[Piano × J-POP] Tearjerker! A Selection of Moving/Touching Songs

homeKiyama Yusaku

home Piano Yusaku Kiyama “Uta Star!!” Opening Theme

A signature song by Yusaku Kiyama that sings of love and gratitude for family.

Released as his major-label debut in February 2008, the track captivated many with its warm vocals and lyrics that touch the heart.

Based on Kiyama’s real-life experiences, the words gently speak to the importance of everyday, simple happiness and the bonds within a family.

When played on the piano, the beauty of the melody stands out even more, resonating deeply with listeners.

If you perform it with your feelings for your family in mind, it will surely produce a lovely sound.

It’s a highly recommended song for anyone who wants to reaffirm their gratitude toward their family.

threadNakajima Miyuki

[Moving] When a high school girl played 'Ito' by Miyuki Nakajima on the piano, it was so incredible the station drew a huge crowd [Street Piano / Ito / Tapestry Miyuki Nakajima]

Miyuki Nakajima, who continues to leave a profound mark on Japanese music history as a singer-songwriter.

Released in 1992, this work is a gem of a masterpiece that beautifully depicts encounters and bonds between people.

Using the striking metaphor of warp and weft threads, it celebrates the wonder of fateful meetings.

Its simple yet moving melody harmonizes perfectly with lyrics rich in meaning, capturing the hearts of many and never letting go.

Since being used as a TV drama theme song in 1998, it has been cherished as an essential piece for life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

It is a highly recommended song for those who want to feel the delicacy of human relationships and the miracle of encounters.

scale (as of a fish or reptile)Hata Motohiro

“Tried Playing [Piano]” Scales: Motohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata captivates many with melodies and lyrics that etch themselves deeply into the heart.

The song released in June 2007 continues to shine as one of his signature works.

Its lyrics, which depict vulnerability and anxiety in love as well as strong resolve, resonate powerfully with listeners.

Chosen as the image song for a Nippon TV summer documentary, it is said to be one of the songs Hata himself performs most often.

When played on the piano, its beautiful melodic line stands out even more, deepening the song’s emotional resonance.

Conveying the importance of breaking out of one’s shell and showing your true self to another, this piece is especially recommended for anyone who needs the courage to express something from the heart.

First LoveUtada Hikaru

Played “First Love” by Hikaru Utada on the world’s finest piano

A signature song by the diva who revolutionized Japan’s music scene.

Debuting at 15, Hikaru Utada captured countless hearts with her first album, “First Love,” which achieved an astonishing 7.65 million sales.

This piece is packed with her charm.

The lyrics, depicting the pain of heartbreak and the unforgettable memory of first love, resonated deeply with many.

Its world, woven from a clear, translucent voice and a beautiful melody, can be fully expressed on the piano.

It’s a perfect pick not only for those experienced in love, but also for anyone who has felt their first romance.

Playing it on the piano may seem difficult, but if you start by slowly following the notes, you’re sure to create a lovely performance.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

Dogwood Tree / Yo Hitoto [With Sheet Music] Piano Cover / Tried Playing / Piano / CANACANA

This song, which sings of a gentle, warm atmosphere and an unending bond with a loved one, is a classic by Yo Hitoto released in 2004 and used as the theme for NTV’s Tuesday Suspense Theater.

Filled with wishes for peace and prayers for the happiness of those dear to us, its beautiful melody—beginning with a quiet piano intro—moves the hearts of many.

It’s also ideal for piano performance; by carefully expressing the emotions woven into each note, you can deliver a rendition that truly resonates with listeners.

Simple and somehow nostalgic, this piece nestles close to people’s hearts and leaves them with a warm feeling.

futureKobukuro

[Pro performance] Mirai — Kobukuro — Film “orange” — Piano

This song is by Kobukuro, a duo that represents the Japanese music scene.

Co-written by Kentaro Kobuchi and Shunsuke Kuroda, it was composed as the theme song for the film “orange.” Singing of bittersweet love and hope for the future, the track was released in December 2015 and became a long-running hit.

With a gentle, piano-centered arrangement, it features lyrics and a melody that resonate deeply.

Its richly emotional tone, which evokes scenes from the movie, becomes even more compelling in a piano performance.

It’s a recommended piece for those standing at a crossroads in life or holding dear feelings for someone special.

powder snowRemioromen

Powder Snow / Remioromen - Piano Cover

A three-piece rock band from Yamanashi Prefecture, Remioromen crafted this poignant winter classic.

It was also used as an insert song in the drama “1 Litre of Tears,” becoming a track that resonates closely with many listeners.

The lyrics delicately portray the feelings of two people passing by each other in a season of swirling powder snow, leaving a strong impression.

Ryota Fujimaki’s clear, transparent vocals pair exquisitely with the melody that strikes the heart.

Released in November 2005, this gem of a ballad sings of longing for precious things that have been lost.

It sinks in even deeper when heard in the cold season, so why not relax and listen to it on a winter night?