It cleanses the soul… Great J-pop songs recommended for the yutori generation
When you hear the phrase “a good song,” what comes to mind?
Since Japanese people tend to place a lot of importance on lyrics, many of you might imagine songs with great words.
Of course, if the composition itself isn’t quite there, the message of the lyrics won’t really land, so the melody and overall tone are also crucial factors.
This time, we’ve put together a list of great J-POP tracks aimed at the so-called Yutori generation.
They’re mostly songs from the years when the Yutori generation likely spent their youth, so I hope you enjoy them.
- Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
- Songs that lift your spirits and keep you going tomorrow: energizing recommendations for the Yutori generation
- Packed with masterpieces! Karaoke songs recommended for women of the Yutori generation
- Now karaoke isn’t scary! Easy-to-sing songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- Recommended for the Yutori generation! Tear-jerking masterpieces from the J-pop scene
- Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart
- A number I’d recommend to the yutori generation—one I’d like women to sing
- Good songs recommended for people in their 50s: classic and popular J-pop tracks.
- Gen Z listeners, take note! Great songs that color the J-pop scene
- A lineup of classic hits! Karaoke songs recommended for the yutori generation
- Memories come flooding back! Graduation songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- Bittersweet feelings come rushing back! Recommended love songs for the Yutori generation
- Spring songs to color the season of meetings and partings—recommended for the Yutori generation
It cleanses the soul... Great J-POP songs recommended for the Yutori generation (21–30)
Life is wonderfulRickie-G
Set to a soothing reggae rhythm, this song celebrates the joys of everyday life and the wonder of living.
Rickie-G’s warm vocals gently embrace meetings and farewells along the journey, as well as the preciousness of days spent with a loved one.
Featured on the November 2006 album “Life is wonderful,” the track is also known for its tie-in with Fuji TV’s “Terrace House.” Its unique sound, blending acoustic elements with a soulful melody, is perfect for long trips or when you’re on your way to a new place.
It’s a song that gently gives you a push when you’re at a turning point in life or about to take a new step forward.
life hackVaundy
A pop tune with a refreshing melody that captures the warmth and excitement of romance.
The lyrics deftly express subtle emotions, and the gentle vocals, paired with an urban sound, create a pleasant atmosphere.
Showcasing Vaundy’s signature blend of diverse genres, the track was released in March 2020 and included on the album “strobo.” It drew a huge response and was later featured as the CM song for GLOBAL WORK in September 2022.
With its tender, enveloping melody and reflections on everyday discoveries and delicate shifts of feeling, this piece is perfect for relaxing at home.
Its stylish vibe is sure to help you unwind.
Soul-cleansing... Great J-POP songs recommended for the Yutori Generation (31–40)
FlowerFuji Kaze
A song gently resonating with the fragility and preciousness of life has been delivered by Fujii Kaze.
Like the life of a flower, it sings—carried by warm vocals and piano-woven melodies—of the belief that a human life, too, holds its own brilliance.
Released in October 2023 as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “The Flower I Love Most,” the piece pairs stylish sound with a delicate portrayal of how, even amid life’s doubts and struggles, we continue to seek inner beauty.
The music video, filmed in the Australian desert, symbolically expresses themes of life and death, and rebirth, leaving a lingering resonance in the viewer’s heart.
It’s a song I highly recommend for those who wish to look into the essence of things or quietly face themselves.
DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE
Born from encounters with the younger generation, the emotional vocals kindle a warm light in our hearts.
This gentle message song from Mrs.
GREEN APPLE stands beside those who feel lost or anxious as they search for their own path.
Released in January 2025, the piece was performed together with 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation as the theme song for NHK General’s special program “18 Festival.” It portrays the importance of being true to oneself and cherishing bonds with those around us, carried by a catchy melody.
It’s a song that will surely give you a push when you want to take a positive step forward or reaffirm your true self.
Tropical TherapyONE OK ROCK
A song that sings of the longing for healing in a tropical paradise, wishing for the liberation of the soul.
Paired with ONE OK ROCK’s signature powerful sound, the heartfelt desire to escape everyday stress resonates deeply.
Through vocalist Taka’s soaring voice, the yearning to flee to a paradise and the glimmer of hope are beautifully expressed.
Featured on the album “DETOX,” this track centers on the theme of freeing oneself from inner conflict and anxiety, offering comfort to listeners.
It’s a perfect song to soothe your heart when you’re worn out by work or relationships, and it’s also great for a drive.
gardenFuji Kaze
Fujii Kaze’s song gently embraces the impermanence of life and the bonds between people through the changing seasons.
His soft, gospel-tinged vocals and piano tones sink deeply into the heart.
The track is included on the album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” released in March 2022, and was also featured in NatureLab’s “Laundrin” TV commercial.
Its beautiful music video, filmed at ACAO FOREST in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, also drew attention.
This gem of a song offers solace to those who, even while carrying sadness and loneliness, wish to keep looking forward.
Take some time alone to really listen—you may find yourself moved to tears.
Make It CountINI
A song filled with a warm message that gently accompanies the listener’s heart.
Performed by INI, it was released in January 2025 and chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Do I Even Stand a Chance at Love?”.
With a medium‑tempo, pop sound perfectly matched by velvety vocals, this number shines.
The lyrics, expressing the fragility and preciousness of youth, remind us of the importance of the fleeting moment called “now.” When you feel lost in everyday life or want to find meaning in your own journey, why not give this track a listen?