Ikimono-gakari Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari1rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Akane-iro no Yakusoku' Music Video

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

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

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

Ikimono-gakari – I’ve Started Wanting to Go Back

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 “SAKURA” Music Video

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.

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utatane

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Last sceneikimonogakari5rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Last Scene” Music Video

“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!

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sasashina

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Thank youikimonogakari6rank/position

Arigatou – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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coloring; color scheme; hues; decoration; embellishment; added flair (figurative)ikimonogakari7rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “Irodori” Music Video (Odakyu Group corporate commercial song)

This song features a characteristically Ikimonogakari, familiar and beautiful melody and Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, expansive vocals.

The lyrics sing about nurturing connections between people and cherishing the colors that arise from them.

The bright, positive words are striking and match well with the relaxed, ballad-like arrangement.

Listening to it gives you a reassuring feeling, as if you’re being gently encouraged from behind.

The song is used in Odakyu Electric Railway’s commercial, “Connected, Expanding Days.”

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Hane Keisuke

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