Masterpieces that sing about various lives. Recommended popular songs.

Life is full of ups and downs.Shimakura Chiyoko

Life Has Its Ups and Downs – Chiyoko Shimakura – Guitar Solo Cover

Chiyoko Shimakura, one of the leading singers of the Showa-era kayōkyoku scene, released an enormous number of songs—said to be around 2,000.

However, there are also many tracks that were never included on albums and songs for which no recordings remain, so it’s considered difficult to determine the exact number of pieces in her repertoire.

Among the standout hits from the later part of Shimakura’s long career is “Jinsei Iroiro” (“Life Has Its Ups and Downs”).

Unlike an enka-style ballad, this slightly up-tempo song weaves together the subtle emotions found in life and resonated deeply with many listeners.

Reading between the lines, it seems to say: life throws all sorts of things at you, but let’s keep going anyway.

In a long life, having various worries is proof that we’re alive—so perhaps we should laugh them off and carry on.

Love RadiantMisora Hibari

Love Radiant

Hibari Misora began singing in the burnt-out ruins of Tokyo shortly after the war.

Debuting at age 12, the pressure and nerves she faced must have been far greater than we can imagine.

Though she seemed larger than life, she was actually only 147 cm tall.

Perhaps what radiated from her was a “human greatness” that transcended celebrity aura.

This song has something in common with Chiyoko Shimakura’s ‘Jinsei Iroiro’ (Life Has Its Ups and Downs), calmly recounting both the harshness and the kindness found along each person’s path in life.

And yet, in the end, it sings that life is something joyful.

It’s a song we need in life—one that reminds us that having ups and downs is simply normal.

biting my lipyoshida takurou

biting my lip

Released as a single in 1982, this song was written specifically as the theme for the film Detective Story, starring Tetsuya Takeda.

Its lyrics, written entirely in the Hiroshima dialect, mirror the protagonist—awkward yet striving earnestly—and stir the listener’s heart.

The emotions expressed in unadorned words carry a unique warmth and melancholy that standard Japanese can’t quite capture.

The vocals, which swallow frustration and love while gazing straight ahead with quiet strength, are quintessentially Takuro Yoshida.

It’s a deeply moving masterpiece you’ll want to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or are grappling with feelings too complex to put into words.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

This is a signature song by the folk duo Yuzu, known for its moving melodies that linger in the heart and lyrics that paint the radiant moments of life.

It’s a warm piece that gently embraces everyone’s dreams and the joy and hardship felt along the journey.

Released in July 2004, it was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s broadcast of the Athens Olympics.

It is deeply etched in many people’s memories alongside the moment when Japan’s men’s gymnastics team won gold for the first time in 28 years in Athens.

We recommend this work as an encouraging anthem for those who are putting in the effort or about to take a new step, filled with kindness like words of support.

The NightsAvicii

Avicii – The Nights

Released consecutively with “The Days,” this song weaves reflections on life’s hardships into a promise between father and son.

The part that goes, “He said, one day you’ll leave this world behind~,” is often sung along to in clubs, creating a strong sense of unity and excitement.

A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly

Superfly “A Bouquet With Love” Music Video

Superfly originally started as a musical duo consisting of guitarist Koichi Tabo and vocalist Shiho Ochi.

After Tabo shifted to working behind the scenes, focusing on songwriting and production, the project has continued as Ochi’s solo endeavor.

This song, released in 2008, is still frequently heard in various places today—during emotional moments on TV programs, as background music at wedding venues, and more.

While the lyrics never explicitly mention marriage or a proposal, they evoke two people who, despite taking a roundabout path, ultimately come together.

With Ochi, Tabo, and Junji Ishiwatari all contributing to the lyrics, it also feels like happiness is being portrayed from multiple angles.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at the very peak of life’s happiness.

SymphonyHirai Dai

Hirai Dai / Symphony (Music Video)

Characterized by warm, heartfelt vocals and a grand orchestral arrangement, this gem of a love ballad gives voice to the universal longing for a hero and the resolve to protect the ones we cherish.

Infused with Dai Hirai’s perspective as a father, it carries a powerful message brimming with hope and love for the future.

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – The Movie, it marked Hirai’s first theme for a live-action film.

The song is also included on his best-of album LOVE＋PEACE, released in May of the same year.

This track is perfect for new beginnings with someone special, pivotal moments in life, or any time you need the courage to face forward.

Wrapped in its warm vocals, it’s sure to help you take that first step toward tomorrow.