![[Ballads] Hidden gems of Japanese music. Songs that really hit you.](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/lRIUI8YSkEE/maxresdefault.webp)
[Ballads] Hidden gems of Japanese music. Songs that really hit you.
Even with countless new songs being released, plenty of ballads are born.
What kind of ballads do you like? When it comes to ballads, we often think of massive hits that anyone can sing, but sometimes you want to discover those hidden gems that only a few people know.
In this article, we’ve selected ballad songs that have been talked about as underrated masterpieces—along with tracks by popular artists in recent years—that feature lyrics that really hit home.
Enjoy exploring the many charms of different ballads!
[Ballad] Hidden gems in Japanese music: Moving songs (1–10)
MOONHimuro Kyosuke
It’s included on the 1991 album “Higher Self.” Born in 1950, a singer-songwriter from Gunma Prefecture.
With a melancholy melody like walking under the moonlight and piano tones that could make you cry in the background, Himuro’s emotional singing pierces deep into your heart and won’t let go.
belovedRyokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s “Omoibito” is marked by a gentle piano intro.
Released in 2019 as the theme song for the film “Love’s Lost Time,” it’s a masterpiece that delicately captures their emotions.
Every word woven into the lyrics carries deep affection, and its soothing warmth strikes a chord with listeners.
Continuing to move many hearts through live performances as well, this song will surely keep spreading as one of Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s signature ballads.
Haruko Nagaya’s soaring, radiant vocals blend with Issei Kobayashi’s delicate yet powerful guitar work, wrapping listeners in kindness.
A song of gratitude to someone you love, it may prompt you to reaffirm your feelings for the person who matters most to you.
Still love her (Lost Scenery)TM NETWORK
It’s included on the 1988 album “CAROL ~A DAY IN A GIRL’S LIFE 1991~.” It was used as the ending theme for the anime City Hunter 2.
The group is a three-member music unit from Tokyo formed in 1983.
The melody flows by like passing scenery; it’s a beautiful song that, while you listen, somehow leaves you with a sense of loss.
Forget-me-notOzaki Yutaka
It’s included on the 1985 album “From the Broken Door.” Born in 1965, a singer-songwriter from Tokyo.
The melody that fades in with the intro and quietly leads into the chorus eventually bursts into flame at the hook.
The lyrics, which sing of love with her, are filled with words quintessentially Ozaki, and they sink deep into the heart.
equalOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism is a beloved national band known for their refreshing, emotionally resonant songs.
Their track “Equal,” included on the 2017 mini-album “Report,” captivates listeners and won’t let go.
While delving deeply into people’s values and ways of life, it conveys the message that everyone is equally important.
Satoshi Fujihara’s soul-stirring vocals and delicate piano melodies work like magic on the listener’s emotions.
The choral work in this piece carries a wish for happiness and celebrates the value of equality.
Overflowing with warmth, this song seems to bring calm to our restless daily lives, and as a pre-major-debut work, I consider it a hidden gem.
I recommend listening to it on a long, quiet night in a peaceful room when you’re seeking comfort.
umbrellaMrs. GREEN APPLE
A hidden gem that reveals a new charm of ballads—that’s Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s “umbrella.” Though it’s the B-side to their second single “Samama Festival!” released in 2016, its profound lyrics resonate with many listeners and stir the heart.
The gentle yet powerful soundscape woven by Motoki Omori, Hiroto Wakai, and Ryoka Fujisawa lingers in the ears.
It’s a song that seems to symbolize the power of music to connect people across any era, and the dome concert footage released in January 2024 is still fresh in our memories.
Like turning a rain of misfortune into an umbrella, its tones soothe wounded hearts.
It’s a moving ballad that truly strikes a chord.
verbal promiseiScream
With its unforgettable melody and heartfelt lyrics, iScream’s “Kuchiyakusoku” grips listeners’ emotions.
As the lead track on their second album “Selfie,” released January 17, 2024, it speaks for women’s delicate sensitivity while portraying a sincere, slightly bittersweet love in a ballad.
The acoustic production stands out, shaping the song into a narrative-driven piece.
Among the 14 tracks on the album, it’s especially moving, and the music video—featuring a performance by RUI—also deserves attention.
Be sure to take your time and savor iScream’s warm, emotive ballad.