Popular ballads. Band ranking [2026]

Swallowtail Butterfly ~A Love Song~YEN TOWN BAND36rank/position

Swallowtail Butterfly ~Ai no Uta~ / YEN TOWN BAND - Theme song of the film “Swallowtail” - Unplugged cover by Ai Ninomiya

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?

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sasashina

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Sayonara ColorSUPER BUTTER DOG37rank/position

SUPER BUTTER DOG – SAYONARA COLOR

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.

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KEI

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threadBank Band38rank/position

Ito by Bank Band from ap bank fes ’09

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!

proofflumpool39rank/position

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

It’s a moving song filled with youthful feelings.

It’s a track by flumpool, released in December 2011.

Chosen as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, it became a major talking point.

The gently resonant guitar and memorable melody really touch the heart.

The lyrics speak of the courage to take steps toward your dreams and the bonds with those dear to you.

It’s recommended for junior high students who want to get the crowd going at karaoke.

If everyone raises their voices together, it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory.

Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN40rank/position

BEGIN / “Shimanchu nu Takara” 20th Anniversary MV

A classic song that represents Okinawa, widely known as the image song for NHK’s “30th Anniversary of Okinawa’s Reversion to the Mainland.” It’s popular across generations, but when a man in his 50s sings it at karaoke or in a snack bar, his life experience adds a persuasive depth that warms up the room.

Since the song itself has a gentle Okinawan feel, it’s better to sing softly, as if speaking to the listener, rather than belting it out.

The melody flows smoothly, so try not to break the phrases too much—take a good breath and sing through to the end of each line.

That will help bring out the right atmosphere.

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Kubota Mami

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Angel Who Calls Themself TimeCymbals41rank/position

Angel Who Calls Themself Time

A dreamlike ballad uniquely Cymbals, poetically depicting urbanscapes and the passage of time.

The overlapping twin vocals of Asako Toki and Reiji Okii create a calm atmosphere with hints of jazz.

The piece is striking for its structure: emotion gradually rises from a matter-of-fact delivery and bursts in the finale.

Included on the album “Love You,” released in May 2003, it’s positioned as a culminating work before the band’s breakup.

Its slow tempo and sophisticated arrangement feel soothing—perfect for quiet nights, rainy days, or solitary moments of reflection.

A gem for fans of city pop and jazz ballads, and for anyone seeking a touch of poetry in everyday life.

day by dayKANA-BOON42rank/position

KANA-BOON "Hibi" Music Video

KANA-BOON’s songs sing powerfully about overcoming the joys and hardships found in everyday life.

Set to a pop-rock sound, they carry a positive message.

Released as a digital single in December 2024, this track also expresses gratitude to their fans.

It’s a song that stays close to the listener’s heart and gives courage, so please give it a listen when you’re having a tough time or feeling down.

I’m sure it will lift your spirits!