Popular Ballad Song Ranking [2026]

One more time,One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi8rank/position

Masayoshi Yamazaki – “One more time, One more chance” MUSIC VIDEO [4K Quality]

This is the song used to accentuate the calm atmosphere in the Suntory Maker’s Mark commercial, which portrays the unchanging deliciousness of the whiskey through a character played by Shun Oguri who is immortal.

The track is also famous as the theme song for the feature-length anime 5 Centimeters per Second, and it conveys a bittersweet sentiment over the sound of an acoustic guitar.

The lyrics honestly express memories of the past and the regrets tied to them, as well as the pain of wishing for “just one more time,” even while knowing it can never come true.

The part about instinctively looking for someone’s figure somewhere—a feeling many can relate to—also heightens the sense of poignancy.

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kappamaki

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Wherever you areONE OK ROCK9rank/position

Wherever you are

This is one of the signature ballads by ONE OK ROCK, a rock band active not only in Japan but around the world.

It conveys deep love for a cherished person and an eternal vow to always stay by their side.

Its direct message and beautiful melody profoundly move listeners.

Released on the 2010 album “Niche Syndrome,” the song is also widely known for being featured in an NTT Docomo commercial.

It remains highly popular, especially in bridal settings.

While the vocalist’s expressive singing is striking, technical skill isn’t necessary if you sing it carefully with feeling.

It’s a masterpiece that anyone wanting to convey their feelings at karaoke—while thinking of a beloved partner or someone special—should definitely try.

moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro10rank/position

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

A timeless masterpiece that blends gentleness with fragility, like moonlight pouring down on a quiet night.

The lyrics, which gently accompany those bearing loneliness and despair, combined with Chihiro Onitsuka’s overwhelming vocal power, stir listeners to their core.

Released in March 2001, the song was also chosen as the theme for the TV drama “TRICK,” drawing major attention for its mysterious atmosphere.

When you’re feeling lost about yourself or life, or yearning for someone’s support, listening to it will fill you with a warmth that seeps into your heart.

This work remains one of Onitsuka’s signature songs, cherished by many to this day.

HOWEVERGLAY11rank/position

GLAY / HOWEVER

With its poignant lyrics and beautiful melodic line that resonate deeply, this is one of GLAY’s signature songs.

Released in August 1997, it became the band’s first million-selling single and captured the hearts of many listeners.

It was also featured as the ending theme for the TBS drama “Ryakudatsu-ai: Abunai Onna,” which drew even more attention.

The lyrics, which sing of bonds with a loved one and the strength to move forward together by overcoming past experiences, offer comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s a moving song you’ll want to hear when you want to cherish time with someone important or when you’re standing at a crossroads in life.

STAYBLACKPINK12rank/position

BLACKPINK – ‘STAY’ M/V

BLACKPINK is hugely popular not only in Asia but around the world.

Their bittersweet yet pop-infused ballad “STAY” is a perfect example.

In the first half of the song, set to a simple guitar tone, the lyrics express both hatred toward the man who hurt her and a love she still can’t let go of.

In the latter half, the mood shifts dramatically: accompanied by handclaps and a brighter melody, the song turns to declaring love for him.

The message comes through not only in the lyrics, but also in this key change.

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yamamoto

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planetariumOtsuka Ai13rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

bow knotAimer14rank/position

Aimer “Chouchou Musubi” (produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS)

Aimer is a female singer who captivates listeners with a voice that conveys pride in her own sound and a resolute commitment to singing.

Her 11th single, “Butterfly Knot,” which was selected as the theme song for the information program Sukkiri!!, also drew attention for being produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS.

True to its title, the message that things only come together when both sides are present is deeply moving—whether you’re singing it or listening to it.

The melody and dynamics are challenging and require practice, but it’s a highly recommended karaoke number that we hope you’ll learn to sing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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