Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Valentine KissHirai Ken71rank/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.

FictionHirai Ken72rank/position

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This is a song about parting with a dear friend.

The combination of powerful vocals and wistful lyrics is striking and truly resonates.

When you’re feeling down as you adjust to a new life, or when the loneliness of being apart from someone important grows, listening to it can be soothing—the relatable lyrics and encouraging voice offer comfort.

World’s EndHirai Ken73rank/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 Ken74rank/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.

When you smiledHirai Ken75rank/position

♪ When You Smile (A Cappella) ☆ Ken Hirai ★ Photo Movie

It was used as an insert song in the serial TV drama “Setsunai ~TOKYO HEART BREAK~,” which aired locally on TV Asahi in the Kanto region starting in April 1998.

It’s a heartfelt track that conveys the idea that, for the sake of a loved one’s smile, you can live without fear.

It makes you feel you can believe in loving someone, even if you’re clumsy at it.

Things I like about youHirai Ken76rank/position

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

You want to tell the person you love how you really feel, but when the moment comes, you get shy and can’t say it… This song captures that frustrating yet endearing feeling of being in love.

It’s a single released by Ken Hirai in 2007 and was also used as the theme song for the drama “Enka no Joō.” It was later included on the album “FAKIN’ POP.” The lyrics, written in down-to-earth language, and the gently buoyant melody really sink into your heart.

The clumsy, awkward figure of someone in love is sure to make your chest tighten.

When you want to renew your gratitude for a beloved partner, or on nights when you’re thinking of an unrequited love, why not listen to this track and let it fill you with warmth?

SunHirai Ken77rank/position

Ken Hirai - Taiyou (Sun) karaoke cover.

It was selected as the theme song for the TBS Television–hosted exhibition “120 Years After His Death: Van Gogh—Thus I Became Van Gogh,” held at venues including the National Art Center, Tokyo.

The organizers specifically chose Hirai, saying that he “has something in common with Van Gogh, and the image fits perfectly,” which led to the collaboration.

It is a miraculous song that portrays suffering and hope.

Fortune Cookie in LoveHirai Ken78rank/position

Koisuru Fortune Cookie by AKB48 – Dr. Capital

Speaking of “Koi Suru Fortune Cookie,” it’s a hit song by AKB48.

This track is a cover of that unrequited-love song by the exceptionally talented vocalist Ken Hirai.

He delivers the originally peppy tune with a mature allure, singing it in a smooth, heartfelt style.

Beloved daysHirai Ken79rank/position

Ken Hirai Live at Hong Kong APM Performing “Itoshiki Hibi yo” – 2011-06-09

A recent smash hit by Ken Hirai, beloved for his overwhelming vocal prowess.

Its grand lyrics evoke beautiful imagery, and his commanding vocals draw listeners in deeply.

Celebrated as a masterpiece that vows to keep loving even in the face of eternal farewell, it is cherished by many.

Paradise (BIRTHDAY MIX)Hirai Ken80rank/position

“Rakuen (Acoustic)” — Ken Hirai — Ken’s Bar, Okinawa 2002

A remix version by DJ KOUTAROU.A included on Ken Hirai’s remix album “Kh re-mixed up 1,” released in November 2001.

It features bird calls reminiscent of a southern island or paradise, along with bright, up-tempo music that evokes a resort vibe.