Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

even ifHirai Ken8rank/position

Ken Hirai 'even if' MUSIC VIDEO

A singer-songwriter who leads Japan’s R&B scene, Ken Hirai continues to captivate many fans with his strikingly chiseled features and sweet, soulful voice.

Do you know the famous ballad he has cherished and kept singing as the theme song for his concept live series, “Ken’s Bar,” which he considers his life’s work? Its lyrics, like a solitary monologue at a bar counter while tilting a glass, confess an unbreakable longing for someone who loves another—immersing you in a heartache that feels like watching a love film.

Originally a phantom track performed only at live shows, it was released in December 2000 as a limited-time single in response to fervent fan requests.

Some listeners may have felt their hearts tighten at its portrayal of a forbidden love.

With its mellow atmosphere, it’s the perfect song to revisit on a night when you want to reflect on past romances.

ElegyHirai Ken9rank/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.

Close your eyesHirai Ken10rank/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 Ken11rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Dear Beloved Days' MUSIC VIDEO

A song in which Ken Hirai’s vocals spin a tale of longing for a loved one that grips the heart.

A bond that doesn’t fade with time, memories burned in even when you try to forget.

It conveys the aching feeling of continuing to hold deep love while accepting a fate that doesn’t even allow an embrace.

Released in May 2011, it was used as the theme song for TBS Television’s 60th anniversary drama JIN: The Final Chapter.

It’s sure to resonate with those who have lost someone precious, or who cherish their bond with a loved one despite being buffeted by the times and by fate.

Nevertheless, I want to do it.Hirai Ken12rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Soredemo Shitai MUSIC VIDEO (YouTube ver.)'

Ken Hirai’s 2014 single “Soredemo Shitai” is a song that conveys the feelings of a woman who has gotten involved with a man who has a wife.

The entire music video was shot in New Delhi, India’s capital, and makes a huge impact with Hirai dressed in traditional Indian attire, dancing alongside Indian locals.

The lyrics poignantly capture the aching heart of the woman, who agonizes as she watches the man act in ways that ensure he won’t take any trace of her back home with him.

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Hamada Takuya

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Because it won’t reach / Because it doesn’t reachHirai Ken13rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Because It Won’t Reach You' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

The film “50 First Kisses” portrays a heartrending love story.

Ken Hirai wrote “Todokanai Kara” as its theme song.

The lyrics speak on behalf of the film’s protagonist, depicting a deep love that will never reach the other person.

Many lines tie directly to the movie, so you’ll relate even more if you listen after watching it.

That said, it’s still moving enough to stir your heart even if you haven’t seen the film.

The live version included on the CD features an even more passionate performance, so be sure to check that out as well.

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yamamoto

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Mr. Monster feat. AimyonHirai Ken14rank/position

Ken Hirai “Kaibutsu-san feat. Aimyon” MUSIC VIDEO

This is a lavish collaborative number by Ken Hirai, a leading figure in the J-POP scene, and Aimyon, who can now be called an icon of the times.

Written by Ken Hirai with Aimyon in mind, the song portrays a hopeless unrequited love—knowing it won’t be rewarded yet still being irresistibly drawn in.

The inescapable sorrow of it all is set to a sophisticated, urbane pop sound.

Released in March 2020, it was also included on the album “Anata ni Naritakatta” (“I Wanted to Be You”).

If you’re struggling with a futile love, this song might resonate perfectly.