A classic of poignant, heartwarming songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Let’s play.SION

SION / Let’s play

Shion’s real name is Hideki Fujino.

He was born in Yamaguchi Prefecture, moved to Tokyo at 19, is now 57, and has released 11 singles and 26 albums.

He has also collaborated with Masaharu Fukuyama.

This song is about a woman he likes but is tired of living with—lyrics that make you think he might have divorced once.

By the way, the song only uses three chords, so it’s good for guitar practice.

Like the shining moonSuperfly

Superfly “Like the Shining Moon” Music Video

Speaking of Superfly, they’re known as a band whose powerful sound gives listeners energy and strength.

But their ballads are absolutely amazing too.

Please give “Like the Shining Moon” a listen.

It’s the kind of ballad that you can truly feel is great from the bottom of your heart.

Wish ~To You Back Then~Mirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “Wish ~To You Back Then~ feat. RINZO” Lyric Video

A song by Mirei Toyama that depicts the bittersweet memory of heartbreak through a beautiful singing voice.

The nostalgia for days gone by and the wish for an ex-lover’s happiness are conveyed through her clear, transparent vocals.

It’s a track that fully showcases her talent for expressing the unvarnished emotions of the subscription-streaming generation, and it spread widely through social media.

Released in August 2018, the song has resonated with many listeners and inspired empathy.

It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to listen to on a quiet night while thinking of someone dear.

Its appeal lies in how easy it is to relate to—you can’t help but see yourself in it.

I can’t say it.Gō Hiromi

Hiromi Go - I Can't Say It

Hiromi Go’s ‘Ienai yo’ is the second work in his Ballad Trilogy.

As is true for the whole trilogy, it portrays a man’s feelings in love, and this song expresses the pure-heartedness of a man who can’t bring himself to say ‘I love you.’ It also won the 27th Japan Cable Music Award and became a long-running hit.

I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko

Kyoko Koizumi – I'm Glad I Met You (Official Video)

Kyoko Koizumi, who continues to be one of Japan’s leading actresses, is especially popular among women.

When it comes to her moving, bittersweet songs, “I’m So Glad I Met You” stands out.

It was also a huge hit as a TV drama theme song.

The curtain risesback number

back number – The Curtain Rises [Theme song for the film 'TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – Nankai Mission']

This is a sweeping, heart-stirring ballad by back number, chosen as the theme song for the theatrical release TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – Nankai Mission, coming out in August 2025.

Produced with Takeshi Kobayashi onboard, its sense of scale is breathtaking.

The song portrays the decisive moment when, despite being so overcome by fear that one trembles, one still resolves—out of a sense of duty—to head toward someone in need.

Lead actor Ryohei Suzuki has said this worldview gripped his heart; it truly feels like a scene from a film.

Listen to it when you’re facing a major challenge or need to steel yourself, and you’ll receive a warm yet powerful boost of encouragement.

Stay with meIsland

Island – Stay with me

This Island was formed by the brothers Masao Shiroma and Toshio Shiroma, who had been active as the vocalist and guitarist in the Okinawan hard rock and heavy metal band called Former Murasaki.

They created Island and formed an AOR band, but Masao Shiroma was involved in scandals in 2002, 2004, and 2005, and Toshio passed away from leukemia in 2011.