Ken Hirai’s Cheer Songs and Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

NonfictionHirai Ken1rank/position

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

A heartfelt message song born from the experience of losing a close friend.

Ken Hirai’s powerful vocals portray the longing for a lost life and the wish to meet again, with a voice that stirs the soul.

Since its release in June 2017, this medium-tempo ballad has resonated with many.

Created as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Little Giant,” its delicate, acoustic guitar–based arrangement harmonizes beautifully with the drama’s worldview.

The lyrics probe deeply into the meaning of life and gently embrace life’s struggles and setbacks, woven with warm words that stay close to the heart.

This work will light a quiet beacon in the hearts of those standing at life’s crossroads or holding feelings for someone dear.

Close your eyesHirai Ken2rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

When I wake up in the morning, I can feel the empty shell of the person I once loved lying beside me.

This song by Ken Hirai portrays that sudden sense of loss that visits in ordinary, fleeting moments.

Close your eyes and memories of happier days return in vivid detail, but open them and there’s no one there.

That inescapable reality pierces your heart, doesn’t it? The longer you spent together, the more indelible the memories become—how painfully ironic.

Released in April 2004, the song topped the Oricon Yearly Chart as the theme for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” For those who have gone through the profound parting of divorce and now simply want to dwell in their sorrow, this is a song that quietly stays by your side.

#302Hirai Ken3rank/position

Ken Hirai '#302' MUSIC VIDEO

People often say, “It’s cowardly to be kind when someone is at their weakest!” Even so, this song portrays a straightforward love that simply wants to support the other person no matter what.

The message—“I’ll stay by your side until the day you overcome your sorrow and sever your lingering attachments”—hits you right in the heart.

If you’re in the same position as the song’s protagonist, please give it a listen.

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Hane Keisuke

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You are my friend.Hirai Ken4rank/position

Ken Hirai – You Are My Friend

A masterpiece with Ken Hirai’s voice resonating in your heart! The lyrics are great, of course, and the wistful melody is perfect for lonely moments—definitely worth a listen.

The melody is simple, so even people who aren’t confident singers can sing it well.

It’s a song that will make you want to see your friends.

Dear daysHirai Ken5rank/position

Ken Hirai Live at Hong Kong APM Performing “Itoshiki Hibi yo” – 2011-06-09

This is a classic by Ken Hirai, one of the greatest vocalists who has produced countless masterpieces.

Among his songs, this one features relatively gentle pitches that showcase his smooth, sustained vocals.

It’s perfect for those who want to study with focus and is recommended for anyone who wants to listen to music while calming the mind.

Grandfather’s ClockHirai Ken6rank/position

Ken Hirai / Grandfather's Clock

The more you listen, the more it helps you grow: Ken Hirai’s “Grandfather’s Clock.” Ken Hirai’s masculine, soaring vocals highlight the song’s appeal.

Released in 2002, this smash hit won Song of the Year at the 17th Japan Gold Disc Awards.

POP STARHirai Ken7rank/position

Ken Hirai 'POP STAR' Music Video

Ken Hirai’s “POP STAR” starts right from the chorus, brimming with a sparkling image that makes you feel happy from the get-go.

Released in 2005 as his 23rd single, it’s a fan favorite.

It’s a track packed to the brim with the glittering feel of an idol song and the poppiness promised by its title, the kind of song that can lift your spirits when you’re down and leave you smiling by the end.

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utatane

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