Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Plus OneHirai Ken36rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Plus One' MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

The music video, created with a ’90s vibe in mind, conveys a retro atmosphere through Ken Hirai’s and the backup dancers’ outfits as well as the video processing.

The song has an up-tempo yet somewhat wistful feel.

It suits Ken Hirai’s distinctive voice very well.

Precious JunkHirai Ken37rank/position

♪Precious Junk (10th Anniversary LIVE) ☆Ken Hirai ☆Movie Editing

This is the debut single by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, who has gained popularity for his stirring edge voice and diverse musicality.

Released on May 13, 1995, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “The King’s Restaurant.” From the lively intro that opens with soulful choral work to the pop melody woven by his rich yet faintly wistful vocals, the essence of Ken Hirai as an artist is already on full display.

It’s a polished pop tune whose level of completion hardly seems like a debut—befitting his background performing as a house singer at live music clubs before his official debut.

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Hoshino Takashi

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RingHirai Ken38rank/position

Ring / Ken Hirai (cover)

When you want to listen to songs about despair, it’s probably because something sad or painful has happened.

At times like that, Ken Hirai’s gentle voice will surely soothe you.

I recommend Ken Hirai’s “Ring,” released on November 6, 2002.

We all live with our own complexes.

The title “Ring” likens one’s complex to a ring, carrying the meaning that someday it will become a part of you and something you can overcome.

It’s a ballad characteristic of him—a sorrowful song where poignancy and melancholy intertwine.

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zunx2P

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fake starHirai Ken39rank/position

Ken Hirai “fake star” MUSIC VIDEO

Ken Hirai creates everything from comedy-focused songs to tearjerkers like “Grandfather’s Clock.” Among his works, “fake star” is particularly sexy.

Its exquisitely sensual melody is sure to leave you entranced as you listen.

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Ryo

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Pop starHirai Ken40rank/position

Ken Hirai POP STAR

It’s a slightly high-difficulty song that really tests your vocal ability, but when a skilled singer performs it, you’ll go “whoa!” (Conversely, if it’s sung poorly, it can really kill the mood, so it’s truly for advanced singers.) The accompaniment is quiet, so how about placing it around the middle when people are getting tired of loud sounds?

ElegyHirai Ken41rank/position

Elegy (Aika) [Ken Hirai’s Heart-Piercing Masterpiece] ~My Greatest Hits Collection Series~

From the perspective of a woman who has fallen into a forbidden love, this song delicately portrays intense attachment, desire, and anguish toward her beloved.

The phrase “I want to be consumed” conveys a fervent passion that tugs at the heart.

Ken Hirai’s rich vocals vividly capture the song’s worldview.

Written as the theme song for the film Forbidden Love’s Incarceration (Ai no Rukenchi) and released in January 2007, it was also performed at the 58th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, moving many listeners.

It’s a must-listen for anyone struggling with complex romantic feelings or harboring a bittersweet love.

I want to become stronger.Hirai Ken42rank/position

♪ I Want to Be Strong ~ First Love (Hikaru Utada) ☆ Ken Hirai ★ 2002 Okinawa Ken’s Bar

This is the coupling track for the seventh single, “Love Love Love.” Released in 1998, Ken Hirai wasn’t popular at the time and it didn’t enter the Oricon charts.

It gradually gained recognition, and on December 20, 2007, it was covered by female singer-songwriter Ayaka at his Budokan concert.