RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

Masaki Makihara’s famous and popular songs

Noriyuki Makihara is a singer-songwriter who has been a major force in the J-POP scene since the 1990s, and his songs continue to be loved to this day.

His music is captivating for its relatable lyrics about love and everyday life, paired with stylish, cool arrangements.

And when talking about his appeal, you can’t overlook his singing voice.

His beautifully soaring high tones are impressive enough to wow you after just a brief listen.

In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of his classic tracks.

From timeless favorites to hidden gems, be sure to give them a listen.

Noriyuki Makihara’s Masterpieces and Popular Songs (11–20)

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Far Away, Far Away – Noriyuki Makihara (Full)
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

It’s a track from the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” and surprisingly it was never released as a single.

After the album came out, it drew attention through several self-covers and appearances in commercials, and it’s often performed live—now it’s become one of his signature songs.

It’s said to have been written with a friend back in his hometown in mind, and it vividly conjures up nostalgic scenes.

LOVE LETTERMakihara Noriyuki

It’s a deep-cut album track that was never released as a single, yet it enjoys immense popularity among fans.

It’s a bittersweet unrequited-love song about someone who’s leaving for far away, marked by four-on-the-floor piano and an arrangement that feels both light and wistful, evoking the scenery seen from a departing train.

The overall vocal range spans F#3 to A4, with the bridge (C section) reaching the highest and most climactic notes.

The melody line is simple, so even those unfamiliar with the song can pick it up quickly.

Its coming-of-age vibe makes it easy to sing at karaoke without feeling heavy.

Highly recommended.

ANSWERMakihara Noriyuki

Noriyuki Makihara “ANSWER” with lyrics
ANSWERMakihara Noriyuki

I once saw a program where Noriyuki Makihara performed this song with an orchestra, and it made me realize that a song with true substance doesn’t get overshadowed by the grandeur of an orchestra.

The song says that while there may be unstable periods in the feelings you have for someone, true love exists beyond that.

It’s a track I’d love for you to listen to when you’re feeling tired.

Two WishesMakihara Noriyuki

It’s a song that reflects Makihara’s signature lyrical world—rather than a flashy love song, it cherishes the small moments of everyday life—and it’s a heartwarming track that wishes for the simple daily happiness shared with a loved one.

It has a good groove, so if you sing it rhythmically, both your chest voice and falsetto should come out comfortably.

Matching the timing is important; when your body’s groove and the moment you release your voice snap into place, your voice will come out naturally without needing to belt.

Also, be mindful of quickness, and try singing with a slightly accented attack at the start of each phrase.

North Wind ~May It Reach You~Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “North Wind ~May It Reach You~” (MV) [6th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara/Kitakaze - kiminitodokimasuyouni
North Wind ~May It Reach You~Makihara Noriyuki

Released in 1992 as the sixth single.

The music video is so young (lol)! Beyond the lyrics, the choral intro and the sounds of bells and organ evoke a winter romance.

For a time, Noriyuki Makihara even named it as his favorite work.

MemoryMakihara Noriyuki

Memory / Noriyuki Makihara cover with lyrics, Nivea Kao commercial song, included in “Design & Reason.”
MemoryMakihara Noriyuki

I used to hear it often as the commercial jingle for Kao’s Nivea hand cream.

The lyrics, which seem to be inspired by hand cream, fit perfectly and the song comes together as a light, typical Makihara pop tune.

The affectionate story, evoking the feeling of hands that once touched and connected with one’s mother, is simply lovely.

It’s a fresh track packed with the feelings of “thank you” and “I look forward to our continued journey together.”

Noriyuki Makihara’s Masterpieces and Popular Songs (21–30)

Let’s hold handsMakihara Noriyuki

Let’s hold hands (Noriyuki Makihara). Let’s hold hands.
Let's hold handsMakihara Noriyuki

This song was written in September 2011 for the project “Te wo Tsunagou Daisakusen,” which aimed to bring smiles to areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Its warm lyrics center on themes of bonds and kindness, and the project’s official website publishes the lyrics and sheet music.

The song itself has a bouncing rhythm and a light feel, so it’s best to sing it in a way that doesn’t get too heavy.

Try moving your body as if lightly bouncing upward while you sing.

It might also work to toss off the word endings, as if flicking them away.