A classic medium-tempo ballad

Let’s count your kissesKoyanagi Yuki

Let's count your kisses {Furū} | Monique Dehany

“Anata no Kiss wo Kazoemashou ~You were mine~” is Yuki Koyanagi’s debut single, released in 1999.

Her overwhelming vocal ability, soulful voice, and somewhat non-Japanese looks left a strong impression.

ParadiseHirai Ken

Paradise (Ken Hirai) / Ayano

This “Rakuen” is Ken Hirai’s eighth single, released in 2000.

The song was a hit, wasn’t it? I think it was one of the tracks that sparked his breakthrough.

With R&B elements and a very mature, seductive melody, it was a song that matched Hirai’s image perfectly.

Moon DropsRUI

Tsukino Shizuku

Speaking of RUI, it’s the stage name actress Kou Shibasaki uses for her music activities.

The song she sings, “Tsuki no Shizuku” (Moon’s Droplet), is a beautiful medium-tempo ballad.

Her sweet, wistful vocals are striking.

It also gained popularity as the theme song for the film “Yomigaeri” (Resurrection).

Song of LoveKōda Kumi

Kumi Koda / “Ai no Uta” (from the new album “WINTER of LOVE”)

Koda Kumi is a female musician who sometimes sings with a hard edge and other times with a gentle touch.

That multifaceted nature is the secret to her popularity.

“Ai no Uta” showcases the gentler side of Koda, and it’s a superb medium-tempo ballad.

36.5kobore

"36.5" (kobore x Film "Koko de no Hanashi" Short Lyrics Video)

A guitar rock band from Fuchu, Tokyo, kobore has written a brand-new medium-tempo ballad as the theme song for the film “Koko de no Hanashi.” The song gently expresses each person’s own warmth without trying to be something it’s not, filled with kindness that supports those doing their best in the rush of everyday life.

It was released digitally on November 8, 2024, and is included on their 5th album, “FLARE,” released on November 27 of the same year.

This is kobore’s first song written specifically for a film.

Vocalist and guitarist Takeru Sato reportedly worked closely with the director throughout the production.

It’s a recommended track for when you’re worn out by daily life or want to be reminded of the importance of living true to yourself.

To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Music Video (Short ver.)

Speaking of Kiroro, they’re a female duo that truly defined an era.

They’re also well-known for their medium-tempo ballads.

They have several signature songs, but this time I’d like to introduce the classic “Mirai e” (“To the Future”).

It’s a textbook example of a medium-tempo ballad.

Poem of SunlightLe Couple

Hidamari no Uta / Le Couple (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

It’s written as “Le Couple” and pronounced “Rukupuru.” The name has a cute ring to it, and their signature song is the classic medium-tempo ballad Hidamari no Uta (A Sunny Spot’s Poem).

Its heartbreaking lyrics are especially captivating—so moving that you might find yourself in tears as you listen.