Songs that Teach the Value of Life | A Collection of Masterpieces Celebrating the Wonder of Living
We all think we understand the weight of the words “Cherish life,” but not many of us consciously make time in our daily lives to reflect on what life truly means.
In this article, we introduce songs that help us rediscover the preciousness of life.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks that teach us the importance of “life” and “living”: not only songs that directly take life as their theme, but also those that give us hope to live and convey the wonders of being alive.
Take a moment to pause and think about the value of life—and listen to these timeless songs that offer just such a moment.
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- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
Songs that teach the importance of life | A collection of masterpieces that convey the wonder of living (21–30)
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
Often cited as one of Yo Hitoto’s signature songs, this is a beautiful, slow-tempo ballad.
It’s well known that the song was created after she received an email from a friend who was in New York when the September 11 attacks occurred.
The lyrics, which pray for peace and wish happiness for one’s loved ones, are very striking.
The message embedded in these words seems to speak to the preciousness and weight of every life.
contrailMatsutoya Yumi
It’s a famous song sung by Yumi Matsutoya, the theme song of the film The Wind Rises.
In the commercial, only her lovely singing voice leaves an impression.
But when you listen closely to the entire song, the lyrics vividly portray the death of a young girl.
The girl’s soul, soaring high into the sky, races on as a beautiful contrail.
It’s not a direct message, but it allows you to feel the preciousness of life in your heart.
Reason for Lifesadamasashi
There are times when you find yourself asking why you were born, aren’t there? That’s when I’d like you to listen to this: “Inochi no Riyū” (The Reason for Life) by the singer-songwriter Masashi Sada.
It’s included on his 2009 album “Utsukushii Asa” (A Beautiful Morning).
Sada’s gentle, warm voice and the straightforward words of the lyrics really pierce the heart.
If you listen to this, your doubts about life might just melt away.
Take your time and listen while reflecting on the meaning.
Name of LifeKimura Yumi
Both the lyrics and melody of Inochi no Namae are beautiful, and the song was used as the theme for Studio Ghibli’s film Spirited Away.
It is sung by Yumi Kimura, a lyre player and vocalist.
Composed by Joe Hisaishi, the piece feels somehow nostalgic and transparent, compelling you to confront the theme of life.
The gentle yet bittersweet lyrics also thrust upon you the fact that you are alive right now, prompting you to pause and reflect on the preciousness of life.
I thought about killing myselfNakajima Mika
A song that depicts the despair of wanting to end one’s life and the salvation found through a certain encounter.
The lyrics and composition were done by Hiromu Akita, the vocalist and guitarist of amazarashi.
There are many reasons one might think about ending their life, but I feel, listening to this song, that a single thing can become a chance to reflect on oneself—and then turn into a reason to live.
Even when life seems full of nothing but hardships, a change in perspective might reveal something precious.
budKobukuro
Kobukuro’s songs all feature a seamless harmony that feels as comfortable as a couple who’s been together for years.
Tsubomi is their 14th single and was used as the theme song for the drama Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.
The lyrics seem to remind us anew of the important people around us, prompting us to recognize the preciousness of life from a different perspective.
The melody, too, conveys the fragility and sanctity of life, and I find myself moved to tears without realizing it.
I think it offers a chance to reflect on something we often overlook—that once someone is gone, it’s too late.
There was no meaning to being born.mafumafu
This is a song included on Mafumafu’s album Kagurairo Artifact, released in October 2019.
It portrays the anguish of someone who has lost their sense of purpose in life, along with the determination to keep going nonetheless.
Beginning with a quiet piano and gradually evolving into a grand, expansive sound, the arrangement deepens the emotional impact of the lyrics.
While the lyrics offer solace to those struggling with self-denial and loneliness, they also convey a tenacious will to live, resonating with many listeners.
Listening to this track may prompt you to reflect on the meaning and importance of life.