An emotionally stirring, heartwarming message! A Heisei-era friendship song
Friendship songs that portray the bonds between friends can make your heart swell just by listening, can’t they?
From powerful messages to sentimental scenes, many people may find themselves reminiscing about their youth.
And for those who are right in the middle of their youth now, there might be songs that resonate because they reflect your own experiences.
This time, we’re introducing friendship songs that colored the Heisei era.
Try listening to them with your friends or singing them at karaoke, and take the chance to reaffirm your friendships!
- [A moving friendship song] For dear friends and best friends. Songs of friendship that make you feel the bond.
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An emotionally stirring message that warms the heart! Heisei-era friendship songs (1–10)
Feeling refreshedMoritaka Chisato
A singer-songwriter who, while enjoying idol-like popularity and image, shows her multi-instrumental prowess by playing numerous instruments live: this is Chisato Moritaka’s 22nd single.
Used in a commercial for Asahi “Z,” the song drew attention as Moritaka herself also appeared in the ad.
Although it gives a bright and refreshing impression on the surface, the lyrics, which in reality depict a woman’s bittersweet emotions, strike a chord.
Released in January 1994, the track centers on the theme of heartbreak and likely resonated with many listeners.
While valuing her friendship with a close friend, the protagonist strives to overcome the pain of her own broken heart—something that surely causes many to recall the poignant feelings of their youth.
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
This is one of Noriyuki Makihara’s signature songs, depicting the feelings of a protagonist who leaves their hometown to chase dreams in the city.
Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” released in June 1992, the track resonated with many listeners thanks to its simple yet heartfelt lyrics.
Interweaving anxiety and anticipation about changing surroundings with lingering thoughts of home, it beautifully captures the universally felt emotions of setting out on a new journey.
In 2006, it was also featured in an NTT East Japan commercial, bringing it renewed attention.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you need courage to step into a new environment, or when you want to think back on your hometown or someone dear to you.
Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi
This work is striking for its lyrical melody and overlapping vocals.
The collaboration between Kenshi Yonezu and Masaki Suda drew a lot of attention.
Released in October 2017 as an advance track from the album “BOOTLEG,” it captured the hearts of many listeners.
Since both vocal parts sit in a low key with little melodic fluctuation, it’s easy to sing at karaoke.
Splitting the parts with a friend makes it even more fun.
The lyrics, which depict memories of school days and youth, carry a universal message that anyone can relate to.
It’s a heartwarming number that conveys feelings of treasuring friendship, growth, and something unchanging.
An emotionally moving, heartwarming message! Heisei-era friendship songs (11–20)
Dear My FriendEvery Little Thing
It’s a memorable number that portrays the bonds of friendship.
Released in January 1997, this song sings of the memories of youth spent together and a friendship one hopes will remain unchanged even as the days go by.
It evokes scenes anyone can relate to, such as a longing for a place where each other’s presence brings comfort.
The song captured many hearts, winning the Excellent Work Award at the 39th Japan Record Awards.
It’s the perfect number for times when you want to reaffirm your ties with friends or look back on your youthful days.
RPGSEKAI NO OWARI
This is the fourth major-label single by SEKAI NO OWARI, a band that captivates listeners with its unique worldview.
Selected as the theme song for the animated film Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-class Gourmet Survival!!, the track features a march-like rhythm that evocatively recalls an RPG, just as its title suggests.
The lyrics, which hint at the start of an adventure, resonate with those embarking on a new chapter in life.
Because the song uses instruments like a bass drum and hand cymbals, performing it at a school graduation live show might help recreate the original atmosphere.
Released in May 2013, the song is a refreshing piece themed around friendship, hope, and taking on challenges.
together; along with; bothWANIMA
A WANIMA track that has gained popularity for its exhilarating melodic hardcore sound and powerful message.
It’s included on their second single, “JUICE UP!!,” and was also chosen as the theme song for the Kumamoto Earthquake recovery support project “Tomoni Susumu Kumamoto.” In December 2017, they made their first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and the song has been cherished as one that resonates with many people.
It’s the perfect track for reaffirming bonds with friends or when you need a boost of encouragement.
secret base 〜What You Gave Me〜ZONE
This is the third single by the rock band ZONE, who made their major debut with the catchy slogan “Bandle,” a fusion of band and idol, and are now revered as legends by many girls’ bands.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Kids War 3: “Don’t Mess With Me,” it marked a turning point for the group: although ZONE had previously used instruments only as props, this was the first time they performed live.
Its bittersweet story that depicts the childhood memories everyone holds dear resonates along with its catchy melody.
An emotional work themed around the end of summer and friendship, it was released in August 2001 and became a huge hit, with cumulative shipments surpassing one million copies.