A classic medium-tempo ballad

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

A medium ballad featuring lyrics that offer support for love and life—words that sit close to the listener’s heart—yet with a slightly more up-tempo, brighter feel than a typical ballad.

Isn’t it the perfect choice for when you want to listen to ballads but are in the mood for something a bit more light and lively?

In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of recommended medium ballads!

There are so many medium ballads that really hit you in the heart, so be sure to listen carefully.

It’s also great to listen while reading the lyrics!

Great medium-tempo ballads (1971–1980)

PRIDEImai Miki

Miki Imai - PRIDE (Live at Cadogan Hall, London, 2016)

PRIDEImai Miki

This “PRIDE” is Miki Imai’s 12th single, released in 1996.

It was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Doc.” The song was also written, composed, and produced by Tomoyasu Hotei, who later became her husband.

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First LoveUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – First Love

First LoveUtada Hikaru

This “First Love” is Hikaru Utada’s third single, released in 1999.

The song was included on the album of the same title, “First Love,” and it’s astonishing that the album recorded an incredible 7.65 million copies sold.

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

Speaking of FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY’S, they’re a hip-hop group known for numerous medium-tempo ballads.

Their song “Ato Hitotsu” is also known as the theme song for TV Asahi’s “Netto Koshien.” It’s a moving track.

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Masterpieces of medium-tempo ballads (81–90)

I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'I Miss You, I Miss You (short ver.)'

I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana

Speaking of Kana Nishino, she’s a female musician who can deliver a powerful singing voice that you’d never expect from her cute looks.

Her lyrics stand out as if they speak for the feelings of real, everyday young women.

Her song “Aitakute Aitakute” is also a wonderful track.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced plenty of recommended medium-tempo ballads.

There were so many great songs with just the right groove and lyrics that really hit home! From love-themed tracks to motivational anthems and nostalgic tunes, we picked songs perfect for a variety of moments—so find the one that best matches your mood right now.