Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Grandfather’s ClockHirai Ken15rank/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.

half of meHirai Ken16rank/position

Ken Hirai 'half of me' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

Parting with someone precious can feel like losing half of yourself.

If you know that feeling, please give this a listen.

This work is by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, known for many signature songs such as “Hitomi wo Tojite” and “Ooki na Furudokei,” and it was released in 2018 as his 45th single.

It was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Twilight Meteor Shower: Midlife Turn, Falling in Love” (Tasogare Ryuuseigun ~Jinsei Orikaeshi, Koi wo Shita~).

As it is a sequel to the song “even if,” be sure to listen to that one as well.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Araki Jakkan

Report a problem

Phew.Hirai Ken17rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Hot' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

It’s a ballad that gently embraces all the feelings that come after a fight.

Sometimes a small spat can escalate before you know it, right? When you end up saying too much, the tender yet warm melody and lyrics feel like they’re wrapping you up, and it really hits home.

Ken Hirai’s clear, translucent voice is irresistible, too.

As the saying goes, the more you fight, the closer you are—there are surely things you only realize after a quarrel.

Once you’ve calmed down, try sharing your honest feelings.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

KISS OF LIFEHirai Ken18rank/position

KISS OF LIFE – Ken Hirai [A cappella]

The lively rhythm that incorporates a garage-style beat blends exquisitely with lyrics themed around love and healing.

Expressing emotions that words alone can’t convey through the act of a kiss, this work was released as a single in May 2001 and reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart that same year.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Love Revolution,” it became a turning point in Ken Hirai’s career.

It’s also perfect for enjoying harmonies in an a cappella arrangement.

By singing together, you’ll feel the warmth the song carries even more deeply.

Make my heartHirai Ken19rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Make My Heart' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This heartfelt ballad, which portrays warm bonds, adds color to the special moments of a wedding.

As Ken Hirai’s first theme song for an animated film, it gently sings of the emotional connection with a loved one.

Released in March 2017, it gained attention as the theme song for Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Great Adventure in the Antarctic Kachi Kochi.

With lyrics that depict a relationship where both accept each other’s weaknesses and offer mutual support, it is perfect for celebrating the bond between the bride and groom.

It’s a song that sends sincere encouragement to two people looking toward the future together, making it an excellent choice for entrance or exit scenes at a wedding.

KikyogaokaHirai Ken20rank/position

Ken Hirai - "Kikyougaoka (Music Video YouTube ver.)"

A warm song that evokes nostalgia and familial love.

Ken Hirai’s gentle vocals portray parents watching over and tenderly embracing their child, richly singing of a child’s growth and the unchanging love of those who care for them.

Released in October 2013 as a digital-only single and used as the tie-in song for the commercial commemorating the 45th anniversary of Misawa Homes, this is a track you’ll want to listen to while reminiscing about your hometown.

Listening to it together as a parent and child may deepen your bond.

Things I like about youHirai Ken21rank/position

Ken Hirai “The Things I Like About You” MUSIC VIDEO

An overflowing-with-love number that openly and honestly sings about the parts of a beloved person that feel so dear, “Kimi no Suki na Tokoro.” Released in 2007, this song was chosen as the theme for the TV drama “Enka no Joou.” With its homey atmosphere and lyrics that plainly paint easily imaginable scenes, it offers listeners a gentle moment.

The melody flows in a relaxed and calm way, making it easy to get into even for those not used to singing.

Please try singing it with a kind heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem