RAG MusicFriendship Songs
A lovely friendship song

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!

An emotionally moving, heartwarming message! Heisei-era friendship songs (11–20)

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

This is the 17th single by Motohiro Hata, which became a massive hit as the theme song for a 3D CG animated film.

Its love-filled lyrics and melody, carried by his gentle vocals, won widespread support and made it an unusually long-running hit for an anime song.

The message of wanting to do something for someone else is something friends can naturally relate to.

It’s a heartwarming karaoke song that reminds you of the preciousness and happiness of being with someone important.

Released in 2014, the track held the No.

1 spot on Japan’s overall iTunes chart for an extended period.

far; distant; by farGRe4N BOYZ

Haruka by GRe4N BOYZ is a song that expresses the determination to set off toward one’s dreams and gratitude to those who offer support.

Released in May 2009, it was chosen as the theme song for the smash-hit film ROOKIES: Graduation.

This moving ballad conveys an overflowing sense of “thank you,” reflecting on the loneliness of leaving home and on a past when one couldn’t be honest.

Why not send it to dear friends who support each other’s dreams during the season of farewells, such as graduations or job transfers?

KizunaORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE “Kizuna” MV
KizunaORANGE RANGE

This song, with its nostalgic and warm melody, gently envelops the listener’s heart.

Released as a single by ORANGE RANGE in August 2005, it’s a ballad chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu” (“Be with You”).

Its message—that we’re connected under the same sky even when we’re apart—reminds us of enduring friendships.

It’s perfect for karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, for farewell seasons, and for moments of reminiscing.

A heartfelt track that lets you reaffirm the bonds with your precious companions.

OneRIP SLYME

A single released by RIP SLYME in October 2001, this track became a major springboard for them.

Each member affirms everyday life in their own words, and the way those thoughts build toward the chorus warmly envelops the listener.

It reached No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was later included on the classic album TOKYO CLASSIC.

Its comfortable beat and melodious hook make it perfect for hyping up a drive with friends or a karaoke session.

The Goofy Man’s WaySUPER EIGHT

Kanjani Eight – Zukkoke Otoko Michi ~ Tomo yo / THE FIRST TAKE
The Goofy Man’s WaySUPER EIGHT

It’s a rough-around-the-edges yet fiery fight song that unconditionally lifts your spirits just by listening.

SUPER EIGHT’s single “Zukkoke Otoko Michi,” released in April 2007 and also included on their album “KJ2 Zukkoke Daidassō,” is one of their signature tracks.

Set to a funk groove with positive lyrics, it teaches the importance of getting back up even after you fail.

Just listening makes your body move naturally and blows your worries away.

It’s perfect for getting pumped up at karaoke with friends!

PASSIONSun Set Swish

It’s a passionate cheer song that gives you the courage to face tomorrow.

Performed by SunSet Swish from Osaka, this single was released in March 2008 and was used as the ending theme for the late-night drama RH Plus.

The dry tone of the acoustic guitar in the intro intertwines with the majestic orchestral sound, creating a sonic landscape that stirs inner passion.

It also drew attention for featuring a cameo appearance by actor Yusuke Kamiji in the music video.

Heartwarming and emotional! Heisei-era friendship songs (21–30)

That dayWaT

This is a song that says, “Because of those days when we kept running toward our dreams, we are who we are now.” Performed by WaT, the duo of Eiji Wentz and Teppei Koike, the track was included as the B-side to their debut single “Boku no Kimochi,” released in November 2005.

The lyrics were written by both members, with composition by Koike, and it portrays, in a true-to-life way, the primal scenes of their street-performing days—train platforms and crowded streets.

Their determination to move forward despite their anxieties strongly conveys the bond they share with friends pursuing the same dream.