Good songs themed around love, encouragement, and life—tracks with lyrics you can relate to.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Hitomi wo Tojite – Ken Hirai (Full)

Released in 2004, this is a hit song by Ken Hirai that was tied in as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” The gentle, slightly wistful beauty of Hirai’s falsetto leaves a strong impression.

The song portrays scenes of memories with a lover who is no longer by one’s side.

It’s a moving classic that makes you feel that the ordinary days spent with someone precious are an irreplaceable happiness.

Chuo FreewayMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Arai - Chuo Freeway (from 'Japanese Love and Yuming.')

A song consists not only of lyrics and melody, but also of the overall image and atmosphere it conveys.

In Central Freeway, an unmistakably stylish, sophisticated urban impression takes center stage.

It’s a richly flavorful track that lets you experience the meaning of moody firsthand.

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Noriyuki Makihara × Motohiro Hata “Far, Far Away”

When I left my hometown and started living on my own, I came across this song and burst into tears.

It reminded me that I’ve always been able to keep going thanks to the support of my family and childhood friends back home.

Even now, after living alone for a long time, listening to this song makes me feel like I can return to the初心 I had back then.

Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Junrenka” MUSIC VIDEO (Original ver.)

It’s a love song filled with straightforward affection.

The lyrics embrace everything about a lover, moving you and encouraging you to think, “I’m fine just as I am.” Even when nothing seems to go right and you start to dislike yourself, this is a song that gives you the strength to feel, “There’s someone by my side watching over me!” Although it was released in August 2006, it still ranks high as a popular karaoke choice.

Its charm lies in its masculine lyrics—blunt yet sincere.

Not only the solo part at the beginning, but also the rap section in the middle makes it perfect for a passionate performance.

It seems like it would be a blast to split the parts with friends and sing it together.

This love hasn’t even begun.Magokoro Burazāzu

Magokoro Brothers 'Shooting Star'

This is a song included on Magokoro Brothers’ ninth album, Yume no Hibi ~SERIOUS & JOY~, released two years and three months after their previous work.

It is positioned as the third installment of the “Farewell Song Trilogy.” The person on the jacket is Masatoshi Nagase, who appears in the short film Magokoro featuring the “Farewell Song Trilogy.”

milk teaHata Motohiro

Milk Tea - Motohiro Hata

The hugely popular singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata covers a song by UA.

It’s arranged with a different vibe from the original, and his voice over the acoustic guitar is truly mesmerizing.

The lyrics, which yearn for abundant love, carry a sense of warmth.

From his vocal prowess to the beauty of the lyrics and the overall atmosphere, every aspect is wonderful—an inspiring, moving song.

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Hane Keisuke

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coloring; color scheme; hues; decoration; embellishment; added flair (figurative)Mr.Children

Mr.Children “Irodori” MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.

Children’s songs that sounded great back when I was a student still haven’t lost any of their power today.

They’re the perfect encouragement for an era where we’re all worn down by the stresses of society.

When I’m exhausted from work, this song hits me the hardest.

It makes me feel like, “Alright, I’ll give it my best again tomorrow.”