A selection of classic love ballads, from the latest hits to timeless favorites.
Among people who enjoy listening to music, many especially love listening to love ballads that depict love in its many forms, don’t they?
In particular, when you’re nursing a crush or going through a heartbreak, it’s common to find comfort in lyrics that mirror your own feelings.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic love ballads that sing about a wide range of situations and emotions.
From bittersweet songs about unrequited love or breakups to joyful tracks portraying couples who are happily close and supportive, we’ve chosen broadly—so try finding the one song that perfectly matches your state of mind.
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A selection of classic love ballads: introducing picks from the latest hits to timeless standards (61–70)
Ikuriipuhaipe
This track is a newly produced song based on “Douse, Ai da,” which we created in collaboration with rapper Sorane.
Whereas the previous work leaned heavily into hip-hop elements, this one shifts into a gentle, heartfelt ballad.
We also trimmed detailed story descriptions to focus more on the feeling of love, making it easier to relate to.
And since there’s no rap section, it’s easier to sing at karaoke.
Alternatively, you could practice both and perform them back-to-back.
PearlGosuperāzu
You’ll be drawn in by the warm five-part harmonies.
It’s a song by The Gospellers, included on their EP “Pearl,” released in November 2024 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their major-label debut.
The lyrics, which express love for someone dear through the motif of “pearl,” as reflected in the title, are truly wonderful.
The grand arrangement and melodic line seem to quietly and slowly sink into the depths of your heart.
It’s perfect for when you want to feel the bond with someone you love.
Tearful KissSazan Ōrusutāzu
A bittersweet yet beautiful melody that seeps into the heart, this ballad delicately portrays the protagonist’s sorrow and lingering feelings as they face a breakup with a lover.
The emotionally rich vocals woven by Southern All Stars, together with a simple instrumental arrangement, convey the pain of heartbreak with striking clarity.
Released in July 1992, it drew major attention as the theme song for the drama “Zutto Anata ga Suki Datta.” It became Southern All Stars’ first million-selling single and won the Excellence Award at the 34th Japan Record Awards.
Whether you’re seeking to heal the sadness of parting or reminiscing about past love, this song gently stays by your side—and continues to be a source of comfort for many to this day.
That’s all there is to it.Marushii
Be sure to check out the passionate love ballad “Tada Sore Dake no Koto ga sa” as well.
This song was produced by Marcy and has garnered attention as an insert track for the romance show “Koisuru ♥ Shūmatsu Homestay 2023 Spring ~Sweet Orange Memory~.” The lyrics depict a woman who has experienced heartbreak, looking back on the happy days the two of them spent together.
What stands out is the sprinkling of words that convey regret and a sense of putting on a brave face.
Give it a listen together with the drama-style music video featuring Rinka Kumada.
I knewRozarīna
Singer-songwriter Rosalina, whose stage name comes from the relaxing herb “rosalina.” Her digital-only single “I knew,” released on April 19, 2023, was written as an insert song for the TV drama Unknown.
Its unique groove and melody line are challenging, but if you can pull it off at karaoke, you’ll definitely stand out.
With sentimental lyrics that resonate, it’s a number we’d love to hear women sing.
threadNakajima Miyuki
Originally released as the B-side to “Inochi no Betsumei,” “Ito” was treated as the second-string track.
However, the depth of its lyrics sparked conversation, and it eventually became so acclaimed that the drama’s theme song was switched from “Inochi no Betsumei” to “Ito.” Today, it has grown into a song cherished by music professionals as well, covered by major artists like EXILE ATSUSHI and Aimer.
Its famous chorus—“If the vertical thread is you, then I will become the horizontal thread”—is penned with a depth that even evokes a sense of eternity.
It’s a masterful ballad that reminds us that true classics transcend time.
LA LA LA Love SongKubota Toshinobu
An R&B masterpiece ballad that lifts your spirits like a carousel.
It beautifully captures both the sweetness and the ache of romance.
Toshinobu Kubota’s silky vocals and Naomi Campbell’s whisper-like chorus blend in exquisite harmony.
Released in May 1996, it became a breakout hit as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Long Vacation,” selling 1.856 million copies and winning the Japan Record Award for Excellence.
With a warmth that gently wraps the rain in your heart, this song is perfect for those newly in love and for adults who cherish precious memories.