Popular Ballad Song Ranking [2026]

ORIONNakajima Mika57rank/position

Mika Nakashima 'ORION' Music Video

“ORION” is Mika Nakashima’s 27th single, released in 2008.

It was used as an insert song for the TBS drama “Ryusei no Kizuna,” in which Nakashima herself also appeared, and it reached No.

6 on the Oricon singles chart.

Her heartrending vocals, combined with lyrics that evoke “tears,” make it a song that truly resonates.

Erika Toda, who co-starred with her in the drama, also appears in the music video, so be sure to watch it while listening to the track!

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Hamada Takuya

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flameLiSA58rank/position

LiSA “Homura” -MUSIC CLIP-

The 17th single by female singer LiSA, used as the theme song for the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba anime film.

Featuring a sweeping melody and powerful vocals, the song carries a strong message about overcoming sorrow and hardship.

Released in October 2020, it became a massive hit that sparked a social phenomenon, surpassing 300 million streams and achieving million-sales status.

Portraying the strength to push through adversity, the bonds with companions, and hope for the future, it’s a perfect track for times when you’re feeling down or need encouragement.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo59rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

The gem-like ballad by Yo Hitoto, woven with her gentle singing voice, was born in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

Its prayer-like, tender melody and lyrics filled with wishes for another’s happiness sink deeply into the listener’s heart.

Since its release in February 2004, it has been featured as a film theme song and in JRA commercials, and it won an Excellence Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards.

It remained in the karaoke rankings’ Top 5 for 90 consecutive weeks and has become a classic covered by many artists.

It’s the perfect song for quietly reflecting on your feelings for someone important, or when you sincerely want to wish someone happiness.

homeKiyama Yusaku60rank/position

Yusaku Kiyama - Home

A song from a father’s perspective by Yusaku Kiyama that weaves together the deep love of a parent cherishing their child and the joys of parenting, expressed through a gentle vocal and ballad melody.

It delivers to the heart, along with the warm tones of the piano, everyday moments shared with a child, a parent’s feelings as they watch their child grow, and messages to the child.

Released in February 2008 as his major-label debut on tearbridge records, it was chosen as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “UtaSta!!” and Yomiuri TV’s “Joho Live Miyane-ya.” In December of the same year, he performed at the 59th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

This is a song you’ll want to listen to during life’s important milestones—such as graduations and weddings—when you want to feel the bond between parent and child.

FluxEllie Goulding61rank/position

Ellie Goulding – Flux (Official Video)

A gem of a ballad that delicately captures the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.

Ellie Goulding’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully portray the feeling of being trapped by a past love.

The simple, piano-centered arrangement enhances the emotion conveyed by the lyrics.

Released in March 2019, the track is included on the album Brightest Blue.

Its black-and-white music video also superbly reflects the song’s world.

This is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or carries unspoken feelings in their heart.

Ghost in the FlowersYorushika62rank/position

Yorushika – Ghost in a Flower (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This is a song that portrays bittersweet summer memories, woven from a delicate singing voice and melody.

Yorushika’s gentle music spins a narrative with the touch of a short story.

Scenes like summer shade, frozen treats, and the sound of the wind resonate in the heart, stirring a faint sense of melancholy.

Released in April 2020, this song was also chosen as the theme for the animated film “A Whisker Away,” and is included on the album “Plagiarism.” The piece carefully depicts shifting memories and emotions against a backdrop of summer landscapes, making it a track you’ll want to hear at the turn of the seasons from spring to summer.

With its warm vocals that quietly stay close to your heart, why not take a moment to look back on your cherished memories?

DIVINEshōjo jidai63rank/position

Girls' Generation / DIVINE (Story ver.)

A grand ballad adorned with a crystal-clear, beautiful melody and lyrics that are both heartrending and powerful.

It was included on the 2014 album “THE BEST.” The strong harmonies of all nine Girls’ Generation members stir the heart, singing of courage and hope to move forward through hardship.

Within the magnificent soundscape woven by strings and piano, each member’s voice blends beautifully.

As the final official recording by the group’s nine-member lineup including Jessica, this song holds deep significance for fans.

It is a gem of a ballad that showcases Girls’ Generation’s musical prowess—one that resonates when you’ve faced setbacks or farewells and need the courage to look ahead.