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

bouquetback number

back number – Bouquet (full)

This is a gem of a love song where unpretentious conversations between lovers convey a clumsy yet profound affection.

It portrays a vague anxiety about the future alongside a straightforward desire to stay together, and listening to it warms the heart.

Released in June 2011 as back number’s second single, the track is also included on the acclaimed album “SUPER STAR.” Many will recognize it as the ending theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV.

The fact that it received over 50 power plays on radio stations nationwide at the time speaks to how much attention it garnered.

This work, which makes you feel the preciousness of everyday life with someone important, continues to be cherished as a classic wedding song.

HomeShimizu Shota

Shota Shimizu 'HOME' MV

It’s a song about leaving your hometown to move to the city, but because it starts off with a lively feel, I think it can still resonate with younger generations.

Even after leaving home, people tend to feel they’d rather give up and go back than struggle through a tough life.

The song captures that feeling well.

boyGENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE / Boy

An emotional, standout ballad that speaks to your past self.

Released in October 2018 as the 17th single.

Lyrics by Masato Odake, composed by Didrik Thott and Octobar.

Chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Hiruobi!”.

The gentle lyrics, telling the you who once chased your dreams that “it’s okay not to hesitate,” quietly encourage everyone living in the present.

The soaring chorus, colored by strings, delivers a finish that warms your heart each time you listen.

Perfect for days when you’re feeling down or when you want to reconnect with your roots.

DreamerJO1

JO1 | ’Dreamer’ Official MV

This song, released in February 2022 as an anthem to support those chasing their dreams, was written as the theme for the omnibus drama Short Program, in which all JO1 members starred.

It’s a medium-tempo ballad filled with encouragement for everyone who refuses to stop moving forward, featuring a dramatic structure where stillness and motion intersect.

The lyrics portray a positive resolve to press on, carrying the light received from someone dear, and the image of continuing step by step despite uncertainty inspires courage.

For JO1, it is also a song that symbolizes the bonds among the members.

Joined handsMINAMI

[MV] MINAMI – The Hands We Held

This is a slow ballad we hope you’ll listen to when you need the courage to move forward.

It’s the memorable first track marking MINAMI’s major-label debut in July 2023.

The theme—taking a new step while supporting and being supported by someone—delicately conveyed through a gentle voice, resonates deeply.

Interweaving everyday scenes like the after-school chime and a rainbow, its narrative style—believing in the hope beyond tears—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a work that gently stays by your side on days when something painful has happened.

fateTani Yuuki

Fate – Tani Yuuki [MV]

This song carries a powerful message: even if everything is determined by fate, we can still carve out our path by making choices of our own will.

It questions what talent truly is and where the line between happiness and unhappiness lies, portraying a protagonist who turns both cheers and jeers into fuel to keep moving forward.

Released in March 2023, it was also included on the album “Tamentai,” which came out the same month.

The song was originally written for Ryota Katayose and used as an insert track for the TV Tokyo drama “Unmei Keisatsu” (Fate Police).

It’s a ballad for everyone chasing their dreams.

By your sideMirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “By Your Side”

It’s a ballad that carefully expresses sincere gratitude and love for someone precious who’s always by your side.

It’s a song by Mirei Toyama, released in November 2016.

Chosen as a recommended track on TV Tokyo’s music program “Cho-Ryuha,” it was aired for about a month.

The gentle sound of piano and strings blends with Toyama’s warm vocals, creating a comforting feeling that seems to untie your heart just by listening.

The lyrics, which let go of bashfulness and evasiveness to convey feelings straightforwardly, are sure to move you.

It’s the perfect song for when you want to say a heartfelt “thank you” that you don’t usually express.