.

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echoyama

yama “Kodama” Music Video

echoyama

This piece carries the message that your own voice has the power to change society.

It’s a song that yama created by listening to and empathizing with the voices of young people.

Released in February 2024, it was unveiled as part of NTT DOCOMO’s “Graduation Hope Ceremony” project.

It features yama’s signature delicate vocals and moving lyrics.

The song carefully portrays everyday struggles and emotional fluctuations, making it perfect for moments when you want to reflect on yourself.

I recommend listening to it alone on a quiet night.

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Try EverythingDream Ami

Dream Ami / Try Everything (Dream Ami version)

Try EverythingDream Ami

Disney’s Zootopia portrays the single-minded effort of striving toward one’s dreams.

Its theme song is Try Everything.

The original version is sung by Shakira, while the Japanese version is performed by Dream Ami.

The lyrics convey the importance of not giving up and of having courage.

Their warm message will soothe you and give you the energy to keep going.

You can also enjoy comparing it with the original version.

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I miss youHayashibe Satoshi

Satoshi Hayashibe / “I Want to See You (Music Video) ~New Version~”

I miss youHayashibe Satoshi

Tomofumi Hayashibe, who made his debut thanks to an audition show, released his first single “Aitai.” It’s a ballad that expresses feelings for a precious person one can no longer meet.

Since the specific situation isn’t clearly stated, it’s a song that’s easy to relate to your own experiences.

Also pay attention to his conversational singing style and high-tone voice.

The sound itself is soothing.

And if you like it, there are multiple versions available, so try comparing them.

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In conclusion

We introduced some classic Japanese songs with great lyrics.

Even with songs you usually listen to without thinking, when you revisit them while reading the lyrics, you sometimes realize just how profound they really are.

They can encourage you, gently sit with your weaker side, and move you to tears.

Let’s keep listening to many songs with wonderful lyrics that can be a source of solace in life.

I’d be happy if this article helped you find a song that supports you.