[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.
- [Songs with Great Lyrics] Masterpieces you’ll want to listen to while savoring the words that resonate with your heart
- Nothing but masterpieces! Hit songs from the Reiwa era that are perfect for background music
[Hidden Gems] Japanese songs you’ll want to share with someone right now (111–120)
fingertipsGRAPEVINE
A 2012 track by GRAPEVINE that has captivated rock fans since their debut with a brilliantly original, genius sound.
It’s a slow-tempo rock number with a worldview that departs from conventional rock.
This blues-tinged masterpiece even evokes a sense of seasonality, reminding you that rock isn’t only about speed and glitz.
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Masterpieces You'll Want to Share Right Now (121–130)
Christmas Eve RAPKICK THE CAN CREW
A Christmas song by the three-member rap group KICK THE CAN CREW, whose playful track and three distinctly individual rap styles make it especially fun.
Layering the trio’s raps over a Christmas-themed track featuring bells, it transforms the original song’s melancholic Christmas mood into a quietly exhilarating and joyful holiday arrangement.
Shutting from the skyL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
The opening track from L’Arc~en~Ciel’s landmark first album, released in 1993.
With expansive guitar effects and vocals that evoke a floating sensation, it’s a delightfully airy song.
The title means “claustrophobia,” and its worldview perfectly matches the mood of the track.
For longtime fans, it may be a particularly nostalgic piece.
it’s just loveMISIA
A song by MISIA, whose artist name carries the meaning “to deliver music to the people of ASIA,” and who enjoys popularity as a singer representing Asia, including Japan.
Featured on her second album, LOVE IS THE MESSAGE, the track was used in a Max Factor “Nanako Nadeshiko” commercial.
The soulful vocals layered over a delicate, acoustic guitar–centered ensemble resonate deeply alongside lyrics that encourage being true to oneself.
It’s a hidden gem that makes you want to keep listening—a track that reaffirms MISIA’s expressive power.
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.
Good Luck in Summer and AutumnRA MU
RA MU was a band that delivered a unique sound by blending city pop with idol pop.
Fronted by Momoko Kikuchi, who is active as both an actress and singer, their hidden gem is “Natsu to Aki no Good-Luck.” The track was included on their 1988 album THANKS GIVING.
Centered on bright brass and synth tones, with a sinuous bassline added in, it comes together as a breezy, buoyant sound.
Set against the backdrop of the seaside at summer’s end, it’s an urban, soothing song where her translucent vocals poignantly capture a bittersweet romance.
OrangeSMAP
This song was included as the B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” released in 2000.
It frequently ranked high in fan polls for best-of album tracks, and despite being a B-side, it has garnered strong support.
Furthermore, the chorus lyrics, which convey a message of farewell and gratitude, were seen as overlapping with a message from SMAP as they disbanded, bringing the song back into the spotlight after their breakup.
It’s truly a hidden gem that absolutely deserves to be highlighted.
