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

We againSG

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

A ballad wrapped in warm kindness, with a melody and lyrics that portray life’s important milestones and resonate deeply.

It weaves the universal themes of “farewell” and “reunion” together with everyday memories, overflowing with a gentle empathy that stays close to the listener’s heart.

SG’s expansive, expressive vocals deliver these feelings with care.

Released in April 2021, the song was also featured from November 2024 as the Calorie Mate exam-season support commercial song.

A wind ensemble version in collaboration with the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Orchestra has also generated buzz.

It’s a perfect track for soothing a work-weary heart or when you want a boost to keep going tomorrow.

OLDROSEAqua Timez

『BLEACH』× Aqua Timez『OLDROSE』 | JUMP MV

This is a gem of a number that sings about human connections and the meaning of life.

Created by Aqua Timez, the piece was written specifically for the anime BLEACH.

For the band—who have four previous tie-ins with the series, from “Sen no Yoru wo Koete” to “MASK”—this marks their fifth collaboration.

Their signature emotional vocals blend beautifully with melodic instrumentation.

While closely aligning with the anime’s world, the song delivers a universal message that anyone can relate to.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking music that resonates with the heart.

Love’s Melody and Rainy SkiesAAA

AAA / “Love Sound and Rainy Sky” Music Video

Released in 2013 as AAA’s 38th single.

Chosen as the CM song for Ito-Yokado’s “WARM STYLE,” its lyrics, which straightforwardly express romantic feelings, resonated especially with young women.

It won the Excellence Award at the 55th Japan Record Awards, and it’s a favorite among AAA members—a track they poured their hearts into.

StoryAI

AI – Story

Released in 2005 as AI’s 12th single.

The song conveys the message that we must cherish today and this very moment—because even if we think we can always talk to someone, we might lose that chance.

It appeared on the Oricon charts for 73 weeks and became a major hit.

It is one of AI’s signature songs and a well-known ballad that remains popular in karaoke.

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.