Ken Hirai’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

NonfictionHirai Ken1rank/position

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO

Based on the artist’s real experience of losing someone close, this medium-tempo ballad explores views on life and death and loneliness, and served as the theme song for the TBS drama “A Little Giant” in the April 2017 season.

Kenshi Hirai himself said it “cuts into the dark side of life,” and it’s a masterpiece that expresses an earnest questioning of death and a sense of loss.

The chorus is famous, so I think many people know the song.

The overall vocal range is C3–A4, and the falsetto in the chorus is especially distinctive; if you can’t hit that comfortably, the performance can feel underwhelming.

Rather than belting in chest voice, sing more strongly in falsetto.

Try placing a hand on the back of your head and imagine sending your voice in that direction as you sing.

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#302Hirai Ken2rank/position

Ken Hirai '#302' MUSIC VIDEO

“#302” portrays a poignant love for a woman heartbroken by a failed romance.

Released in 2019, the song was used as the theme for the TV drama “4-minute Marigold,” and the music video features Yui Sakuma and Sho Kiyohara.

Although the rhythm is set in 6/8, the melody that flows over it is very simple, so as long as you follow the lyrics closely, you should be able to sing it without feeling too anxious.

The chorus goes a bit higher, so if you’re not comfortable with high notes, we recommend adjusting the key to make it easier to sing.

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SAKI

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Can I call it magic?Hirai Ken3rank/position

Ken Hirai “May I Call It Magic?” MUSIC VIDEO

It was written as the theme song for the Panasonic LUMIX GX7 Mark II commercial featuring Haruka Ayase and went on to become a long-running hit.

It’s a quiet, love-filled ballad where the acoustic guitar tones resonate with Ken Hirai’s vocals.

The overall vocal range of the song is F2–B4, and compared to other songs, the high notes aren’t unexpectedly that high, making it a range that seems singable in falsetto.

In fact, Ken Hirai sings it softly in falsetto to create a bittersweet mood, so it’s best to sing with the sensation of releasing a thin stream of sound from the top of your head.

For the low notes in the A section, be sure to raise your eyebrows and take care not to strain your throat.

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Close your eyesHirai Ken4rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

This single was released in April 2004 as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, In the Center of the World,” known by its nickname “Sekachū,” which became a social phenomenon.

Ken Hirai’s gentle voice soothes the soul—it’s a beautiful ballad, isn’t it? It tenderly sings of the deep sorrow of losing someone precious and an unchanging love, and when you listen to it in the quiet of night, it wraps you in a comforting sense of closeness.

Topping Oricon’s annual ranking in 2004, this song has a timeless appeal that makes you want to revisit it now and then.

For nights when you’ve pushed yourself too hard and your heart feels worn out—if you want to cry your heart out and release that tension—this moving number is highly recommended.

Give it a listen before you go to sleep.

confessionHirai Ken5rank/position

Ken Hirai - Confession

This is a song by Ken Hirai that explores themes of deep despair and unrequited love.

Released in May 2012 as his 35th single, it poignantly depicts, from a woman’s perspective, the anguish and sorrow of yearning for love that remains out of reach.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “The W’s Tragedy,” it reached No.

5 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It’s a piece we hope will resonate with anyone who has suffered through a love that could not be fulfilled.

You are my friend.Hirai Ken6rank/position

Ken Hirai 'Kimi wa Tomodachi' MUSIC VIDEO

This is the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Wonderful Life” starring Takashi Sorimachi, and it marks the first time Ken Hirai has attempted a “one-man a cappella,” with every sound recorded using only his own voice and body—resulting in a soothing piece.

The song’s overall vocal range is B2 to C#5, and since Ken Hirai’s songs typically have wide ranges, the key point is how to produce the high notes with ease.

As this work isn’t the type that requires belting, it’s best to keep a light singing approach throughout.

For both low and high notes, aim to resonate in the head while lifting your facial muscles as you sing.

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POP STARHirai Ken7rank/position

Ken Hirai 'POP STAR' Music Video

Released on October 26, 2005 as the 23rd single, it became a major hit as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kiken na Aneki” starring Misaki Ito.

Marking the 10th anniversary of Ken Hirai’s debut, the song features a pop, exhilarating melody and luxurious strings.

With a relatively fast tempo and a bouncy rhythm, the melody line keeps driving forward, making it highly recommended for those who love bright, danceable tracks.

The chorus sits quite high, so in addition to using falsetto, it’s crucial to project your voice confidently without hesitation.

Try singing with large, full-body movements, as if sending your voice far into the distance.

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