Hidden gems of love songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Just a Kiss feat. AimyonSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda “Just a Kiss feat. Aimyon”

It’s a duet song that tightens your chest with its frustrating relationship, as if a single scene were lifted from a short film.

Written and composed by Aimyon and sung together with Masaki Suda, it portrays a man and woman who say that a kiss alone can keep them connected.

Even though they long for each other, the ache of hearts that don’t quite meet comes through vividly.

The track is included on Masaki Suda’s album “LOVE,” released in July 2019.

When your relationship feels a bit unsteady, or on nights when you want to sink into feelings that defy words, the harmony woven by their two voices will likely seep gently into your heart.

AsymmetrySuga Shikao

Suga Shikao / Asymmetry

This is one of Shikao Suga’s signature songs, depicting a couple whose relationship has become twisted and distorted.

Set to a funky sound, it expresses the frustration of not being able to read the other person’s true feelings, and the tenderness that deepens despite that.

Released in May 2002, the song drew major attention as the theme for the drama “Seikei Bijin” (Cosmetic Beauty) and was later included on the album “SMILE.” Many of us have likely experienced that bittersweet pain of drifting apart precisely because we care.

When you’re struggling with an unbalanced love, this song is sure to gently resonate in your heart.

clumsy personSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Heppoko Man” Music Video

Saucy Dog is a three-piece rock band that has gained popularity for its relatable, down-to-earth lyrics and soaring high-tone vocals.

The song “Heppoko Man,” which opens the EP Hashiyasume—a collection of bonus tracks—was originally included on their second mini-album, Salad Days.

The lyrics depict the helpless ache of still being in love even when you know the other person doesn’t see you, a sadness that feels all the more unavoidable because no one is really at fault.

It’s a sentimental ballad that also draws attention for featuring drummer Yui Saito on vocals.

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Hoshino Takashi

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I’m beat.sumika

I'm beat.

A bittersweet depiction of memories from a cold winter day, this is a hidden gem by sumika.

Kenta Kataoka’s deep, composed vocals gently permeate the heart.

Included on the July 2017 album “Familia,” the song honestly expresses the singer’s current feelings while looking back on a past romance.

Memories of “you” with a red nose and the warmth of held hands are scattered throughout the lyrics, evoking the wistful love that many have experienced.

It’s a perfect track for those troubled by love or those who want to reaffirm their feelings for someone precious.

Carried by a soothing melody, it will tenderly stir the emotions deep within your heart.

Only I am loveTomei

Tomei – Only I Love [Official Music Video]

Singer TOMEI, who drew attention for her vocals showcased in the animated film Suzume, released the ballad “Boku Dake ga Ai” on December 6, 2023.

It also made waves for featuring a co-arrangement by Yojiro Noda and mabanua.

The lyrics convey a powerful love that, at the same time, hints at a kind of madness.

With a simple, quiet ensemble centered on acoustic guitar that highlights her clear, translucent voice, it’s a love song that evokes various forms of love.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Love is blind.yangusukinii

Young Skinny – Love Is Blind [Official Music Video]

A song by Young Skinny that portrays the bittersweet feeling of lingering over a past love.

It expresses how much everyday life can change after a breakup through a concrete image: even the taste of fries seems different.

As the song progresses, the protagonist’s mindset shifts, too.

In the end, they’re shown facing forward with a smile, and listening to it can lift your spirits.

Released digitally in January 2024, it was also chosen as the opening theme for the TBS drama “Uri o Yaburu: Issen o Koeta, Sono Saki ni wa.” It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to overcome the pain of heartbreak or take a step forward with their head held high.

Ti AmoEXILE

EXILE / Ti Amo

A story of forbidden love that portrays a sweetly heartrending romance for adults.

The earnest vocals of EXILE beautifully capture the emotions of a woman consumed by her relationship with a married man.

The bittersweet love depicted alongside a passionate melody is sure to move many listeners.

Released in September 2008, the song was also featured in a commercial for Meiji Seika’s Meltykiss chocolate and won top honors at both the 50th Japan Record Awards and the 41st Japan Cable Awards.

The music video, set in 1920s Shanghai, superbly enhances the world of the piece.

It’s the perfect track for a late-night moment in a lounge, watching the gentle flicker of candlelight and indulging thoughts of grown-up romance.