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Ikimono-gakari Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
Many people probably listen to ballads when they want to have a good cry.
This time, we’re introducing Ikimono-gakari’s ballad songs in order of popularity.
“Last Scene,” for example, is a song I’d especially like you to listen to after a breakup.
It’s a masterpiece that stays close to your pain.
Ikimono-gakari Ballad Songs: Popular Tracks Ranking [2026] (1–10)
Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari1rank/position
Released in 2007, this is Ikimonogakari’s seventh single.
It’s a love ballad themed around marriage.
The song is filled with deep affection, pledging eternal love—from a fateful encounter to staying together for life.
In meeting a beloved partner or lifelong friends and sharing a life together, many things happen along the way.
No matter what occurs, you can feel the bond that keeps you connected.
YELLikimonogakari2rank/position
A warm, heart-to-heart anthem of support.
Ikimono-gakari’s “YELL,” released in September 2009, is a memorable song that views farewells positively and strives to find hope for the future.
Chosen as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, it captured the hearts of many students.
Its lyrics, which give you the courage to step into a new environment, are perfect for the spring season.
It’s a song that stands by not only those about to graduate or begin a new chapter, but anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
I feel like going home.ikimonogakari3rank/position
It was released in 2008 as Ikimono-gakari’s ninth single.
The song was written specifically as the theme for the Toho-distributed film “Sand Chronicle,” and its lyrics are especially striking for people who have left their hometowns and are striving elsewhere.
It’s a warm ballad that gently seeps into the listener’s heart.
SAKURAikimonogakari4rank/position
Ikimono-gakari’s debut single released in 2006.
While Ikimono-gakari is often associated with an energetic and pop image, this song is a gentle ballad that evokes the bittersweet feeling of spring.
It’s a quintessential springtime ballad that has been covered by many artists.
Last sceneikimonogakari5rank/position
“Your Lie in April” is a coming-of-age story that depicts the protagonist overcoming his trauma after meeting a certain girl.
The song “Last Scene” was chosen as the movie’s theme.
It portrays the pain, sadness, and strength of living in a world without someone important.
When I listen to this song after a breakup, I end up crying from how much I relate, and in the end it makes me feel like moving forward—just like the last part of the song.
Ikimono-gakari is widely known across generations, so it’s a great pick for karaoke too!
Thank youikimonogakari6rank/position
From upbeat, poppy tunes to lyrical ballads, the duo Ikimono-gakari continues to captivate fans with their wide expressive range.
Their 18th single “Arigatou,” written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo, is widely known as one of their signature songs, even being included in music textbooks.
Its simple message of gratitude naturally brings to mind the faces of those who have supported us.
It’s a number that’s sure to move listeners—perfect not only as graduation ceremony BGM, but also for choral performances at thank-you events.
Let the flowers in your heart bloom.ikimonogakari7rank/position
Let’s Make the Flowers of Your Heart Bloom,” included on Ikimonogakari’s album “My song Your song.” Loved for many years since its 2008 release, this track feels like a message that transcends time.
With the depth of lyrics crafted by Hotaka Yamashita and Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, pure vocals, it gently stays close to the listener’s heart.
In moments when you feel like giving up or during days of struggle, this song gives you courage and the strength to keep your own flower from withering.
Even in hard times, it will surely be there beside your heart.
Years after its release, it remains fresh—its straightforward words sink in—an emotionally stirring ballad.
Good nightikimonogakari8rank/position
If you listen to it when you’re feeling a little sad, you might be able to sleep soundly.
It’s a song by Ikimonogakari, a music group that has long been at the forefront of the Japanese pop scene, included on their fifth album, “NEWTRAL,” released in 2012.
With Yoshioka’s warm vocals, it’s a soothing ballad that’s perfect for closing out the album.
The lyrics carry a slightly bittersweet tone, but it’s the kind of song that lets you go to sleep believing, “Tomorrow can surely be a better day.”
STARikimonogakari9rank/position
If you’re looking to be soothed by gentle lyrics, STAR is also a great pick.
It’s Ikimonogakari’s first single as a duo.
Written as the theme song for the film Father of the Galaxy Express, this ballad is sung from a father’s perspective, expressing unconditional love for his son and a wish for his happiness.
The lyrics are profound, prompting you to reflect on what love truly is.
Be sure to listen closely so you don’t miss a single word.
Also, the way the sound swells in the latter half gives it a liberating feel—another highlight worth noting.
We’ve alwaysikimonogakari10rank/position
A warm melody that gently wraps around the bond with a cherished friend seeps into the heart.
It’s a cheering song that gives you the courage to walk forward with your companions, while staying close to the fear of moving ahead.
Because we have friends who support one another, we can take a new step—this song conveys the preciousness of such friendship.
Released by Ikimono-gakari in January 2012 as the campaign CM song for U-CAN, the piece was also included on the album NEWTRAL and moved the hearts of many.
Its warm vocals and positive message will surely give a gentle push when you want to express gratitude to a dear friend or cheer on someone taking on a new challenge.