Masterpieces that sing about various lives. Recommended popular songs.

TOKYOYUI

YUI – TOKYO (Official Audio)

This song vividly portrays the feelings of young people stepping into a new chapter of life.

Based on YUI’s experience of moving to Tokyo at age 17, it was released in February 2006.

Carried by the warm tones of an acoustic guitar, the lyrics express a complex mix of anxiety and hope.

Released as the lead single from the album “FROM ME TO YOU,” it reached No.

15 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a perfect track for those seeking the courage to dive into a new environment, as well as for those seeing off someone important.

YUI’s down-to-earth vocals are sure to gently give you a supportive push forward.

Tokyokujira

Kujira – Tokyo (Official Video)

This song captures both the excitement and anxiety of starting life in a new place.

Released by Kujira in February 2023, it appears on the album “Yasai-shitsu” (Vegetable Drawer).

It carefully portrays the protagonist’s determination to live authentically in the vast metropolis of Tokyo.

You can feel their admiration for the city’s glamour, as well as the loneliness and impatience that haunt them.

It’s a perfect track for anyone moving or beginning a new chapter.

Kujira’s warm vocals are sure to give you the courage to dive into a new environment.

I don’t mind being unhappy for the rest of my life.mafumafu

I don’t mind being unhappy for the rest of my life – Mafumafu

After a hiatus, Mafumafu returned for the first time in about a year with this powerful, heartfelt track.

Woven from his own experiences and inner struggles, it showcases the delicate emotional expression that is uniquely his.

The lyrics vividly portray the absurdities of life and feelings of self-denial, resonating deeply with listeners.

Coupled with his distinctive high-tone vocals, the song as a whole delivers a profoundly moving experience.

Since its release on YouTube in June 2022, it has sparked significant reaction and become a hot topic among fans.

It’s a song to listen to when you’re troubled by life and find yourself standing still.

It will surely stay close to your heart.

Because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime lifeMatsubara Nobue

Nobue Matsubara “Because It’s Only One Life” MV [Official]

Released in January 2024, this work is a masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which emphasize cherishing every moment of life and singing about the courage to face hardships, leave a strong impression.

Nobue Matsubara’s powerful vocals gently give listeners a supportive push.

This ambitious piece pairs Matsubara—an accomplished force in the enka world—with Kaoru Ito, known for “Love Is Over.” It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you’re at a crossroads in life or hesitating before a new challenge.

It will surely give you the strength to move your life forward in a positive direction.

Cape Tappi of the WindFukumoto Masaru

Cape Tappi of the Wind

Masaru Fukumoto’s piece, with the resonant tones of the Tsugaru shamisen, strikes a chord in the heart.

Released in January 2024, this song is set in wind-swept Cape Tappi, beautifully singing of lost love and hope.

It carefully portrays emotions wavering between parting and reunion, sure to move listeners deeply.

You can also feel Fukumoto’s profound affection for his home of Iwate Prefecture.

Alongside the coupling track “Mother’s Back,” it’s a song we hope will reach those living away from their hometowns or those who have experienced farewells with loved ones.

When your heart feels frozen, it might just give you the push to face forward again.

The Drunkard Has ReturnedZa Fōku Kurusedāzu

The Drunkard Has Returned 2017 REMASTER

With a high-pitched voice and humor-laden musical expression, a fantastical story unfolds that shuttles between heaven and earth.

While satirically conveying the dangers of drunk driving, its innovative musicality—woven with nods to the Beatles, the Heart Sutra, and even Beethoven—is captivating.

Released by The Folk Crusaders in December 1967, the song became the first million-seller in Oricon chart history and was even adapted into a Toei film.

Far from sounding like a track born to fill out an album, this masterpiece combines experimental sound with social consciousness, making it a recommended tune for those who want to savor life’s subtleties along with a good laugh.

Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Que Sera Sera” Official Music Video

A heartwarming song with an emotionally rich story and a universal message has arrived from Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

Titled with a Spanish phrase meaning “what will be, will be,” the piece offers gentle support and strong encouragement to those who strive every day.

Singing about the importance of self-esteem and self-acceptance, it’s a song anyone can relate to.

Released in April 2023 and written as the theme song for the TV drama “Sunday Night Probably…,” it won the 65th Japan Record Award in December of the same year.

This was a first-time achievement for Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, who had not previously had a major drama tie-in.

It’s a song that gives you a gentle nudge forward when you’re struggling with work or life and feel like you might stop in your tracks.

Recommended for those who want to keep moving forward while valuing their true selves and for anyone seeking the courage to take a new step.