Back Number Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

The curtain risesback number15rank/position

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

It’s the theme song for the theatrical release “TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – Nankai Mission,” hitting theaters on August 1, 2025, and it feels very much like a classic back number track.

Compared to other songs, the average vocal range is lower and the difficulty is relatively mild, making it easier to take on; however, there are lots of switches between chest voice and falsetto in the chorus and the bridge.

I think that’s the key to really delivering this song! Basically, aim to resonate in the head and sing the whole piece gently.

That way, your chest voice won’t sound forced but will come out airy and open, making transitions to falsetto smoother.

Also, falsetto uses more breath than you might think, so take in plenty of air through your mouth wherever you can breathe.

The highest note, C5, appears in the bridge; if you imagine ringing the very top of your head and push a little more firmly there, it should land beautifully!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

Letterback number16rank/position

back number – Letter (full)

A heartwarming medium-tempo ballad that straightforwardly sings of gratitude to parents living far away.

It’s a song by back number, included on the album “Chandelier,” released in December 2015.

The dramatic arrangement featuring strings and the vocalist’s emotionally rich delivery are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Chosen as an NTT Docomo commercial song, it attracted attention alongside a storyline depicting the bond between parent and child.

Filled with cherished memories of being loved and the hard-to-say “thank you,” this piece is perfect for spring, when many leave home for school or work.

Why not listen to it on a night when your family’s faces suddenly come to mind or you feel like picking up the phone?

Happinessback number17rank/position

Happiness / back number (cover)

A song included as the B-side to back number’s 2011 single “Hanabira.” Told from a female perspective, it expresses the bittersweet feelings of a girl in unrequited love.

It’s a poignant breakup song in which she hides her true feelings while wishing for the happiness of the boy she loves with someone else.

Blue Springback number18rank/position

back number – Aoi Haru (full)

A song that portrays the struggles and growth of young people.

Released in November 2012, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “High School Entrance Exam.” The protagonist’s search for a life unbound by convention resonates deeply alongside Iyori Shimizu’s vocals.

This single marks back number’s first self-produced release, with the cover photo also taken by vocalist Shimizu.

Spring is a season of diving into new environments—a time when anxiety and hope intermingle.

Why not give this song a listen? It will surely give you the courage to walk your own path.

petalback number19rank/position

back number – Hanabira (full)

A heartbreaking breakup song that overlays the fleeting memories of love with cherry blossom petals.

The lyrics delicately portray how memories with a lover linger everywhere in the city, turning even everyday scenes into amplifiers of pain.

While still holding on to love, the reality is that they will never meet again.

This song carries a message that gently embraces that hurt.

Released in April 2011, it was featured as the ending theme for JAPAN COUNTDOWN.

It is sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced a painful romance.

Velvet Poemback number20rank/position

Velvet Poem

There is a gemlike ballad by back number—known for lyrics and melodies that shake the heart—created as the theme song for the film Akira and Akira.

Shimizu Iyori’s voice, singing like a prayer and wishing that his laid-bare self could be seen as something beautiful, sinks deep into the chest.

The piece quietly yet powerfully seems to cheer on those who, despite their anguish and inner conflicts, keep moving toward their goals.

This moving song was released in August 2022 and was later included on the acclaimed album Humor.

Premiering alongside the film, it became beloved by many, debuting at No.

2 on the Billboard Japan Download Songs chart—a sign that its impact has resonated widely.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you’re wavering over a major life decision or need a gentle word of encouragement.

It will surely echo deep within your heart and give you the strength to take a step toward tomorrow.

To new loversback number21rank/position

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.