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.

PicnicSato Hiroshi

Hiroshi Sato Picnic

This is a track by city pop maestro Hiroshi Sato, featuring soothing, floating synths and steel pan-like tones.

Urban and sophisticated yet somehow nostalgic, its melody feels like a calm moment spent in early-summer dappled sunlight.

The song was released in June 1988 as the B-side of the single “Seat For Two,” and it’s also included on the 1988 album “AQUA.” Doesn’t it express, with gentle sound, the tenderness of those ordinary moments spent with someone special?

Crescent ○○Hirahara Ayaka

Mikazuki Marumaru

This is a song written and composed by Ryota Fujimaki that brims with the warm charm of Ayaka Hirahara.

Its glittering, sun-dappled spring sound is layered with her expansive, embracing vocals, gently enfolding the listener’s heart.

You can almost see the scene of looking up at a crescent moon swaying in the sky after the rain, reminiscing about cherished days with someone dear.

Junichi Soga’s acoustic arrangement and the innocent chorus of children further highlight the sense of hope for the future and comfort.

This piece is included on the album “Love 2,” released in April 2017.

It’s a song that will surely warm your heart when you listen to it during peaceful moments with someone special or when taking a new step forward.

Harusaki KobeniYano Akiko

Akiko Yano – Harusaki Kobeni

This is a song that was used in a Kanebo commercial in the late 1970s.

As a female singer-songwriter, she has such an overwhelming individuality that no true followers have yet been identified.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to on a holiday afternoon when the warm sun starts to appear.

Every day is special.Takeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi - Every Day Is Special ~cover by sena~

This song has even been selected as a theme for a morning show, but considering its lyrics that celebrate the beauty of a colorful life, wouldn’t it be perfect for relaxing at lunchtime as well? I think it will share the energy you need to move forward with optimism and positivity.