Popular ballads. Band ranking [2026]
When it comes to bands, many people think of upbeat, fast-tempo songs with a great groove.
While that image is common, bands also have unexpectedly grand ballads and mellow, moving tracks.
This time, we’re introducing songs like those.
We’ve listed them in a ranking based on play counts so far, so be sure to check them out.
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Popular ballads. Band rankings [2026] (31–40)
Give me a gentle kiss.DREAMS COME TRUE31rank/position
DREAMS COME TRUE, also known as DoriCam, is a duo loved across generations, consisting of Miwa Yoshida and Masato Nakamura.
Their song “Yasashii Kiss o Shite” was chosen as the theme for the TBS drama Sand no Utsuwa, starring Masahiro Nakai.
It’s a melancholic yet dramatic number that resonates with the drama’s much-talked-about story of fate’s twists and turns.
While DCT’s uplifting tracks are great, Miwa Yoshida—renowned for her vocal prowess—also shines in tender, heartfelt ballads.
I highly recommend picking this one for karaoke.
Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai32rank/position
On sleepless nights, I suddenly remember someone precious who’s no longer by my side.
This is a tear-jerking rock ballad that sings of a heartbreak so intense it feels like your chest might burst.
It’s a work by the Fukuoka-born band God Doesn’t Roll Dice, included on their mini-album “A View on Lambda,” released in May 2019.
Starting with an intro that feels like turning back the hands of a clock, it builds to a dramatic chorus where emotions spill over all at once, sending shivers through your heart.
It also served as the theme song for the film “Little Subculture Wars: The Rebellion of Village Vanguard!” released in October 2020.
It’s a song that gently stays with you on nights when you can’t let go of a love you can’t forget, or when you want to sing your heart out and cry at karaoke.
wishsumika33rank/position
Sumika’s popular song delicately portrays the complex emotions of love.
It carefully expresses the feelings of a protagonist carrying the pain of unrequited love and a longing that cannot be fulfilled, making it a track that deeply resonates with listeners.
Released on March 3, 2021, this piece was also used as the theme song for the drama “Ossan’s Love: In the Sky,” earning widespread empathy.
Anyone who has experienced the joys and sorrows of love will surely find themselves reflecting on their own memories while listening.
It’s especially recommended for quiet nights or contemplative moments.
Love SongGO!GO!718834rank/position
Delicately portraying the poignant emotions of unrequited love, this song was released in 2000 as GO!GO!7188’s third single.
Lyrics by Akko express a straightforward devotion to a loved one and the pure feeling of happiness that comes simply from being with that person.
Composed by Yuu, the song’s structure and melody resonate deeply with listeners.
The lyrics, which capture both the sorrow and beauty of unrequited love, have struck a chord with many and continue to be cherished across generations.
The profound affection for the beloved is rendered with a distinctive poetic touch, which is likely what captivates listeners’ hearts.
KissORIGINAL LOVE35rank/position
If you’re looking for a seductive, city-night vibe, how about a track by ORIGINAL LOVE? Its sound—where soul and jazz intertwine with sultry elegance—puts you in a more grown-up mood just by listening.
You can practically picture a passionate, romantic love story unfolding between two people spending a long night alone together.
Takao Tajima’s sweet, soulful vocals convey such aching affection that it makes your heart swell.
Released in November 1993 as their fifth single, the song was produced as the theme for the NTV drama “Otona no Kiss” (Adult’s Kiss).
It’s a melt-in-your-mouth sweet love song, perfect for a quiet night alone or for time spent close with someone special—give it a listen.
Swallowtail Butterfly ~A Love Song~YEN TOWN BAND36rank/position
A song that became a hit as the theme for the film Swallowtail.
Although YEN TOWN BAND is a fictional band that appears in the movie, they actually made their real-life debut thanks to this track.
The vocals are by CHARA, an artist who has long enjoyed strong support from women.
This popular song has been covered by many artists; it’s a very quiet yet striking ballad that conveys a deep, burning emotion beneath the surface.
It’s often performed at CHARA’s live shows, so it’s a familiar number for fans, but if you’re a woman who hasn’t heard it before, why not take this opportunity to give it a try?
forget-me-notAwesome City Club37rank/position
The harmonies woven by the male and female twin vocals are richly emotive, flowing into the heart like a conversation.
It’s moving to see how past love is likened to flowers, and how the song portrays the resolve to overcome the sorrow of parting and move toward the future.
This work by Awesome City Club is included on the album “Grower,” released in February 2021.
Created as an inspiration song for the film “We Made a Beautiful Bouquet,” it aligns with the movie’s worldview while showcasing a refined arrangement.
It’s perfect for those starting a new chapter with unforgettable memories, or for anyone who wants to soak in a sentimental mood while feeling the spring breeze.
Sayonara ColorSUPER BUTTER DOG38rank/position
Sayonara COLOR is also known for inspiring Naoto Takenaka to create a film of the same name.
It’s a classic that conveys the beauty of its lyrics with simple clarity.
It’s extremely personal yet easy to relate to, and above all, incredibly gentle.
Set to a gently wistful and calm melody, it carries a message urging you to live true to yourself.
Listening to this song will surely help you accept a painful, lonely goodbye and still believe in the future.
It’s a superb ballad that stands by you through every farewell in life.
threadBank Band39rank/position
The beautiful lyrics that liken connections between people to “threads” resonate deeply.
It’s a song woven with fateful encounters and the mystery of relationships, singing of the possibility of warming someone or healing their wounds.
Bank Band’s cover version is included on the album “Omeshisouai” released in October 2004.
It has also been used in a Sumitomo Life commercial and as a TV drama theme song, and is loved as a wedding standard.
It’s recommended listening when you’ve gone through tough times or want to feel the bond with someone important.
The heartwarming lyrics and Bank Band’s warm performance are sure to soothe you!
proofflumpool40rank/position
This is a moving, heartfelt ballad by flumpool, written as the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 78th NHK National School Music Competition.
It carries a warm message that the joys and pains shared with friends become a reliable strength that will support us in the life ahead.
Released as a single in September 2011, it was also positioned as an important track that adorns the latter part of the album “experience.” It was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and has become widely beloved as a choral piece.
When you need the courage to step into a new world or want to reaffirm your bonds with friends, why not give it a listen?