[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 Songs You'll Want to Tell Someone About Right Now (91–100)
Sing of springback number
This is a track by back number, the hugely popular band known for countless love songs, originally included on their indie-era mini-album “Nogashita Sakana.” It was later featured on their best-of compilation, but it remains a hidden gem cherished especially by longtime fans.
The lyrics portray a bittersweet springtime breakup, and the story of a man who can’t quite let go, gradually starting to move forward while holding onto his feelings for her—an affecting narrative.
The lingering attachment and poignancy often found in their music, along with their catchy melodies, were already fully on display at this early stage.
I’m going to see you on the last train.Chōkyūmei
The band Chokyuumei, which gained attention after their song “I Want to Be Your Lover” went viral on TikTok, has a hidden gem among their technically polished tracks: “I’m Going to See You on the Last Train.” It was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “A Love That Begins on the Last Train.” The song portrays the love story of a long-distance couple, conveying an urge to take off running through its driving band sound.
It’s a love song where Rei’s rich vocals unfold over a jazzy band performance.
[Hidden Gems] Japanese songs you’ll want to tell someone about right now (101–110)
LiarKIDS
A four-piece rock band from Nara Prefecture, KIDS, delivers this classic song about springtime farewells.
Beloved by fans since their indie days, it’s a track that earned enduring popularity and was also included on their major-label debut album, “L to L.” Vocalist Ryo Okuno’s signature husky voice deepens the poignancy of the story portrayed in the lyrics.
Though the band regretfully went on hiatus in 2015, this song—and many of their others—remains cherished by fans to this day.
Because you are hereayaka
It’s a song included on her second album.
The album itself sold very well, so many of you might already know it.
Although she’s known for her gentle ballads, this track emphasizes a bright, catchy, and energetic vibe.
In that sense, I introduced it as a hidden gem! Please enjoy a slightly different, more powerful side of her singing!
sky blueGARNET CROW
A track from the album released in 2002 by GARNET CROW, a band that gained immense popularity for its calm vocals and one-of-a-kind worldview.
It’s a captivating song featuring powerful, satisfying vocals over a grand, band-driven arrangement.
The refreshing lyrics are another highlight—together with the beautiful layering of chorus and gut guitar—so be sure to listen closely to the words and savor the experience.
mirrorHakubi
Hakubi is a three-piece rock band formed in Kyoto.
Their appearances at music festivals around the country have become increasingly prominent, and they finally made their major-label debut in 2021.
This song, which they had been performing since before their debut and which commands overwhelming popularity among fans, portrays the struggle of looking inward and trying to move forward despite the turmoil.
Its lyrics have given courage to many listeners.
Singing about their inner selves, as in this track, is one of the charms of their music, and it’s undoubtedly a song that will continue to be loved by fans even after their major debut.
Song of LovePsycho le Cému
This is a track with an exhilarating, breakneck sense of speed that feels great.
It’s Psycho le Cému’s debut single, “Ai no Uta,” from the band that established the new genre of cosplay visual kei.
Each member dresses as an RPG game character, giving the band an incredibly striking look.
When this song was released, it achieved the remarkable feat of breaking into the Oricon Top 10 despite being a debut single.
It’s simple, but its cool, catchy sound lingers, showcasing solid songwriting chops.
