[Mr.Children] Best Masterpiece Selections Highly Praised by Mr.Children Fans

If I Could Become a StarMr.Children

Mr.Children “If I Could Become a Star” “HOME” TOUR 2007 -in the field-

It’s a classic song that captures the resolve to leave a familiar town in pursuit of a dream, along with the bittersweet feeling of parting that comes with it.

The upbeat, powerful melody that seems to give listeners a push forward is especially memorable.

It was included on the album “Kind of Love,” released in December 1992.

Used as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Wakamono no Subete,” it won the hearts of many.

It’s also well known as a collaboration between Yohito Teraoka of JUN SKY WALKER(S) and Kazutoshi Sakurai.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when starting a new chapter in life or taking on something new.

Even though it was never released as a single, it has remained a live staple beloved by fans for many years.

CROSS ROADMr.Children

Mr.Children 「CROSS ROAD」 MUSIC VIDEO

An early masterpiece whose lyrics—interweaving the ache of a love’s end and lingering attachment—resonate deeply atop Sakurai’s pop-tinged melodies.

Released in November 1993 as the band’s fourth single, it reached living rooms nationwide as the theme song for the NTV drama “Dōsōkai” (Class Reunion).

Despite its initial chart position, it became a long-running hit, earning the band their first million-seller and later appearing on the album “Atomic Heart,” making it a landmark work.

The song likens life’s turning points and moments of doubt to a crossroads, and many listeners likely find their memories from that time returning with each listen.

Its beautiful melody and the harmony of the band’s sound are superb—one of those tracks you want to sink into when you’re feeling a bit sentimental.

SimpleMr.Children

Mr.Children Simple

This song appears in the middle of the album Discovery, released in February 1999.

While the album as a whole leans further into experimental rock, this track stands out with its simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar.

Though it wasn’t released as a single, it has earned overwhelming support among fans as a hidden gem.

The lyrics, penned by Kazutoshi Sakurai, are written in unadorned language and carry a warmth that seems to affirm feelings that look far into the years ahead, like a natural, steady breath.

The fact that it was performed again on the 2024 tour for the first time in about 25 years is proof of its enduring popularity.

It’s a high-quality, soul-stirring mid-tempo number—perfect for a quiet night with someone special or for moments when you want to set down the burdens of your heart.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Mr.Children “Endless Journey” MUSIC VIDEO

When you lose your way on the journey called life, Mr.Children’s “Owarinaki Tabi” (“Endless Journey”) gives you a powerful push forward.

Released in October 1998 as their 15th single, it became widely known as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Naguru Onna.” It captures the intensity of the period when the band fully restarted after a hiatus, condensing a will to move ahead—despite inner conflict—into a lengthy track that runs nearly seven minutes.

Also included on the acclaimed album “DISCOVERY,” the song’s lyrics by Kazutoshi Sakurai and its gradually mounting sound kindle a fire in the listener’s heart.

It’s a classic that stands beside those striving toward their dreams or hoping to break through their current situation, giving them the courage to take the next step.

whistlingMr.Children

Mr.Children「NOT FOUND」Mr.Children［(an imitation) blood orange］Tour

With unadorned words and a warm melody that resonate in your heart, this is a supreme love song filled with Mr.Children’s tenderness.

Released as a single in January 2000, it’s also regarded as an important work that marked the band’s entry into the 2000s.

Remarkably, it topped the Oricon charts despite having no tie-ins with TV dramas or commercials.

It was later included on the acclaimed album “Q,” and the song enjoys overwhelming fan support—ranking first in a fan club poll for “songs you want to hear live.” It’s perfect for moments when you want to savor the beauty of everyday life rather than flashy spectacles, or for calm situations like walking hand in hand with someone dear.

So please take your time and listen while picturing the scenes painted by the lyrics!

Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children

Mr.Children "Tomorrow never knows" Tour 2015 Incomplete Live

With introspective yet hopeful lyrics and a beautiful melody that resonates deeply, this is one of Mr.Children’s most iconic songs.

Beginning with that unmistakable piano intro that almost everyone has heard at least once, the track was released in November 1994 as their sixth single.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Wakamono no Subete” (All About Young People), it achieved an astounding total sales of approximately 2.766 million copies.

It became such a cultural phenomenon that many listeners likely remember it alongside scenes from the drama.

Embracing life’s uncertainties while empowering you to move forward, this is a timeless classic you’ll want to listen to especially when you’re feeling lost or anxious.

GIFTMr.Children

Mr.Children “GIFT” from 30th Anniversary Tour Entrance to the Half-Century – 2022.6.19 YANMAR STADIUM NAGAI –

It’s a moving Mr.Children number that blends a tenderness that sinks into the heart with the grand scale woven by the strings.

While asking about the infinite colors that lie between black and white and the unique brilliance each of us possesses, the lyrics affirm the value of every individual beyond wins, losses, and superiority—embodying Kazutoshi Sakurai’s warm gaze.

Released as a single in July 2008 and included on the album SUPERMARKET FANTASY, this song wrapped all of Japan in emotion as NHK’s theme for the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics.

It was also used in 2012 as the CM song for Shiseido’s “MAQuillAGE.” It’s a masterpiece like a “gift” to every listener—perfect not only for expressing gratitude to someone, but also for those moments when you want to acknowledge and embrace yourself.