Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

My Dear EllieHirai Ken64rank/position

Ken Hirai - Itoshi no Ellie

Ken Hirai possesses a voice that shines in ballads.

It’s no exaggeration to say that singing ballads is his destiny—he has a magnetic pull that lets him make one leisurely song after another entirely his own.

“Itoshi no Ellie” is one such song.

It seems to bring out even more poignancy than the original, with feelings for a beloved lover gradually welling up.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

gummy

Report a problem

I love you.Hirai Ken65rank/position

Ken Hirai “Aishiteru” Music Video

This song is filled with a heart-wrenching, sorrow-laden “I love you”: Ken Hirai’s ‘Aishiteru.’ Released in 2010, it’s his 33rd single.

The track was used as the theme song for the film ‘Ghost: Mou Ichido Dakishimetai,’ the Japanese remake that drew attention for its American original.

It’s a poignant piece about thinking of someone you can’t forget, with the “I love you” that person once said lingering in your heart.

The feelings for someone who has passed away come through with painful clarity.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

playing catchHirai Ken66rank/position

Catch Ball ☆ Ken Hirai @2000 ★ Kamakura Great Buddha Acoustic LIVE

Catch Ball,” said to be a song Ken Hirai wrote about his own father.

After being included on the 1996 album “Stare At,” it was also featured as a B-side on the 1997 single “HEAT UP.” It’s a song that inspires you to resolve to do your best so you can properly respond to a father who always cared about you.

With its simple, gentle melody, it’s easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

Try singing it while thinking of your own parents.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

canvasHirai Ken67rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Canvas' MUSIC VIDEO

Canvas weaves words like painting to capture the faint, bittersweet memories nestled in the precious days of youth.

Released in 2008 as a double A-side single along with “You Are Su-te-ki ♡,” this song was chosen as the theme for the drama Honey and Clover.

Since it spans a relatively wide vocal range, you’ll want to pay some attention to key selection.

Overall, the lyrics flow gently and unhurriedly, making the melody itself easy to sing.

If you’d like to try a song with a broader range, this makes a great entry point.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

Valentine KissHirai Ken68rank/position

Funny Valentine of Ken Hirai

The song he’s singing in the music video for Ken Hirai’s 2009 album “Ken’s Bar II”—an album brimming with a suave, mature charm and a smooth, mellow vibe—is “Valentine Kiss.” Like “Grandfather’s Clock,” it’s a song that really showcases Hirai’s signature style.

World’s EndHirai Ken69rank/position

World's End – Ken Hirai

A song included on the 2001 album “gaining through losing.” It’s a great pick for a quietly spent, solo Halloween.

Ken Hirai’s vocals gently yet passionately convey the rising feelings for a woman kept in one’s heart—that’s the charm.

Emotions so intense they could turn you into a monster; for Halloween, that’s okay, isn’t it?

Do I love you the most in the world?Hirai Ken70rank/position

Ken Hirai - Do I love you the most in the world?

This is a track included on the fifth album, “LIFE is…”.

Its charm lies in its breezy lyrics that almost betray the jazzy intro.

The fresh, unpretentious cynicism is utterly charming.

In terms of vibe, it’s something I could recommend to fans of Kenji Ozawa as well.