[J-Pop] A collection of popular songs with “love” in the title
How many people can quickly answer when asked, “What is love?” I’m sure everyone has their own idea of what “love” means.
And it’s the same in music.
Throughout the long history of Japanese music, there are countless songs that use the word “love.” So this time, I’ll be introducing popular songs that have the character for “love” (愛) in their titles.
I’ve tried to pick works from a wide range of eras, so hopefully there’s something that resonates with everyone.
Be sure to read to the end!
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[J-Pop] Compilation of Popular Songs with 'Love' in the Title (11–20)
I want to tell you how I feel (my love)aimyon
Released in 2017, “Ai wo Tsutaetai Datoka” by Aimyon, a singer-songwriter who approaches love songs from every angle, is striking for its realistic depiction of romance told from a male perspective.
It portrays a relationship between two people who can’t become lovers, conjuring the image of a man with a world-weary, ennui-tinged expression.
Her supple yet powerful voice conveys both passion and heartbreak.
The song captures a man’s sentimental feelings precisely because he loves someone.
Many listeners will likely relate to that urge to see the person again after agonizing over it.
There is nothing but love in the world.Keyakizaka46
The one that evokes a fresh, sweet-and-sour feeling of youthful romance is “Sekai ni wa Ai Shika Nai.” It was released in 2016 by the idol group Keyakizaka46, known for songs with strong thematic depth.
Pure affection for someone special is told alongside summer scenery.
Their emotional vocals ride on a driving rhythm that truly resonates.
You can’t help but swoon at their determination to express their feelings no matter what anyone says.
It’s a song that conveys a powerful resolve: even as the sky and weather change, their feelings remain the same.
I love you, but I can’t love you.AAA
The song that tightens your chest with its portrayal of someone struggling with love that has nowhere to go is AAA’s 2015 release, “Aishiteru noni, Aisenai” (“I Love You, But I Can’t Love You”).
It depicts a couple who have unintentionally grown apart and sings about the heartbreaking reality that they can’t go back to how things were.
The emotional choral work shared by male and female vocals is also striking.
It’s a piece that portrays a deep love that doesn’t end, even after parting from the partner who was always by your side.
Many listeners may relate to the feeling of sinking into sadness precisely because you love someone yet can’t see them.
Song of LoveSutoroberī Furawā
This is the debut single by Strawberry Flower, a duo consisting of vocalist Tomoe Watanabe and guitarist Takeshi Tomozuma.
It was used as the commercial song for Nintendo’s game Pikmin.
Its mysterious lyrics and sound seem to match the game’s slightly unusual mechanics—many of you may find it familiar.
With the concept of “living creatures go on living in a world where many things happen,” the surreal worldview it pursues is exquisite.
Listen and feel the love that runs beneath it!
lover; mistress; extramarital partnerTeresa Ten
Often called the “Diva of Asia,” Teresa Teng was a Taiwan-born singer indispensable to any discussion of Japan’s Showa-era pop.
Her song “Aijin” (Lover), known as the track that ignited her popularity, was released in 1985.
The lyrics, which depict continuing to think of a loved one even if you cannot become their partner, are deeply moving.
Many listeners sense a certain poignancy in her supple vocal delivery.
It’s a love song overflowing with the pure feeling of “wanting to see the one you long for.” Please take your time and listen closely to this classic pop ballad that portrays both the beauty and the fragility of love.
As I am in love…Akimoto Junko
Junko Akimoto, a female singer who made her major-label debut following the hit of “The Bridges of Madison County,” has a repertoire that portrays deep affection—most notably “Ai no Mama de…” released in 2008.
The song celebrates the joy of meeting a loved one over the course of life, evoking the image of a mature, elegant romance.
Her supple, beautiful voice conveys a passionate longing, and the way she cherishes each moment spent with the one she loves is deeply moving.
Let yourself receive the profound love woven into its sweeping melody.
[J-Pop] Popular songs with “Love” in the title (21–30)
EXILE PRIDE ~To Love a World Like This~EXILE
Released in April 2013 as their 41st single and positioned as the theme song for their dome tour, this track was widely featured, including as the CM song for Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical and in tie-ups with Fujitsu and Toyota, paired with visuals symbolizing “forward progress.” With lyrics by ATSUSHI declaring the straightforward message of “to love this world,” it powerfully sings of the resolve and solidarity to overcome adversity.
Its classic dance-pop arrangement—driven by robust choral work, strings, and brass—builds uplifting momentum, while singalong-friendly melodies maximize a sense of unity at live shows.
It sold 560,000 copies in its first week and surpassed one million in total sales.
At the 55th Japan Record Awards, it earned the group their fourth Grand Prize, cementing the song as a landmark work that solidified their national acclaim.