Ken Hirai’s Tearjerker/Weepy Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]

Close your eyesHirai Ken8rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

The moment that poignant piano intro begins, many of you may feel your memories from that time come rushing back.

This is the 20th single by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, who continues to captivate countless fans with his overwhelming vocal prowess and expressive artistry.

Written as the theme song for the 2004 film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” it became a historic hit, topping the year-end charts.

The lyrics, which portray the sorrow of mourning a lost lover and the resolve to go on loving them in memory, never fail to bring listeners to tears.

Also included on the album “SENTIMENTALovers,” this ballad gently accompanies the heart of a man living on while carrying an unforgettable love.

On a night when you want to quietly lose yourself in memories alone, give it a listen.

Dear daysHirai Ken9rank/position

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

Ken Hirai, whose gentle yet powerful voice is loved by people of all ages and genders, released his 34th single, “Itoshiki Hibi yo,” in 2011.

The song served as the theme for the hit drama “JIN,” which portrays a doctor who time-slips back to the late Edo period, and it powerfully enhanced the show’s narrative.

The lyrics resonate with the drama’s themes—a poignant number about thinking of someone dear that tightens the chest.

It’s a song that brings to mind long-distance loves, those who have passed away, and people you long to see but cannot.

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utatane

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LIFE is… ～another story～Hirai Ken10rank/position

Ken Hirai “LIFE is… ~another story~” Music Video

For those who are worn out by everyday life, I recommend listening to “LIFE is…

~another story~.” This song was specially written by Ken Hirai as the theme for the hit drama “Say Hello to Black Jack.” Its lyrics, which encourage people striving through their daily lives, are sure to resonate with your heart.

The quiet, piano-centered melody also tugs at the heartstrings.

Note that the melodies differ between the album version and the single version, so if you’re curious, try comparing them.

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yamamoto

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LIFE is…〜another story〜Hirai Ken11rank/position

Ken Hirai “LIFE is… ~another story~” (cover) / Mami Hatanaka

When it comes to songs perfect for a wedding overflowing with love for a precious partner you’ll spend your life with, “LIFE is…

~another story~” comes to mind.

Released in 2003 by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Say Hello to Black Jack.” The lyrics portray the tendency to put on a brave face or struggle to show one’s true self in public, while unfolding phrases that feel like speaking directly to a loved one.

Many will relate to the honest feelings that well up just by thinking of the person they love.

With a somewhat wistful yet heartwarming melody, it gently envelops the atmosphere of the venue.

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mutō

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Grandfather’s ClockHirai Ken12rank/position

Ken Hirai / Grandfather's Clock

This song resonates with Ken Hirai’s warm, heartfelt vocals.

Centered on themes of family love and the passage of time, it weaves a 100-year story of a grandfather and an old clock.

Released in August 2002, it became familiar through NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and an au commercial.

It’s said to be a particularly memorable track for Hirai and even a foundation of his singing.

The single sold a total of 667,000 copies, reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts, and won the Japan Gold Disc Award.

It’s recommended for those who have experienced parting from a loved one or want to feel the bonds of family.

If you sing it at karaoke, you’re sure to be moved to the core.

ElegyHirai Ken13rank/position

Ken Hirai “Elegy” MUSIC VIDEO

This is a masterpiece whose poignant love story, told from a woman’s perspective, resonates in the rich vocals of Ken Hirai.

It delicately portrays the feelings of a woman consumed by love, expressing the intense emotions of fixation on her partner and a fierce willingness to embrace even the pain of love.

Released in January 2007 as the theme song for Toho’s film Love’s Crucible, it was also included on the album FAKIN’ POP and performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.

In 2021, it was covered by Fuyumi Sakamoto on her album Love Emotion, continuing to influence many artists.

It’s a song to listen to on nights after heartbreak or when you’re suffering from thoughts of someone you love.