A hidden gem known only to those in the know. A great J-pop/Japanese song.

On nights when I’m too lonely to sleepAimer

Aimer 'On Nights When I’m Too Lonely to Sleep'

A breakup ballad by Aimer, an artist beloved by people of all genders for her unforgettable, emotionally resonant vocals and heartrending love songs.

It’s a hidden gem that portrays a single-minded love so deep that just thinking of someone precious keeps you up at night.

rainbowAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “Niji” Music Video (Theme song for the drama Gokusen Season 3)

A hidden gem by Aqua Timez, an artist popular among younger generations for love songs sung with a warm, familiar voice.

This track expresses the resolve to keep looking forward and living on even through hard times, and it’s a number that lifts your spirits when you listen to it.

SHINKANSENNobie

Shinkansen (Toninho Horta) / Nobie

Nobie is singing a song by Toninho Horta.

Nobie has also performed with Toninho Horta.

I feel this scat is about as close to Brazil as you can get.

Toninho Horta’s version features wonderful guitar as well, so please give it a listen.

Good GirlSincere

Sincere – Good Girl【Official Video】

A song with a gentle yet powerful voice that resonates deeply.

It delicately portrays the struggles of a “good kid” torn between outward appearances and inner feelings, and it stays close to the listener’s heart.

Released in February 2024 as Sincere’s 10th single, it was also chosen for the cover of Spotify’s Soul Music Japan.

This is a track to listen to when you feel like you’re losing your sense of self or being crushed by others’ expectations.

It will give you the chance to face the true feelings deep within your heart.

qualiaUVERworld

UVERworld 'Qualia'

A smash hit by the rock band UVERworld, known for their uniquely high-toned voice and emotionally powerful vocals that shine across everything from up-tempo tracks to ballads.

It’s a song that expresses gratitude for the miracle of two people meeting—an acclaimed gem cherished by those in the know.

marine snowSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Marine Snow” Music Video: SUKIMASWITCH – MARINE SNOW Music Video

An artist with a beautifully captivating singing voice and a soaring high tone, who has also handled theme songs for hugely popular anime.

This is a little-known gem of a ballad by Sukima Switch.

The song expresses the bittersweet feelings of realizing, only after losing them, how precious a lover was—something once taken for granted.

Windy LadyYamashita Tatsuro

Windy Lady

It’s an exquisite AOR number from Tatsuro Yamashita’s debut album.

I wonder if Will Lee knows that even now, there are still many people in Japan—musicians and general listeners alike—who were blown away by his insanely skilled bass on this track.