Masterpieces to listen to at noon: recommended popular songs

A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 'A Tiny Bit of Courage'

The cheering song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, “Chippokena Yuuki” (“A Tiny Bit of Courage”), is a track about people who struggle with the gap between reality and their ideals.

Its straightforward lyrics and Funky Kato’s earnest, direct vocal delivery pierce straight into our hearts.

On those weekend nights when you’re feeling hazy about work and reality, listen to it, have a good cry, and go to sleep.

only humanK

K　『Only Human』

It’s a song used in 1 Litre of Tears, and it’s an epic message song themed around human setbacks and hope.

I felt that listening to it when you’re a bit tired can make your heart feel lighter.

The gentle melody makes it very easy to listen to.

GarnetOku Hanako

Garnet – Hanako Oku (Full) Theme song of the film “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time” cover

It’s a song that served as the theme for “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” directed by the filmmaker behind “Your Name.” The gemstone meaning of garnet is “friendship, amity,” which perfectly suits this slightly bittersweet yet beautiful melody.

With Oku Hanako’s clear, soaring vocals and lyrics that bring back a sweet-and-sour page of youth, it’s a piece that lets you savor a quiet day off while looking back on your adolescence.

Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi

[Official] Aoi Teshima – Letter to Tomorrow (Theme Song for the Monday 9 PM Drama ‘Someday I Will Surely Cry When I Remember This Love’)

Teshima’s singing voice is beautiful, and the lyrics sink in smoothly.

It’s truly a laid-back song that lets each word paint a scene, making it easy to get emotionally involved and relate to it.

It was also used as a TV drama’s theme song, and I remember thinking it fit perfectly at the time.

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?

It’s Who We AreNulbarich

Nulbarich – It’s Who We Are (Official Music Video) ［Radio Edit］

A sophisticated track that captures an urban scene starting from a lazy Sunday.

Nulbarich weaves together a groovy, light rhythm that resonates comfortably, blending a variety of genres like soul, funk, and R&B.

Featured on the EP “Who We Are,” released in May 2017, the song was also used as the web commercial track for Audio-Technica’s SOLID BASS wireless earphones, the ATH-CKS50TW.

The cutting guitar rhythm leaves a strong impression, and the lyrics, which mix English and Japanese, convey the small joys found in everyday life and the importance of taking it easy.

It’s a stylish, soothing tune that pairs perfectly with a weekend drive or a relaxing moment at a café.

Mr. Summertimesaakasu

Mr. Summertime / JACK IN THE BOX

Speaking of Circus’s smash hits, this is the one.

Its bittersweet yet beautiful melody, depicting summer sunshine and a story of lost love, really touches the heart.

Released in March 1978, it topped the Oricon charts and sold 652,000 copies.

Chosen as Kanebo’s summer campaign song, it went on to become a million-selling blockbuster.

Showcasing Circus’s superb choral harmonies, this track is perfect for a leisurely day by the sea.

Why not listen to it at a relaxed pace, letting it overlap with your own summer memories?