A tear-jerking, hardcore love ballad by a man

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This song, written and composed by singer-songwriter Aimyon, is the B-side to the single “We Did It” released in August 2017.

When Takumi Kitamura performed an acoustic version on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE in March 2020, it sparked renewed buzz, and its total streaming plays surpassed one billion.

The piece portrays lingering attachment and heartache for someone dearly missed, expressing a yearning for a person who has become as free and capricious as a cat.

When you’re worn out from work or relationships, or when memories of a past love resurface, this song is sure to bring you to tears.

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

A life spent feeling like a mistake begins to find meaning through a meeting with someone precious.

Imbued with such a bittersweet yet warm message, this work is a gemlike ballad created by two extraordinarily talented artists, Masaki Suda and Kenshi Yonezu.

Kenshi Yonezu wrote and composed the song especially for Suda, pursuing a piece that could only be expressed through his voice.

Released digitally in May 2019, it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” and is included on the album “LOVE.” When you are suffering from self-denial or inferiority, or when you are lost in life’s choices, this song will surely stay close to your heart.

Star Love LetterTHE BOOM

Love Letter from the Stars / THE BOOM

This is a heartfelt, tear-jerking love ballad for men by BOOM, finished in a way that showcases powerful artistic expressiveness through its expansive vocals and distinctive, commanding voice.

It stands out as a classic, with a stylish mood and deeply resonant lyrics that linger in the ear.

Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu

Yuzu “Ame nochi Hareruya”

It’s a tear-jerking, earnest love ballad by Yuzu, an acoustic and distinctly Japanese duo, boasting outstanding completeness as a work that is simple yet radiates a vibrant presence.

It’s a classic whose refreshing style delivers lyrics that gently resonate in the heart.

balladKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

A love you can’t fulfill—the kind where you want to hold someone tight and pour out your love, but you can’t.

Have you ever had a love like that? There are many reasons a love might be unfulfilled, but whatever the reason, loneliness always comes with it.

Ketsumeishi’s song “Ballad” soothes that lonely feeling.

The emotions of wanting to see someone but being unable to put it into words.

The time spent waiting for a message on your phone, with no guarantee it will ever come.

Each of these things is heartbreaking and squeezes your chest with sorrow.

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MissingKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video]

This is a heartfelt, no-nonsense love ballad by artist Toshinobu Kubota, who has earned immense support for his soulful vocals, refined melodic sense, and stylishness.

Celebrated as a classic, it’s a memorable, universally themed work centered on love.

Cry On Your SmileKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – CRY ON YOUR SMILE [Official Video Short ver.]

This is a renowned ballad that tenderly yet poignantly captures the feelings of seeing a loved one off as they set out toward their dreams.

Released in October 1987, it became a milestone as the artist’s first entry into the Oricon Top 10.

Built on an R&B foundation, its beautiful melody is paired with lyrics filled with such deep affection that you find yourself in tears even within the other person’s smile—listening makes your chest tighten.

The emotionally overflowing ad-libbed outro is breathtaking, conveying irrepressible feelings that bring tears to your eyes.

Chosen as the theme song for the Toho film “Kamitsukitai,” it’s also included on the best-of album “the BADDEST.” When you listen to it as you cheer on someone dear at the start of a new chapter, it feels like a gentle push on the back.