[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now
Beyond the trendy songs you often hear on TV or around town, and the tracks tied in with dramas or anime that everyone knows, there are also hidden gems—songs from before an artist got big or tracks without any tie-ins.
This time, we’ll introduce those hidden masterpieces that are especially popular among the artists’ fans.
Many of these songs don’t get much TV exposure, but they’re well-known among fans—once you listen, you’re sure to get hooked! If you haven’t been exploring or adding new music lately and want something fresh to listen to, this is for you.
I hope you find a new favorite track!
- A hidden gem known only to those in the know. A great J-pop/Japanese song.
- Memorable masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- A catchy tune that sounds familiar
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Hidden gems of love songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems and lesser-known songs by popular Japanese rock bands
- Hidden gems among tear-jerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of inspirational songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- Hidden gems of healing songs. Recommended popular tracks
- [Cheer Song] A hidden gem that stirs the soul. A rallying anthem known to those in the know.
- [Must read] Songs with great lyrics. Moving songs you’ll want to listen to while reading the lyrics
- Nothing but masterpieces! Hit songs from the Reiwa era that are perfect for background music
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Masterpieces You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now (71–80)
monologueThe Back Horn
It’s a work packed to the brim with an inescapable sense of loneliness and overflowing emotion.
It’s a song by the rock band THE BACK HORN, known for many classics like “Wana” and “Cobalt Blue,” included on their 2000 album Reborn Sun.
Its appeal lies in the 3/4 rhythm, the dynamic contrast between calm and intensity, and the noisy guitar sound.
It gives the impression of a wall of sound closing in.
Be sure to listen while paying attention to vocalist Yamada’s wrung-out, impassioned singing.
Fight Songarashi
Despite boasting nationwide popularity, the five-member idol group Arashi announced a hiatus as of 2020, and anticipation for their reunion remains strong.
This song, included on their 18th single “Love so sweet,” was used as the official support song for the variety show “G no Arashi!” Its positive message, carried by a high-energy, fast-paced chorus, offers the kind of power that helps you push through when you feel like you’re about to break.
With its pop arrangement that brightens your mood just by listening, it’s a powerful pop tune.
Youth Changing RoomKarin.
Karin., a next-generation singer-songwriter born in 2001.
This song, included on her 2019 album Identity Crisis, might be one many of you have seen the music video for on YouTube.
The track itself boasts over a million views.
Its deeply relatable lyrics and her distinct, slightly husky voice are truly captivating—she’s definitely an artist to watch! You’re sure to find other songs that hit you right in the heart, so be sure to give her a listen!
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share Right Now (81–90)
milkchelmico
chelmico is a female rap duo.
While they usually put out a lot of tracks with upbeat tempos and breezy rap, this song has a very laid-back, gentle vibe.
The acoustic guitar accompaniment paired with their relaxed singing and rapping feels incredibly comfortable and soothing.
I imagine many people like songs with this kind of atmosphere.
It’s a track where you can enjoy a perfect balance between the pop elements of its easy-to-listen-to melody and the sophisticated feel brought by the cool rap.
to clear up; to become clear (e.g., weather clearing)atarayo
A four-piece band whose “I’ll Forget Your Silence in October” was a hit, Atarayo’s second digital single of 2021.
The lightly dancing acoustic guitar and fresh band sound leave a strong impression.
It paints a beautiful world where the fleeting end of spring meets the hope of the next one beginning.
The down-to-earth lyrics gently lean into all kinds of “I don’t knows,” and sink in effortlessly.
You might feel as if you’re being reborn with the changing seasons.
Hitomi’s clear vocals on guitar are wonderful, too—this is a lovely track wrapped in freshness.
It’s even more highly recommended than their previous release!
Smoke of LoveChatto Monchī
This track stands out for Eriko Hashimoto’s delicate vocals and the band’s light, brisk sound.
The lyrics convey the pounding excitement of falling in love and the desire to be lost in a world for just the two of you.
Released in March 2006 as Chatmonchy’s first major-label single, it drew attention by being chosen as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s music program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN.” The lyrics vividly portray the feelings of someone in love, and the refreshing melody evokes the arrival of spring.
It’s a recommended number for those newly in love or anyone wanting to look back on memories with someone special.
invitationShibasaki Kou
Ko Shibasaki is highly regarded not only as an actress but also for her work as a singer.
She has released so many songs that you might wonder if singing is actually her main profession.
Among them, “invitation” is a summer track with a pleasantly brisk feel.
It was also used as the opening theme for the drama “A Song to the Sun” (Taiyou no Uta).
Try closing your eyes and focusing on the lyrics—you’ll surely feel the freshness of summer.
In the music video, a young Masataka Kubota dashes around in a school uniform.
