Ken Hirai’s Moving Songs and Popular Tracks 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.

Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken2rank/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.

Close your eyesHirai Ken3rank/position

Hitomi wo Tojite – Ken Hirai (Full)

A gem of a ballad suffused with the lingering ache of deep, bittersweet love.

Ken Hirai’s delicate, soul-stirring vocals beautifully convey the profound longing and sense of loss for a departed lover.

Sung with the purest feeling of closing one’s eyes and picturing the one you love, this work was released as a single in April 2004.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love in the Center of the World,” it topped the Oricon year-end chart.

Its heart-piercing vocals and beautiful melody line make it a refined track for adults—perfect for a night drive or a quiet moment alone.

You are my friend.Hirai Ken4rank/position

Ken Hirai – You Are My Friend

This is a famous song by vocalist Ken Hirai, whose clear and gentle voice, spanning from low to high ranges, has gained popularity among a wide audience, especially women.

His songs are frequently heard in dramas and commercials, and many elementary school students also become fans of his voice.

Dear daysHirai Ken5rank/position

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

This is the song chosen as the theme for the TV drama “JIN.” The lyrics are linked to the drama’s storyline, and it’s a grand ballad that conveys unfulfilled feelings and love that transcends time.

Ken Hirai’s vocals resonate all the more deeply, leaving a lasting emotional impact.

Close your eyesHirai Ken6rank/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.

#302Hirai Ken7rank/position

Ken Hirai '#302' MUSIC VIDEO

This is the song chosen as the theme for the drama “4-Minute Marigold.” The gentle tone of the acoustic guitar and Ken Hirai’s soothing, ballad-ready voice bring tears to my eyes.

The imagery is wonderfully romantic, and the straightforward lyrics that confess one’s feelings are captivating.

Let yourself sink into the song’s gentle world and have a good, cathartic cry.

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Before our feelings overlapHirai Ken8rank/position

Ken Hirai – Before Our Feelings Overlap (Live)

There are countless love songs out there, but I don’t think there are many as wide-ranging and grand in their expression of love as Ken Hirai’s.

When you listen to songs that brim with emotion and hope—anywhere, anytime, and for anyone—don’t they truly warm your heart?

sentimentalHirai Ken9rank/position

♪ Sentimental (Piano Solo with Vocals) ☆ Ken Hirai @ 2012 LIVE

This is a masterpiece that reaches into the heart, by ballad virtuoso Ken Hirai.

It feels like a single song that tightly condenses the sweet, heartrending feelings of a youthful romance you can never forget.

Each and every detail is carefully woven, drawing you into the music as if you were watching a film.

Things I like about youHirai Ken10rank/position

♪ The Things I Like About You (Piano ver) ☆ Ken Hirai @ 2013 LIVE

When I listen to this song, I feel my happiest.

It’s the perfect song for someone you love.

The lyrics describe what the singer loves about the other person, and the way they mention even the little details shows just how well they know them.

Realizing that makes me feel happy.