A Man’s Way of Life: Songs of Men. Masterpieces packed with manly valor and aesthetics.
We’ve gathered a collection of classic songs packed with the aesthetics of manhood.
Across every genre—rock, pop, enka—you’ll find the way men live sung about in many forms.
Men may usually keep things inside, yet hold firm convictions; their willingness to take on challenges, or conversely, the strength to face their own vulnerabilities, also feels distinctly masculine.
A broad-minded generosity and single-minded devotion can be especially attractive from a woman’s perspective, too.
In this article, we introduce many timeless tracks that touch on the path of a man’s life and on love.
Every song is valiant and stirring.
Music by men that even men admire—let’s listen closely and take it all in!
A Man’s Way of Life: Songs of Men. Masterpieces packed with manly bravery and aesthetics (1–10)
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
A representative song by Elephant Kashimashi that stirs up passionate feelings while gazing at the shining moon, it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Because It’s a Night When the Moon Shines.” Though it features a gentle sound incorporating acoustic guitar tones, it carries a power that seems to express a quiet passion within the heart.
Like the moon shining in the night sky, it conveys a strong will that evokes the determination to one day become someone who shines as well, and the hope to take steady steps forward.
Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru
Takahara Pistol’s voice and singing style are captivating.
If I could sing as compellingly as he does, I’d feel like the best man alive.
It’s a song where the sweat and grit of manliness feel truly beautiful.
It would be cool to capture that vibe when you sing, but it’s not easy to pull off, so be sure to practice!
dragonflyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
It’s a song that feels like a quiet fire burning deep within, conveying a strong will to overcome adversity.
It was also used as the theme song for the drama Tonbo starring Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi, and is well known as Kazuhiro Kiyohara’s walk-up music.
The lyrics, depicting a young person moving up to Tokyo, are striking; as they endure various hardships in a new place and strive to live strongly in the big city, their determination resonates deeply.
It’s powerful folk rock that teaches the importance of staying true to yourself.
Midnight ExpresswayFurawā Kanpanī
A youthful rock anthem brimming with momentum and emotion, painting a grand portrait of life.
Powerfully delivered by The Flower Companyz, this song radiates a warmth that lights a ray of hope in an uncertain life.
Released in September 2004 as a track on the classic album “Setagaya Yoake Mae” (Before Dawn in Setagaya), it has continued to resonate closely with many hearts.
When you stand at a crossroads, when you feel anxious about the future, and for all who are doing their best to live in the present, this is an encouraging song that will gently push you forward.
Get WildTM NETWORK
The 10th single by TM NETWORK, a three-member music unit that includes music producer Tetsuya Komuro, who has brought forth numerous artists and groups.
Famous as one of TM NETWORK’s signature songs, it was used as the ending theme for the TV anime City Hunter.
The lyrics, which evoke a hard-boiled way of life in the big city, combine with the anime’s storyline to create a cool masculine image.
With a sophisticated sound that felt cutting-edge at the time and a nostalgic melody that lifts your spirits, it’s a timeless masterpiece in J-pop history and a highly popular anime song.
ChampionArisu
It’s one of Alice’s signature songs, evoking images of a valiant man in battle and someone quietly stoking the fire in his heart.
Although it’s a folk song centered on acoustic guitar, its driving sound incorporates rock elements that make it compelling.
The lyrics tell a story with a boxing theme, depicting a champion facing off against a young challenger.
It’s a song that can give you strength, showing someone who, despite feeling the effects of age and decline, throws himself against the obstacles before him with everything he’s got.
sonetACIDMAN
Within its grand melody, this song holds both the resolve to live boldly and a gentle tenderness.
Set against the vast nature of Hokkaido, it portrays life’s joys and sorrows through the moon and stars shining in the night sky, and the falling rain and snow.
Along the journey of chasing dreams, it leaves a deep afterglow that quietly speaks to the importance of living true to oneself.
The track was pre-released by ACIDMAN in December 2024, with the CD following in January 2025.
Chosen as the ending theme for the final episode of WOWOW’s drama “Renzoku Drama W Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Contest Arc,” it is also complemented by striking footage shot on location in Hokkaido by film director Shigeaki Kubo.
When you stand at a crossroads in life or face an important decision, this is a song that will stay close to your heart.