Classic songs that sing about the past. Recommended popular tracks.

cherry blossomKetsumeishi

Sakura – Ketsumeishi (Full)

Sakura, the 14th single by Ketsumeishi, released in 2005.

Despite having no tie-in, it became a million-seller and a staple among cherry blossom songs.

It remains Ketsumeishi’s biggest hit single.

This poignant love song vividly depicts reminiscing about days with a former lover—the scenery of cherry blossoms hasn’t changed, but the one difference is that the lover is no longer there.

Stay just the way you are.Mayo Okamoto

Mayu Okamoto “Stay Just the Way You Are” Music Video

It was released in 1997 as Mayo Okamoto’s fourth single.

Although it has a bright, pop feel, the song actually recounts memories with a close classmate friend who passed away at the age of 26.

It was used as the image song for the Shinkin Bank.

It’s a refreshing, heart-tugging track that also gives you a sense of positivity.

Obuchi-kun’s Dog SongKobukuro

kobuchikunnoinunouta

This song, “Kobuchi-kun no Inu no Uta” (Kobuchi’s Dog Song), is included on Kobukuro’s second album, “grapefruits,” released in 2002.

Apparently, it’s a song depicting Mr.

Kobuchi’s memories with a dog named John that he used to have.

With its lyrics from a dog’s perspective, it’s a moving track that dog lovers are sure to find irresistible.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

This song has a strong association with the Olympics because it was used as the theme for NHK’s Athens Olympic broadcasts.

It’s a moving piece that embodies and conveys the athletes’ experiences up to the moment they stand on the Olympic stage—their grueling, blood-sweat-and-tears effort, the frustration of past defeats, and the pain of injuries they’ve overcome.

It’s also a recommended track for anyone who wants to set high goals or has a wall they want to overcome.

Our FailureMorita Doji

Bokutachino Shippai

Starting with a scene bathed in spring sunlight, Morita Doji’s classic masterfully portrays the delicate feelings and subtle shifts of a young person’s heart.

Many will be moved by the protagonist, who acknowledges their fragility yet strives to move forward.

Featured on the album Mother Sky, the song initially garnered support for its unique worldview upon its November 1976 release.

Later, in 1993, it was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama High School Teacher, becoming a major hit with over 900,000 copies sold.

Its melody—woven from a softly spoken, intimate vocal and the gentle timbre of an acoustic guitar—is the perfect companion when you’re carrying something in your heart or want to immerse yourself in memories of someone dear.

Wish ~To You Back Then~Mirei Touyama

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

A song that captures the bittersweet pain of heartbreak.

Released in August 2018, this track wraps a gentle nostalgia for days gone by in Mirei Toyama’s clear, luminous voice.

Her gift for expressing the authentic emotions of the streaming generation is on full display, and its strong relatability has helped it spread widely through social media.

The wish for an ex-lover’s happiness… you can’t help but place yourself in the song.

On a quiet night, as you think of someone dear, please give it a listen.

If you’ve experienced a breakup, it will resonate all the more deeply.

Until the day I can no longer rememberback number

back number – Until the Day It Becomes Unrememberable (full)

A masterpiece that beautifully portrays the inner landscape where the grief of losing a loved one intersects with the desire to hold on to their memories.

The gentle, humming-like melody, the understated guitar riff, and Iyori Shimizu’s wistful vocals all deepen the emotions of parting.

Released in October 2011, this song is included on the album “Superstar” and was also used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s music program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN.” Although the vocal range is fairly wide, the calm melodic line makes it a song you can sing while savoring the lyrics.