A poignant ballad song. A tear-jerking masterpiece of Japanese pop music.

Until we meet againHirai Dai

Until we meet again

Precisely because they care deeply for each other, they choose to walk different paths… It’s a bittersweet yet forward-looking love ballad.

The song, by singer-songwriter Dai Hirai, is included on his third album, “Slow & Easy,” released in 2015.

The warm arrangement, highlighted by gentle strings, pairs perfectly with Hirai’s vocals, bringing both tears and solace.

This work teaches us that a “farewell” isn’t merely a sad event.

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Araki Jakkan

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rootKing Gnu

King Gnu – Root

This song paints a hope for life nestled within a quiet melody.

Created by King Gnu as the theme for TBS’s Sunday drama “The Diamond Sleeping in the Sea” in October 2024, it’s crafted as a mid-tempo ballad characterized by the graceful tones of piano and strings.

While understated, it powerfully portrays the act of living, likening it to a plant that firmly takes root in the earth, and it deeply questions what it means to live true to oneself for someone else.

It also gently sings of accepting past pain and memories, yet still choosing to face forward with resolve and hope.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re thinking of someone dear or when you’re unsure of your own self-worth.

To new loversback number

back number – To the New Lovers

This song delicately portrays bittersweet emotions buried deep in the heart.

Released in 2024 by back number, it was written as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Umi no Hajimari” (The Beginning of the Sea).

Set to a melody that resonates, it expresses the weakness of a self that can’t quite grow up, a yearning for the innocent faces of children, and hopes for the next generation.

With lyrics that contrast light and shadow and a clear, translucent vocal, the piece achieves beautiful harmony and offers comfort to anyone carrying unspoken, aching feelings for someone.

It’s a recommended track for those who wish to feel the sense of loss and regret that comes with living, as well as hope for the future.

Only a single voicerokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Just One Voice” / Rokudenashi – One Voice [Official Music Video]

It’s a poignant song that empathizes with people carrying the pain of heartbreak and the struggle of living.

Released in December 2021, it delicately portrays the loneliness and inner conflict of young people today, accompanied by the gentle tones of the piano.

The emotions expressed by Rokudenashi reflect the image of people who, though hurt by everyday words, still try their best to smile.

The song resonated across borders, reaching No.

1 on Hong Kong’s Spotify Viral Chart and moving many hearts.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to those who can’t quite put their feelings into words or who are wrestling with worries alone.

Its tender melodies and vocals will surely stay close to your heart.

Wet BalladDa-iCE

Wet Ballad

Da-iCE is a five-member dance and vocal group expanding their fan base with four-octave twin vocals and stylish dance performances.

“Nureta Ballad,” a track from their seventh album SCENE, features an airy sound and clear, transparent vocals that truly move the heart.

Its sentimental lyrics about someone you can’t forget may resonate with listeners’ own experiences.

It’s an emotional number whose lyrical melody lingers in your ears.

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Hoshino Takashi

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In loveHY

HY - “In Love” (Theme song for the film ‘366 Days’) Music Video

Even if you weren’t the one they chose, the fact that you loved doesn’t change… A bittersweet yet forward-looking sentiment runs through this touching HY ballad.

Written as the theme song for the film “366 Days,” released in January 2025, the track is positioned as an answer song to their 2008 classic “366 Days.” It beautifully portrays emotional growth—rising from the pain of heartbreak and embracing even that experience as a cherished memory—and is also included on the album “TIME.” Set across Okinawa and Tokyo, the film unfolds a pure love story spanning 20 years, and this song superbly captures its worldview.

For those who have reached the end of a romance, or who are about to take a new step forward, this is a song that will gently give you a push.

reverse dreamKing Gnu

King Gnu – Sakayume

This song captured the hearts of many as a soul-stirring, grand ballad.

It features a beautiful piano melody and sweeping string arrangements, with lyrics that poignantly intertwine sorrow and hope.

Released in December 2021, it was selected as the ending theme for the popular anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

The delicate sound design characteristic of King Gnu and the lyrics that align with the film’s worldview are a perfect match.

It’s a recommended track for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or farewells, or for anyone who wants to feel the bond with someone dear.

The heart-penetrating vocals are moving and will warmly envelop your heart.