Back Number’s Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

Velvet Poemback number8rank/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.

I love youback number9rank/position

back number – I Love You

Written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Soar High! (Maiagare!),” this track by back number was released digitally in October 2022.

Through everyday, modest scenes, the lyrics gently prompt us to reflect on our feelings for someone precious.

The pure, self-questioning desire—how can I bring more smiles to someone important?—is something almost anyone can relate to.

It’s a perfect number for those thinking of someone far away or wanting to reaffirm what truly matters amid the busyness of daily life.

cotton candyback number10rank/position

back number – Watagashi (full)

Set against the backdrop of a summer festival, this bittersweet love song portrays the feelings of a man who can’t bring himself to confess his love.

Released in 2012 as the sixth single, it was also included on the third album “blues” and the best-of collection “Encore.” Chosen as the opening theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV in July 2012, it reached many listeners.

Wanting to hold hands but hesitating, wanting to say “I like you” but unable to put it into words—the song is filled with that poignant frustration, evoking the faint, youthful crushes many experienced in their school days.

Amid the lively bustle of the festival, quiet emotions surface; this is a track that resonates with the sweet, fleeting moments of love.

Until the day I can no longer rememberback number11rank/position

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

A poignant ballad by back number that quietly sings of lingering feelings and a sense of loss for a former lover.

Released in October 2011 as their third single, the song is also included on the album “Superstar,” which came out the same month.

The lyrics portray the emptiness of days that keep going even after losing the most important person in the world, and the deep bond in which the two formed halves of each other.

Fear of memories of the other fading intertwines with the resignation that they will eventually be forgotten, and the realization that the time spent with the person was part of oneself wells up with aching tenderness.

A song that offers comfort to anyone who has lost someone dear.

blinkback number12rank/position

back number – “Mabataki” Music Video

This is a moving ballad by back number, a three-piece rock band from Gunma Prefecture.

Released in 2017 as their 17th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the film “The 8-Year Engagement.” The lyrics, which express the desire to stay with a precious person forever, are truly touching.

It’s especially recommended for middle schoolers who have someone they like.

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Araki Jakkan

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Old-fashionedback number13rank/position

back number – Old Fashion (full)

I bet many people are reminded of the drama when they hear this song.

It became a hit as the theme song for the drama “We Love: With You Who Forget Me,” starring Erika Toda and Tsuyoshi Muro.

The drama follows the life of a protagonist who develops early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, and I was moved to tears by how this song mirrors the characters’ heartbreaking emotions.

It’s a bittersweet track, but one that makes you feel like you can be kinder to someone when you listen to it.

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utatane

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Ritz partyback number14rank/position

Ritz Party

If you’ve been having a hard time meeting up with your best friend, I recommend “Ritz Party.” It’s a track included on back number’s album Superstar.

The lyrics, sung from the perspective of a man in a long-distance relationship, express a deep love for his partner.

However, since the lyrics never explicitly state that it’s about a romantic relationship, you can easily listen to it as if the partner were a friend.

Also, be sure to pay attention to the poignantly expressive vocals of Iyori Shimizu, the band’s lead singer.

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yamamoto

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