[Touching the Heart] A Collection of Recommended Ballads for Men

trace (of someone/something), semblance, vestige; a lingering image or memory of how someone/something used to beNovelbright

Novelbright – Remnant [Official Music Video]

When you’re heartbroken and feeling down, I recommend trying to sing “Omokage.” It’s a song released by the rock band Novelbright.

This piano-centered ballad portrays the inability to forget an ex and the longing to see them again.

The high notes are beautifully featured, so if you’re good with higher ranges, you’ll be able to make the most of your voice.

It also seems like a great song to dedicate to a hurt friend—it’s sure to be healing.

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yamamoto

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Voice of the Seaurashima tarou

"The Voice of the Sea" Full ver. / Urashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani) [Official]

Here’s the song released in the summer of 2015 from au’s “Santaro Series,” in which Kenta Kiritani, playing Urashima Taro, sings of Princess Otohime.

The composition is by BEGIN’s Miyuki Shimabukuro, and it’s crafted as an Okinawan-inspired piece with the soothing tones of the sanshin.

Incidentally, it’s said that Kiritani himself plays the sanshin, which is pretty impressive.

Also, while piano is often used for ballads, the combination of piano and sanshin feels refreshingly new, making the song particularly memorable.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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globeYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spinning Globe

A song by Kenshi Yonezu that evokes the loneliness of parting from someone precious and the hope of stepping into a new world.

Released in July 2023, this piece was written as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film The Boy and the Heron (How Do You Live?).

Born from five years of exchanges with director Hayao Miyazaki, the work reflects a renewed look at one’s path and a resolute will to move forward into the future.

Its lyrics, which honestly express feelings kept in the heart, gently encourage those who are trying to move on after difficult experiences.

SharonOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Sharon [Official Video]

This song is the one that resonates at the heart of the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Mountain Doctor.” Released in July 2024, it is also included on the album “Rejoice.” It portrays the frustration and deep love of a protagonist who often finds themselves out of sync with someone important amid hectic days, and as you listen, you may feel as though it reflects your own experience.

This work carries a profound sense of guilt born from caring for someone, along with gratitude for being supported, all set to a warm melody—an incredibly moving piece.

If you feel overwhelmed by daily life and unable to spend as much time as you’d like with someone you cherish, this is a song you should definitely listen to.

NonfictionHirai Ken

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

With a voice that shakes the soul, Ken Hirai delivers a moving song that reflects both the light and shadow of life.

This work carries a powerful message, created by deeply reading the drama’s script and layering it with his own experience of losing someone irreplaceable.

Its questions about a harsh reality—and its affirmation of living on nonetheless—stir the hearts of listeners.

Written in 2017 as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Little Giant,” it was also included that same year on the best-of album “Ken Hirai Singles Best Collection Utabaka 2.” Sing this song—laden with earnest emotion—during karaoke with someone important to you, and you’ll surely share an unforgettable moment that resonates deeply.

Unrequited loveSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Unrequited Love” MV

SUPER BEAVER’s in-show song for NHK’s late-night drama “Vanilla na Mainichi” delivers a powerful rendition of aching, unrequited love that truly stirs the heart.

It’s a gem of a ballad where a melody that gently cradles a faint yearning blends beautifully with subtly warm lyrics.

First released digitally on March 7, 2025, and included on the single “Kataomoi / Namida no Shoutai,” out March 12, the track enriches the drama’s world alongside its main theme, “Namida no Shoutai.” With tender, emotional soundscapes and the band’s signature straightforward message, this heartwarming song keeps you company in those quiet moments when you secretly think of someone you love.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

This is a renowned song that has continued to resonate with many as an anthem celebrating life’s new beginnings.

Originally released in September 1980 on the album “Kampai,” it vividly depicts a celebratory scene lit by candlelight and carries a warm message of encouragement for a friend taking their first step forward.

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s powerful vocals deliver hope and courage for the future.

In 1988, it was re-recorded and released as a single, becoming a major hit that reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

In the early 1990s, it was also featured in commercials for Kirin Lager Beer, further boosting its recognition.

To this day, it remains a timeless song passed down through the years, often chosen to convey heartfelt feelings to loved ones at important milestones in life, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.