Masterpieces to listen to at noon: recommended popular songs

One Step, One EncounterMakihara Noriyuki

One Step, One Encounter

This is the theme song for “Jun Sanpo,” a show where Junji Takada, while retaining his playful vibe, interacts with people around town.

When its beautiful melody—something only Noriyuki Makihara could compose—is sung with a clear, expansive voice, various scenes spring to mind.

It’s perfect for lunchtime before you head out!

A late breakfast on a gentle afternoonHata Motohiro

Yawarakana Gogo Ni Osoi Choushoku Wo

A song with a soothing melody and a profound poetic world that captivates the listener.

Released in 2010, Hata Motohiro’s track was included as the B-side to his debut single, “Synchro.” The lyrics, which depict a moment of facing oneself in silence, resonate deeply with the listener’s heart.

This piece evokes a gentle flow of time, like leisurely enjoying breakfast in the soft afternoon light.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to pause amid busy days and take a fresh look at yourself.

Recommended for a weekend stroll or for unwinding at the end of the day.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

There are times when you feel down, but this is SHISHAMO’s signature song that cheers you on to keep looking forward and moving ahead.

I think many people learned about it from the commercial.

It brightens people’s spirits regardless of age or gender, so it’s a great pick for midday.

Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu

Yū Takahashi’s directorial debut MV “Tomorrow Will Surely Be a Good Day” — Omokuri Director Edit Version (Short Size)

This is a wonderful, upbeat number overflowing with bright energy, also known for the fact that Yu Takahashi himself participated as the director of the promotional video.

The lyrics encourage you to keep moving forward without fretting, so if you’re worried about something, I recommend listening to this song and heading out.

Orion Beer, Okinawa’s prideBEGIN

Ozzy’s proud Orion Beer, along with diving footage

It’s a refreshing and uniquely Okinawan song—like a cloudless blue sky—about enjoying life with a beer in hand in broad daylight.

Orion Beer is now available at various retailers nationwide, so why not try copying this style on a leisurely afternoon off?

Everything is GoodTakano Hiroshi

Everything is good : Hiroshi Takano

Just a single guitar—and a fairly simple performance at that—but the lyrics and Hiroshi Takano’s vocal tone are wonderful.

Various scenes and feelings come to mind.

It’s a song I definitely want to listen to at a leisurely lunchtime, when you can truly feel your heart being cleansed.

GO!!!FLOW

GO!!! – FLOW Anime “NARUTO” Opening [BGM] Go – FLOW NARUTO Opening

It was chosen as an opening theme for the anime Naruto.

It’s an upbeat, bright song, and the call-and-response in the chorus is so catchy you’ll find yourself humming along.

The guitar solo in the middle lifts your spirits, and the melody has a great groove.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to play on a drive on a day off when you want to boost your energy.