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

Tears are about to fall.[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Tears Are About to Fall (MV) @ALEXANDROSchannel

A signature song by the rock band [Alexandros], hugely popular among younger generations for their exhilaratingly fast, catchy melodies and powerful high-tone vocals.

It’s a hidden gem of a ballad that expresses the joy of being united with the one you love.

BRIDGET SONGKōda Kumi

Kumi Koda / BRIDGET SONG (from the album “W FACE ~inside~”)

A hidden gem by Kumi Koda, an artist renowned for love songs expressed with a powerful voice that captivates listeners and an emotive vibrato.

The track conveys a positive message about wholeheartedly enjoying one’s life in the present.

Summer IllusionGARNET CROW

GARNET CROW Summer Illusion live (2004–2013)

A signature song by GARNET CROW, an artist beloved across generations for their powerful, emotionally stirring vocals and beautiful high tones.

It’s a hidden gem of a ballad that expresses the yearning to search for the traces of a lover after a breakup.

A lonely toothbrush.Sakuraba Yuuichirou

A lonely toothbrush.

A hidden gem of a ballad sung by Yuichiro Sakuraba—played by Tomoya Nagase—in a smash-hit drama.

It’s a song in which he gazes at his own worn-down toothbrush and recalls the happy days spent with his lover; a masterpiece that stirs a poignant, aching feeling whenever you listen to it.

night trainMAMALAID RAG

Night Train / MAMALAID RAG 2002

This is a track that shines with Marmalade Rug’s refined pop sensibilities.

The gentle vocals carry a beautiful melody, with a clear influence from 1970s Japanese pop.

I first heard this song about 17 years ago while shopping at a clothing store, and it took me two years to find out the artist’s name.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

A heartwarming ballad that begins with piano tones shining under a soft glow.

Sung with a clear, emotive voice, it portrays the radiance of a world transformed by partings and new encounters—one of Sukima Switch’s quintessential masterpieces.

Released in March 2004, the song became a long-running hit over 38 weeks.

It was featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and served as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta,” continuing to resonate with many listeners.

Included on the albums “Natsugumo Noise,” “Greatest Hits,” and “DOUBLES BEST,” its charm deepens with time.

Perfect for those moments when you want to gaze at the night view in a lounge and reminisce about memories with someone special.

The face of the sunTomita Labo feat. Saigenji

Face of the Sun / Tomita Lab feat. Saigenji

This is a live recording, and Saigenji’s scat singing is fantastic.

He often plays songs with a Latin flavor, and you can catch glimpses of that approach in this track as well.

It’s included on Tomita Lab’s “Shipbuilding,” and that version is also recommended.