A selection of classic love ballads, from the latest hits to timeless favorites.

Love is…Kato Miria

MILIYAH Kato “Love is…”

The grand ballad inspired by the classical masterpiece Canon delivers a straightforward message—no matter what happens, we’ll stay together—that truly resonates.

Even when loneliness and anxiety make it hard to see ahead, there is someone who will never give up on you and keep supporting you.

It sings of the strength and preciousness of such love and bonds.

Released in June 2007 as Miliyah Kato’s tenth single, the song also served as the ending theme for the anime Toward the Terra.

Its inclusion in the best-of album M BEST II shows how it has continued to be loved over time.

A pledge of eternal love, this work is the ultimate love song—one that makes you want to stay with the person you cherish forever.

WHYKato Miria

Miliyah Kato “WHY”

Miliyah Kato’s number, born from the “why?” that arises out of romantic miscommunication, resonates painfully deep in the heart.

Set to a powerful, rock-tinged sound, this song straightforwardly expresses irreconcilable feelings and a cry from the heart.

Even while carrying a sense of helplessness, you can feel the strength to keep moving forward.

Released in November 2009, it reached No.

10 on the Oricon weekly chart and was later included on the acclaimed album HEAVEN.

When you don’t understand how the other person feels and are suffering from questions with no answers, listening to it might feel like it speaks your emotions for you.

It’s sure to gently stay by the side of anyone struggling with a frustrating love.

YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)Kato Miria

Miliyah Kato “YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)”

Speaking of collaborations between powerhouse female singers, we can’t forget this song by Miliyah Kato and Izumi Nakasone of HY.

Based on real unrequited-love stories sent in by radio listeners, the two artists co-created this gem of a ballad.

Released in September 2014 as their 30th single, it was also included on the milestone 10th-anniversary album “MUSE.” The frustration of not being able to put your feelings into words, and the emotional wavering as you move toward confessing your love, come through poignantly in the harmony between Kato’s delicate vocals and Nakasone’s warm voice.

Chosen as the theme song for a radio drama, this track just might gently give you the push you need if you’re struggling with a one-sided love.

LONELYKatō Miriya feat. LANA

Miliyah Kato feat. LANA “LONELY”

This is a track by Miliyah Kato—known for her realistic, highly relatable lyrics—teaming up with new-generation icon LANA.

The theme of the song is “loneliness.” It powerfully conveys the honest feeling of “I’m not okay” hidden behind a brave front, and the earnest wish to simply have someone by your side.

Over a mellow beat crafted by KM, the emotional vocals of Miliyah Kato blend with LANA’s cool flow, stirring the heart.

Released in July 2024, the song also drew attention as a collaboration between a Heisei-era gal and a Reiwa-era gal.

On nights when you feel alone, this song, which seems to speak on your behalf, will surely stay gently by your side.

snow moonYamada Ryosuke

Ryosuke Yamada – “snow moon” [Official Music Video]

A winter mid-tempo ballad that captivatingly conveys a sweet yet bittersweet love story woven into a snowy landscape, expressed through a delicate singing voice.

Set for release in February 2025, this track will also be included on the album “RED.” With vivid, wintry imagery, it delivers sincere affection for a cherished person, carried by a clear and beautiful vocal.

It’s a wonderful song that gently keeps you company on winter nights when you’re thinking of someone you love or during quiet moments spent reminiscing about precious memories.

heartbeatFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Heartbeat <31st Anniv. Live “Slow Collection”> (Short ver.)

A poignant yet warm ballad that captivatingly portrays the turmoil of an unexpected love.

The protagonist, who had decided never to fall in love, grapples with confusion and a loneliness hidden behind a brave front, all conveyed through Masaharu Fukuyama’s richly emotive vocals.

Included on his original album “AKIRA,” released in December 2020—his first in six years and eight months—the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “#Remolove: Normal Love Is for the Weak.” Its delicate melody reflects the nuances of the protagonist’s emotions, making it a deeply satisfying listen.

Try listening while thinking of someone special.

Love KnotNovelbright

Novelbright – Love Knot [Official Music Video]

A love ballad titled “Ai Musubi” was included on rock band Novelbright’s first album, Declaration of Opening, released in 2021.

With a simple arrangement of just vocals and piano accompaniment, its groom’s-eye-view lyrics pledging love make it a moving wedding song.

The music video features Rina Ikoma and Reiya Masaki.

We wish the bride and groom lifelong happiness.

Why not choose it as background music for a performance and present it as a gift to the happy couple?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hamada Takuya

Report a problem