[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 So Good You’ll Want to Tell Someone Right Away (41–50)
Scatter, Scatter, Fill (feat. Masaki Suda)Kimyō Reitarō
Reitaro Kimyo is a singer-songwriter who also performs as the vocalist and guitarist of the band Tensai Band and works as a narrator for TV programs and commercials.
The digital-only single Chiru Chiru Michiru feat.
Masaki Suda, featuring Masaki Suda, grabs you from the opening with its somewhat nostalgic melody.
Its soulful ensemble is likely to captivate listeners of any generation.
The layered vocal harmonies are emotional, giving the track a universal appeal.
[Hidden Gems] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Tell Someone About Right Now (51–60)
SoarYU-KI
Songs released at milestones in an artist’s career tend to feel extra special to fans, don’t they? With that in mind, I’d like to introduce YUKI’s “Maiagare.” This track is included on the album “joy,” which she released when she returned to work after maternity leave.
It was originally a B-side to another single, but by being placed as the first track on the album, it became especially memorable.
The sound is high-energy, as if celebrating her comeback.
shed skinaiko
It’s a heartbreak song told from a woman’s point of view, about trying to move on from an ex.
It’s included on “Zutto,” the 29th single by Osaka-born singer-songwriter aiko, released in 2011.
Its brisk rhythm lifts your spirits.
Become a new meKumaki Anri
A song by Anri Kumaki characterized by a translucent singing voice and melodies that resonate with the heart.
It carries a positive message about overcoming heartbreak and becoming a new version of yourself.
Released in November 2006, the song was produced for a Shiseido corporate commercial and drew significant attention.
It was also highly praised musically, receiving the Special Best Sounds Award at the 47th ACC CM Festival.
This gentle, cleansing ballad captures listeners’ hearts and doesn’t let go.
It’s recommended as music to immerse yourself in through headphones when you want to step away from a busy daily life and reflect on your inner self.
two-flower blossomikimonogakari
Ikimono-gakari is loved by many for their powerful vocals and lyrics that dive straight into the heart.
While “Arigatou” and “YELL” are often cited as their signature songs, this track, “Nirinbana,” is also a real gem.
It was included as the B-side to the 2006 single “Koisuru Otome” and served as the theme song for the Uplink-distributed film “Cherry Pie.” The lyrics—about continuing to love someone no matter what form that love takes—and the vocals, which savor each and every word, are deeply moving.
They inspire you to carry the invisible yet potent power of love within your heart as you live your life.
everlasting lampPEOPLE 1
This is a hidden gem by PEOPLE 1 that portrays the doubts and struggles faced by young people today, carried by a gentle and beautiful melody.
The lyrics, which question the formation of self and how to face society, resonate deeply and quietly illuminate the heart like lights floating in the night sky.
Released in July 2020 as their second digital single, it was later included on the album GANG AGE, released in September of the same year.
The music video recorded 1.4 million views in about two weeks, drawing attention for its pop, light dance animation.
This work is recommended for young people searching for their own path and for anyone seeking a light in their heart.
Its deeply empathetic message and comfortable groove are sure to stay close to the listener’s heart.
Summer SaxophoneChizuru Kondo
An urban, sophisticated track marked by a delicate piano melody.
It’s included on Chizuru Kondo’s 1993 album “Umi e Tadoritsuku Route” (The Route That Leads to the Sea).
This song conveys Kondo’s new challenge as she broadened her career from jazz vocalist to pop music.
The lyrics, which capture the fleeting nature of summer nights and moments of brilliance, resonate deeply with listeners.
The lively saxophone melody line evokes both the bustle of the city and the calm of the seaside.
Listen at the end of summer, and its charm grows even more.
It’s a hidden gem that City Pop fans should definitely check out.