Popular Moving Songs Ranking [2026]

Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN78rank/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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PhotographEd Sheeran79rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Photograph (Official Music Video)

There’s a timeless song that accompanies those sentimental moments when you look back on summer memories alongside your photos.

It’s a track by Ed Sheeran, the globally renowned singer-songwriter from the UK.

Featured on the acclaimed album ‘×,’ which won British Album of the Year at the 2015 BRIT Awards, this folk-pop ballad was released as a single.

Centered on a long-distance relationship, it portrays a couple reaffirming their love through photographs.

The message—that even apart, hearts remain close—gently seeps in, carried by his soft vocals and acoustic sound.

The music video, which uses real home videos from his childhood, deepens the song’s warm yet bittersweet atmosphere and is truly moving.

As summer comes to an end, why not listen to it while thinking of someone special?

Don’t go.Souta80rank/position

Uta-nee Yuki “Don’t Go” (remaster)

The true feelings you can’t bring yourself to say… hasn’t everyone experienced that? This is a signature song by Vocaloid producer Souta, released in 2013.

Its somewhat retro-sounding arrangement pairs perfectly with Yuki Kaai’s softly murmuring vocals.

It somehow makes you feel nostalgic.

The lyrics portray the protagonist’s inner thoughts at the moment of parting with someone precious.

As the title suggests, they want to say “Don’t go,” but can’t bring themselves to say it… It’s a tear-jerking Vocaloid track that makes you imagine all sorts of stories—what might have happened between these two, and more.

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Araki Jakkan

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The Last Confession of the EarthKEMU VOXX81rank/position

[HD] The Last Confession on Earth [GUMI] - KEMU VOXX

It’s a song that begins with lyrics that evoke the death of a loved one.

At first listen, the melody sounds very bright and pop, but once you understand the narrative of the lyrics, you realize it’s a deeply heartrending piece.

The driving tempo conveys the protagonist’s forward-looking feelings, making it a moving song.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE82rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a rock band that enjoys immense popularity for their catchy musical style.

Why not brighten your Reels or Stories with a song that captures the essence of youthful spirit in true MGA fashion? This track is a classic pop-rock number, defined by exhilarating, fast-paced guitar sounds that feel incredibly refreshing.

It carries a powerful message: to embrace the fleeting nature of our days—and even the pain and regret born within them—and transform it into strength for the future.

Released in April 2024, it was also selected as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery.” Perfect for posts filled with precious memories with friends or the determination to take on a new challenge.

It’s an inspiring song that also made headlines for winning the 66th Japan Record Awards.

One more time, One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi83rank/position

One more time, One more chance – 5 Centimeters Per Second

A signature song by Masayoshi Yamazaki that portrays the poignant sense of loss in endlessly searching for someone who is gone.

Released in January 1997, it became known as the theme song for the film he starred in, “The Moon and a Cabbage,” and enjoyed long-running success with over 300,000 copies sold.

In 2007, it was used again as the theme song for Makoto Shinkai’s animated film “5 Centimeters per Second,” bringing it widespread recognition among younger audiences.

With a simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar arpeggios and piano, the song delicately weaves feelings of lingering attachment and regret.

Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics pair beautifully with the piano’s delicate timbre.

Recommended for those who want to perform it quietly on a calm night while thinking of someone dear.

Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken84rank/position

Ken Hirai “May I Call It Magic?” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This song, with Ken Hirai’s voice resonating in the heart, portrays the small moments of everyday life as “magic.” Accompanied by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it sings of the little moments that bring a smile to someone’s face and the strength to overcome sorrow together.

Released in June 2016, it was featured as the theme song for Panasonic’s digital single-lens camera commercial.

Despite its simple arrangement, the lyrics convey a deep sense of love and connection.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to reflect on days spent with someone special or when you’re in the mood for a moving ballad.

Let this song cleanse your heart.