[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now

Let’s go look for stardust againfukumimi

Fukumimi / Let's Go in Search of Star Fragments Again

A classic song by the musical unit Fukumi, released in 1999.

It’s a remake of a track originally released by Kyoko, and in the Fukumi version, the vocals are performed by three artists: Kyoko, Masayoshi Yamazaki, and Shikao Suga.

Chosen as the 10th anniversary image song for NHK BS, it’s a special piece.

It invites you to reaffirm your bond with a loved one and gaze up at the night sky while reflecting on life.

The warm, profound lyrics resonate deeply, reminding you of what truly matters.

It’s a gem of a love song that’s perfect for the change of seasons, when you find yourself wanting to look up at the night sky and thoughtfully revisit themes of love and life.

A late breakfast on a gentle afternoonHata Motohiro

Yawarakana Gogo Ni Osoi Choushoku Wo

Released in 2010, Motohiro Hata’s “A Gentle Afternoon with a Late Breakfast” is truly a ballad that pierces the heart.

Included as the B-side to his debut single “Synchro,” it’s a masterpiece highly regarded by fans.

Hata’s warm vocals intertwine with lyrics that quietly trace one’s inner feelings, gently sketching loneliness and hope in the listener’s heart.

The song’s charm lies in offering a moment to pause amid daily life and reflect in silence.

If you listen in the afternoon, its soft light will gently guide you toward a new day.

It’s the perfect track for those times when you want to sit with yourself in quiet.

equalOfisharu Higedan Dism

equal

The melody and vocals of Higedan’s ballads have a gentle quality that’s perfect for when you want to slow down and relax.

This track is included on the mini-album “Report.” With lyrics that carry the message, “While respecting everyone’s individual values and ways of life, we are all equally precious,” it’s something anyone can surely relate to.

In the busyness of everyday life, it’s common to struggle with your sense of self-worth and your relationships with others.

Higedan tenderly embraces those feelings deep in your heart.

Released in April 2017, this song is a hidden gem from before their major-label debut.

It’s best enjoyed alone on a quiet night.

Night fishing is good.Sakanakushon

Sakanaction / Night Fishing Is Good -Music Video-

A five-piece rock band, Sakanaction, known for their unparalleled presence through songs and live performances born from an almost obsessive dedication to sound, released this as their second digital-only single.

Issued as an advance track from their second album, “NIGHT FISHING,” the song is also known as an homage to Queen, the legendary British rock band.

Its complex arrangement—befitting its incorporation of classical music forms—showcases Sakanaction’s high level of musicality.

While it pays homage, the band filters it through their own sensibilities to create outstanding originality—a masterpiece you should listen to at least once.

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Hoshino Takashi

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trigger; impetus; the start; what prompted itNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Kikkake” (Catalyst/Trigger)

Nogizaka46’s songs depict the sparkling feelings of youth in their teens while speaking to the importance of life’s choices, decisions, and self-actualization.

They carry a powerful message that awakens the courage sleeping in your heart and encourages you to walk your own path.

This song, which holds special meaning for Nogizaka46, was included on the 2016 album “Sorezore no Isu.” It was performed on the dream stage at the Tokyo Dome, and at members’ graduation moments it conveyed both the sorrow of parting and a sense of hope for each of their futures.

When you find yourself at a crossroads, when you’re unsure, remember this song.

It will surely light a lamp in your heart and give you the courage to take a new step forward.

Sorrowful EkayanaYorushika

Only sorrow

It is a moving story that portrays a world with a floating, underwater-like sensation and a sense of transparency.

The protagonist, burdened by deep loss, is memorable as they free themselves from the past and try to take a new step forward.

Yorushika’s gentle vocals, along with piano and strings, weave a delicate sound that further elevates the narrative.

This ambitious work was included on the album Elma, released in August 2019.

It forms a pair with the previous album, That’s Why I Gave Up on Music, and is positioned as part of a grand story depicting art and life from the perspectives of two protagonists.

It is a song that will resonate deeply with those who wish to face the past and find a new self.

You’ll surely be drawn into its unique world where music and literature intertwine.

umbrellaMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – umbrella【LIVE from “Atlantis”】

In a world where the rain pours down, you become an umbrella to protect the ones you love.

This is a heartwarming ballad from Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

While facing misfortune and hardship, it gently sings about the importance of supporting one another.

Released in June 2016 as the B-side to their second single “Samama Festival!”, it was sent out into the world with quiet grace.

Its softly accompanying melody and profound lyrics resonate with listeners’ hearts.

It’s a perfect song for rainy days, or for moments when someone special comes to mind.

Brimming with the charm of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, this work holds the power to connect people through music.