Moody Japanese classics: recommended popular songs

dearestFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Beloved (Full ver.)

Produced in October 2008 as the theme song for the film “The Devotion of Suspect X,” this gem of a ballad portrays deep affection and the ache of parting.

While anticipating farewell to a dreamlike presence, it sings of the fragility and beauty of continuing to love.

The pure love that Tetsuya Ishigami, a character in the story, holds for Yasuko Hanaoka is expressed through the delicate words crafted by Masaharu Fukuyama, and the song was also used in Toshiba’s LCD TV “REGZA” commercial.

As the unit KOH+ with Kou Shibasaki, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Fukuyama later included his own version on the album “Zankyo.” It is a supreme masterpiece that accompanies adult romance—perfect for quietly savoring a drink in a night lounge.

Mary Janetsunoda☆hiro

(PV) Hiro Tsunoda – Merry Jane (NHK).mpg

Hiro Tsunoda is one of Japan’s leading soul singers.

His appeal, above all, lies in his incredibly deep voice—so deep you’d hardly believe he’s Japanese.

It has astounding richness, and if you only listen to the voice, it can sound like a foreign singer.

Among his songs, the one I especially recommend is “Mary Jane.” It’s a classic, no explanation needed.

With its mix of sweetness and poignancy, this track brings out the full potential of his low register.

Be sure to give it a listen.

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Ryo

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atonementTeresa Ten

atonement

“Tsugunai” is a signature song by Teresa Teng, the Taiwan-born singer who was beloved and known as the Diva of Asia.

Covered by many artists, this song is likely familiar not only to older listeners but also to many younger people who have heard it somewhere.

From a woman’s perspective, it portrays the regret and heartache of a couple who have resolved to part ways.

It might be nice to immerse yourself in this song while quietly reminiscing about past love.

A timeless classic—wonderful to sing and wonderful to simply listen to.

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A street corner where even lovers get wetNakamura Masatoshi

A street corner where even lovers get wet

The biggest hit song by the renowned actor Masatoshi Nakamura, “Koibito mo Nurueru Machikado.” Even from the title, it feels pretty sexy.

The melody is quite sensual—not lewd, but exuding a mature allure.

It’s a smooth, nighttime-appropriate track for grown-ups.

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The one I still love even after we’ve broken upRosu Indiosu & Shiruvia

Los Indios & Silvia - Even If We Break Up, I Still Love You / LOS INDIOS & Silvia Wakaretemo Sukina Hito

This classic duet is a staple in Japanese snack-bar karaoke.

Listening to it brings back memories of Japan’s bubble economy at its peak.

It’s fair to call this song a representative example of mood kayō (mood歌謡).

Although Sylvia sadly passed away in 2010 after battling illness, Los Indios have continued their activities since then.

Scorpio womanMikawa Ken’ichi

Hatsune Miku Kenichi Mikawa Scorpio Woman

Kenichi Mikawa’s “Woman of Scorpio” is well-known as a song that made a comeback thanks to Korokke’s impersonation.

It’s a song that gains even more impact when sung by Mikawa than by a woman.

Listening to the lyrics again, the content is quite frightening, but Mikawa’s persona keeps it from feeling too heavy.

So sad I can’t bear itZa Fōku Kurusedāzu

So Sad I Can't Bear It — The Folk Crusaders (1968)

With its incredibly gentle singing voice and melody, it almost brings me to tears when I listen.

When something sad happens, I find myself humming it without thinking.

After singing it, I feel as if my heart has been cleansed.

It seems important to say “I’m sad” when you’re feeling sad.

I also recommend the version sung by Mikako Tabe in the film Miss Granny; it’s really good.