Masterpieces that sing about various lives. Recommended popular songs.

rainbow-coloredayaka

Ayaka / Nijiiro Music Video

A single released by Ayaka in 2014.

It’s a heartwarming number that’s quintessentially Ayaka—tinged with a little bittersweetness.

Many will recognize it as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Hanako to Anne, starring Yuriko Yoshitaka.

As you listen, you’ll find yourself humming along, feeling as cozy as if you were whistling.

It inspires the belief that even if your efforts aren’t rewarded now, someday things will become clear and something new will be born.

Like a rainbow after the rain, this song lights up your heart.

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KEI

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I walked home across the birthday cake.Chatto Monchī

Chatmonchy “I Walked Home Across a Birthday Cake” Music Video

A track included on their fourth album, YOU MORE.

From the title, it feels characteristically Chatmonchy—somewhat mysterious.

While it has a pop vibe, it seems to be about the moment of an ending that will come someday.

It’s a song that evokes the end of life.

The Bird Without WingsSuperfly

Superfly 『The Bird Without Wings』

It’s a song that moved me with its powerful message about loving your true self and living your life no matter what happens—one that made me fall in love with it all over again.

The music video was also shot in nature and has a compelling storyline, so it’s a must-watch.

To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Official Music Video

Kiroro is a female music duo consisting of vocalist Chiharu Tamashiro and pianist Ayano Kinjo.

Along with their own growth, they have left behind a series of hits that came to be called timeless classics of their era.

Their signature songs “Nagaimono” (“Long Time”) and “Mirai e” (“To the Future”) are pieces they have been performing since their indie days.

The song “Mirai e” weaves together, without leaving anything out, a mother’s love seen from her perspective and the love I direct toward my mother.

Everyone grows into adulthood after going through a phase when parents feel overbearing.

I believe the lyrics, which capture that common experience, resonate with so many people.

If you were to put your gratitude toward your mother into words, you would surely arrive at this song.

countrysideTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Rural Landscape” (HD)

Koji Tamaki’s biggest solo hit as the vocalist of Anzenchitai.

安全地帯は大人の恋愛をテーマにした多くの楽曲で知られている一方で、玉置のソロ作品は「キ・ツ・イ」や「Melody」のように、より幅広いレンジをカバーしているように思える。この曲は、彼が出演したフジテレビのドラマ『コーチ』の主題歌にもなった。

The lyrics convey a message like: “Life brings all sorts of things, but wherever you are is my countryside.” We all need our own countryside to walk through a long life.

The poppy melody also feels very fresh for a Tamaki song.

Please give it a listen!

HOWEVERGLAY

GLAY / HOWEVER

This is the 12th single by GLAY, a four-piece rock band from Hokkaido that can be considered a leading presence in Japan’s 1990s rock scene.

Although the song was unpopular among the members at the demo stage, it became the band’s first million-selling hit.

It’s also a staple at weddings and has celebrated many newlyweds.

At the major life milestone of marriage, listening to this song—overflowing with love—can make you feel as though it will brightly illuminate the road ahead.

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Hoshino Takashi

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mountains and riversItsuki Hiroshi

Hiroshi Itsuki — Mountains and Rivers

Released as a single in 2000, this song likens life to mountains and rivers.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Kei Ogura and Takao Horiuchi, both of whom have released self-cover versions.

It was performed as the finale for the White Team and as the overall closing act at the 51st NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 2000.