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

If the Earth were a flat plateReoNa

ReoNa “If the Earth Were a Single Flat Board” (NHK “Minna no Uta,” April–May 2023)

A gemlike love song that gently nestles close to the heart, weaving together warmth and wistfulness.

It delicately portrays human relationships on the premise that the Earth is a single flat board.

ReoNa’s translucent vocals further deepen the song’s world.

Released digitally in May 2023 and also broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta, this piece features a melody by Tota Kasamura that lingers in the ear, with Kazuya Komatsu’s arrangement enhancing its charm.

It’s the perfect track for reaffirming your bond with someone important or for encouraging someone who needs a lift.

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.

SKY’s the limitboku no ririkku no bouyomi

Boku no Lyric no Boyomi – “SKY’s the limit” Music Video

A hidden gem by the artist Boku no Lyric no Boyomi, loved especially by music fans for his memorable vocals that resonate with listeners and his philosophical lyrics.

It’s a track where his subjective and objective selves are personified and expressed.

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.

pennilessmūnraidāzu

Moonriders Skankin'

It became the theme song for the film The Detective Is in the Bar.

If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll know the worldview matches perfectly.

I was really happy, since I’ve always loved this song.

Reaching the 40-year mark is truly an achievement.

I hope this song will be loved by everyone along with the film.

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.