Recommended ballad songs for junior high school students. Famous and popular J-Pop songs.

ElfAdo

[Ado] Elf

An epic ballad portraying the loneliness and inner conflict carried by elves, beings of legend.

Written as the theme song for the drama “Peacock’s Dance, Who Saw It?”, the piece beautifully expresses the emotions of the protagonist played by Suzu Hirose.

Released digitally in January 2025, the song embodies a strong resolve to stay true to oneself, harmonizing a fantastical worldview with a powerful message.

It’s a track that deeply resonates with those who have lost sight of their path or experienced parting from someone dear.

On nights when you feel alone, or when you’re about to take a new step forward, it will surely give you a gentle push.

BelieveChe’Nelle

Che’Nelle – Believe

It’s a song included on Che’Nelle’s third album, “Believe,” released in 2012.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “BRAVE HEARTS: Umizaru,” it became a major hit.

Praised for its powerful vocals and soothing sound, it recorded 3 million downloads.

It’s a celebrated classic, widely loved as a moving ballad.

KSKDAIGO

DAIGO [KSK ~Full Ver.~]

It was released in 2016 as DAIGO’s fourth single.

It’s a proposal song that DAIGO created for Keiko Kitagawa, unveiled at their wedding reception on April 29 of the same year.

Overflowing with DAIGO’s feelings for Keiko Kitagawa, the song has been drawing attention as a new wedding song for the future.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

Released in 2007 as EXILE’s 23rd single, this song became their fourth to debut at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Rankings.

It was featured in a music.jp commercial.

Frequently sung at graduation ceremonies, it’s a ballad that perfectly suits the time when students transition from junior high to high school and begin to walk separate paths.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

Released in 2013 as FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ 21st single.

The song was selected as the theme for MBS/GAORA’s “85th Senbatsu” and Nippon TV’s “Akamru! Scoop Koshien.” Akashiya Sanma appears on the cover and also in the music video.

It’s a perfect ballad for expressing gratitude to someone.

tear(s)GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE / “Namida” Music Video (Short Version) – with lyrics

Released in 2016 as the 12th single by GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Known for their dance performances, the group explores new territory with this ballad—a song that conveys a refreshing feel despite its heartrending lyrics.

It’s a track I’d love to hear sung by a male vocalist.

beautiful daysGReeeeN

GReeeeN – beautiful days

It was released in 2016 as GReeeeN’s 28th single.

Chosen as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “Your Home Is My Business!,” it’s a grand love song that cries out a deep love for someone you can no longer meet.

With lyrics that warm the heart—whether you’re in love or have just been rejected—it’s a ballad that gives you strength.