[Ballads] Hidden gems of Japanese music. Songs that really hit you.

umbrellaMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – umbrella【LIVE from “Atlantis”】

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

iScream “Verbal Promise” (Music Video)

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.

Bye-byeKAN

Bye Bye Bye (studio recording)

The best ballad included on the 15th album, “If You’d Like, Together.” Many artists use parting as a motif, but KAN’s interpretation—“Bye-bye isn’t a word that means a farewell forever”—somehow brings comfort.

It’s a good song to listen to when you’re feeling a bit lonely, like after a breakup or when you’re homesick.

Actually, this song “Bye Bye Bye” has both a studio recording version and a live version.

Try listening to both and enjoy the big and subtle differences.

The holeKing Gnu

King Gnu – The hole

“The hole,” included on King Gnu’s album Sympa released in January 2019, is a ballad that reflects wistfulness and deep emotion, resonating with the listener’s heart.

While King Gnu is widely known for masterpieces like “Hakujitsu” and “Teenager Forever,” “The hole” in particular features introspective lyrics and a melody that is gentle yet powerful, encouraging contemplation in its listeners.

The music video’s portrayal of tangled emotions between a man and a woman is striking, likely to evoke bittersweet memories of love.

The warmth and embrace that can be felt throughout the song showcase King Gnu’s appeal to the fullest.

It’s the perfect companion for unhurried moments, sure to help fill the hole in your heart.

summer vacationwacci

wacci 'Summer Vacation MV (Short Version) + TV Spot'

Wacci’s “Natsuyasumi” (Summer Vacation) is a classic that paints the scenes of summer festivals, a hallmark of the season.

It’s their 2013 debut single—a pre-breakthrough ballad you absolutely should hear.

The childlike, nostalgic lyrics gently resonate with listeners, and the song’s fresh, summery emotion evokes the scents of summer and the bustle of festivals, carrying you back in time.

Carried by Ono’s bass and Yokoyama’s gentle drum rhythms, Hashiguchi’s vocals beautifully convey the feelings of summer days.

It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to forget the daily clamor and revisit a page of your youth.

Let the flowers in your heart bloom.ikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari Everyone, Hello Tour!! THE LIVE 2021!!! Documentary Teaser (-Let the Flowers of the Heart Bloom-)

Let’s Make the Flowers of Your Heart Bloom,” included on Ikimonogakari’s album “My song Your song.” Loved for many years since its 2008 release, this track feels like a message that transcends time.

With the depth of lyrics crafted by Hotaka Yamashita and Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, pure vocals, it gently stays close to the listener’s heart.

In moments when you feel like giving up or during days of struggle, this song gives you courage and the strength to keep your own flower from withering.

Even in hard times, it will surely be there beside your heart.

Years after its release, it remains fresh—its straightforward words sink in—an emotionally stirring ballad.

I’m beat.sumika

I'm beat.

Sumika’s “Maitta,” included on their 2017 album Familia, is a song that conveys deep emotion and bittersweetness.

Its lyrics weave memories of past love into the present, and Kenta Kataoka’s low, resonant voice leaves a strong impression.

The track evokes scenes of a nostalgic winter day and gently stays close to the listener’s heart.

With its calming melody and finely detailed lyrical expressions, the song has moved many.

It’s a piece I highly recommend when you want to listen to a ballad and take a quiet look inward.