[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 (21–30)

NonfictionHirai Ken

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

NonfictionHirai Ken

A heartfelt message song born from the experience of losing a close friend.

Ken Hirai’s powerful vocals portray the longing for a lost life and the wish to meet again, with a voice that stirs the soul.

Since its release in June 2017, this medium-tempo ballad has resonated with many.

Created as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Little Giant,” its delicate, acoustic guitar–based arrangement harmonizes beautifully with the drama’s worldview.

The lyrics probe deeply into the meaning of life and gently embrace life’s struggles and setbacks, woven with warm words that stay close to the heart.

This work will light a quiet beacon in the hearts of those standing at life’s crossroads or holding feelings for someone dear.

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Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Eine Kleine

Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi

A song by Kenshi Yonezu released in 2014.

The delicately and carefully crafted lyrics turn everything—such as the joy of having met someone so precious that it feels like a miracle just to hear them say your name, and the frustration of not being able to express your feelings well—into a positive force.

Known for his captivating lyrics, his songs sing about the universal human world that everyone has felt at least once.

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Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

A SHISHAMO track that struck a chord with people doing their best every day, also featured in a popular NTT Docomo commercial.

It’s included on the album “SHISHAMO 4.” It captures that feeling of working hard day after day, going to school, yet nothing going right and being overwhelmed by a vague sense of unease.

Still, by holding close the hero you envision for yourself and hoping to become that someday, it expresses the resolve to keep trying again tomorrow.

Whether you’re an adult or a child, the bright, poppy melody lifts you up against the everyday anxieties and the days when things just don’t go well.

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belovedRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai / Sweetheart

belovedRyokushokushakai

A song released by Ryokuoushoku Shakai in August 2019.

It was their first attempt at a film theme song, depicting deep gratitude and love for a cherished person.

Haruko Nagaya’s clear, transparent vocals gently embrace the lyrics, which are imbued with feelings for her mother.

The expressions that evoke the comfort of being protected, along with the awareness of the scars and hardships behind it, truly resonate.

The music video is also distinctive, portraying a “world where time has stopped” that reflects the film’s motifs.

The still poses of the band members leave a strong impression.

This is a recommended track for anyone who wants to connect with the joy of being loved and the feelings you have for someone important.

It will surely stay close to your heart.

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KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

KanadeSukima Suichi

Though they love each other deeply, they can’t be together.

It’s a painful song, yet the lyrics overflow with love for the other person, moving everyone who hears it.

The heartfelt, warm words convey a poignant longing.

Their signature song “Kanade” is still one that many people find themselves humming, isn’t it? The sound in the chorus links with the lyrics, wrapping you in a great love and sending a shiver through your heart.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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