Masterpieces to listen to at noon: recommended popular songs

Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Rainy Blue

When I think of Hideaki Tokunaga, cover songs come to mind, but his original debut single, “Rainy Blue,” is also a masterpiece.

His slightly high, husky voice suits tender, heartrending love songs very well.

It’s a song I want to listen to on a rainy day off.

Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki

Tohoshinki / Why Did I Fall in Love with You?

It should be heart-wrenching, yet thanks to the melody and the vocals, I think it’s a song that makes you feel gentle and warm.

The melody is easy on the ears.

I think it’s a good song to listen to for comfort when you’re tired.

It’s a shame we can’t listen to this song anymore, isn’t it?

Your placeTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Your Place (Have a Good Time Here) Edited Version (Official Music Video)

Welcome to a verdant paradise.

Why not free yourself from the busyness of everyday life while wrapped in the gentle singing voice of Mariya Takeuchi? Released in December 2023, this song was written as the theme for the Netflix anime “Pokémon Concierge.” Its soothing lyrics and comforting melody are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Forget your phone and your watch, and think only about enjoying the moment.

It’s the perfect track for spending such luxurious time.

Recommended for a leisurely walk on your day off or whenever you just want to unwind.

Things I like about youNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “The Things I Like About You” MV (Short Ver.)

The lyrics, where more and more things you love about the person you like keep coming up, are wonderful and probably make you think of someone you care about.

Taking time to leisurely think about the person you like is lovely and soothing—it’s a nice way to spend your time.

I think it’s also nice to just zone out and listen.

Daydream BelieverTakahata Mitsuki

Mitsuki Takahata’s full-length PV for “Napping Princess” released — covering the classic “Daydream Believer”

This is the song that Mitsuki Takahata sings in the animated film “Napping Princess.” I was truly amazed by how good her singing is.

Her gentle, clear voice is soothing.

I thought it was a nice song you can casually listen to while relaxing.

I hope more people get to know this song.

Summer Colorsyuzu

Yuzu 'Natsuiro' MUSIC VIDEO

This is one of Yuzu’s signature songs.

They say they’ve been singing it since their days performing on the streets.

It features a breezy intro and a cheerful opening line, and the music video stands out with footage of the two having a great time.

As a summertime staple, this song always brings back bittersweet memories of youth whenever I hear it.

Even if you don’t have bittersweet memories, it still leaves you with that bittersweet feeling—that’s the brilliance of Yuzu.

Please use it as a weapon to face the weekdays starting again tomorrow.

A Member of the Fire BrigadeRATS&STAR

Rats & Star 'Megumi no Hito' RATS & STAR

This is a song used in a Shiseido commercial in the summer of 1983.

It’s a pop-rock tune with catchy phrases that stick in your head.

With its relentlessly upbeat vibe, it was already a staple at year-end parties and other high-energy occasions when it was released.

Perfect for a weekend when you want to boost your mood.