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

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

Here’s a song released in 2019 by Masaki Suda, who is also popular as an actor.

Kenshi Yonezu wrote, composed, and produced it; following their 2017 collaboration on “Gray and Blue,” this standout ballad gives the impression that Suda’s voice and expressive power further amplify Yonezu’s world.

It was used as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World” starring Tori Matsuzaka, and became a hot topic, with Suda making his first appearance at the 70th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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I was only looking at you.To Be Continued

To Be Continued — I Was Only Looking at You

It was released in 1994 as To Be Continued’s ninth single.

The song was used as an insert track in the TBS drama “If Wishes Could Come True” and reached No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a classic ballad whose lyrics overflow with the feeling of newly cherishing someone dear.

I for YouLUNA SEA

Luna Sea – I For You

“I for You” is LUNA SEA’s 11th single, released in July 1998.

At the time of its release, it was featured as the theme song for the drama “God, Please Give Me More Time,” which drew attention and became a hit.

At the end of 1998, they also performed this song on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It is a rock ballad themed around love.

#302Hirai Ken

Ken Hirai '#302' MUSIC VIDEO

Here is a song by Ken Hirai that sings about events that could happen in an everyday karaoke box.

It became the theme song for the drama “4-Minute Marigold.” It’s said that there was a real shop that served as the model and that Hirai’s own experiences are included in the lyrics, which makes you think, “So Hirai goes to karaoke boxes too,” and feel surprised.

Since it’s a song about a karaoke box, the first-press limited edition also includes an instrumental version without vocals, a fun feature for those who want to sing it themselves.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Lion HeartSMAP

Lion Heart - SMAP (Lion Heart sung by a woman) Theme song of 'Food Fight' COVER by Uru

Released in August 2000, this song is one of SMAP’s signature tracks—a ballad that sings of deep feelings for a loved one.

It was also used as the theme song for the NTV drama “Food Fight.” The lyrics include phrases like “to protect you” and “you taught me love,” expressing devoted affection for someone precious.

With SMAP’s characteristically warm vocals and a melody that resonates deeply, it’s a song that has moved many listeners.

The single topped the Oricon chart and remained ranked for 45 weeks.

It’s a gentle, compassionate piece that soothes the heart of a man who has gone through painful experiences.

Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – “Sakura (2019)” Music Video

When it comes to Naotaro Moriyama’s signature songs, yes—Sakura.

The 2019 version of this hugely popular track features gentle piano tones that soothe our weary hearts.

Moriyama’s mature, beautiful vocals and the refined performance draw you in before you know it.

It proves that the king of Heisei-era cherry blossom songs remains just as vital in the Reiwa era.

Heroineback number

back number “Heroine” Music Video

It was released in 2015 as back number’s 11th single.

The song was used for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” commercial, and the limited edition cover features Suzu Hirose, who appears in the ad.

It’s a beautiful ballad whose warmth of longing for a loved one seeps into the heart on a cold winter’s day.