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Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
With his uniquely expansive vocals and catchy songs, Ken Hirai has secured an unshakable position in the J-pop scene.
This time, we’ll introduce a ranking of his most popular tracks.
Since these are all well-known songs, there’s a good chance you’ve heard many of them.
Ken Hirai Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
NonfictionHirai Ken1rank/position
Life can feel overwhelming, full of absurdities and helpless moments.
In times like these, I hope you’ll listen to Ken Hirai’s 42nd single.
Written as the theme song for the drama “Little Giant,” it was released in June 2017.
Born from Hirai’s profound grief over losing a friend, the song delivers fundamental questions about life and a heartfelt cry to see a loved one again, piercing the heart with a voice that cuts deep.
You may find it impossible to listen without tears…
#302Hirai Ken2rank/position
“#302” portrays a poignant love for a woman heartbroken by a failed romance.
Released in 2019, the song was used as the theme for the TV drama “4-minute Marigold,” and the music video features Yui Sakuma and Sho Kiyohara.
Although the rhythm is set in 6/8, the melody that flows over it is very simple, so as long as you follow the lyrics closely, you should be able to sing it without feeling too anxious.
The chorus goes a bit higher, so if you’re not comfortable with high notes, we recommend adjusting the key to make it easier to sing.
Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken3rank/position
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 Ken4rank/position
A ballad that portrays the sorrow of losing a loved one and the aching yearning to keep chasing their memory.
Ken Hirai’s emotional vocals gently accompany hearts spending lonely nights.
Released in April 2004 as his 20th single, it was written as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” With total shipments exceeding one million copies, it became a social phenomenon, topping the annual charts that year.
It will especially resonate with those who, in unguarded moments, recall a past love and feel their chest tighten.
A gem of a track, perfect for adult men who want to listen alone while quietly having a drink.
confessionHirai Ken5rank/position
This is a song by Ken Hirai that explores themes of deep despair and unrequited love.
Released in May 2012 as his 35th single, it poignantly depicts, from a woman’s perspective, the anguish and sorrow of yearning for love that remains out of reach.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “The W’s Tragedy,” it reached No.
5 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It’s a piece we hope will resonate with anyone who has suffered through a love that could not be fulfilled.
You are my friend.Hirai Ken6rank/position
A captivating song by Ken Hirai that expresses treasured memories with friends and irreplaceable moments through the warmth of purely a cappella music.
Through meticulous recording work, it achieves a rich, band-like sound.
Portraying the depth of friendship—empathizing with each other’s smiles and tears and supporting one another—through a gentle melodic line, the track was released in May 2004 and reached No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
It also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Wonderful Life.” This heartwarming piece is perfect for important occasions when you want to convey gratitude to friends—such as weddings, birthdays, and graduations—delivering a heartfelt “thank you.”
POP STARHirai Ken7rank/position
Characterized by a bright melody and uplifting lyrics, this song has the power to energize listeners.
Ken Hirai’s soaring vocals gently sing of the desire to become a pop star and of love for someone special.
Released in October 2005, the track was written as the theme song for a Fuji TV drama.
It is also the only single commemorating the 10th anniversary of Hirai’s debut.
When you’re worn out by the busyness of daily life or feel like you’re losing yourself, give this song a listen.
It will surely awaken the “star” sleeping inside you.