Best Songs and Popular Tracks by Male Singer-Songwriters: 2026 Rankings

aspiration; longing; ardent desireFukuyama Masaharu85rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Wishful Longing (Inspire Movie for the film “If Only I Could Meet You Again at the Hill Where That Flower Blooms”) *NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen performance song

Masaharu Fukuyama’s song “Sōbō,” released on December 4, 2023, is a work that resonates deeply with the heart.

Created as the theme song for the film “At the End of the Flowering Hill, If I Could Meet You Again,” it has drawn much attention.

The lyrics, interweaving wishes for the future, memories of the past, and emotions of the present, are profoundly moving.

I’m once again struck by Fukuyama’s exceptional abilities in lyric writing, composition, and arrangement, as well as his deep understanding of human emotion.

While centered on the theme of lost love, the song remains compelling in the way it offers a message of hope and comfort.

It’s recommended for those burdened by something heavy or those who wish to believe in love again.

An unfinished love song I’ve been working on foreverHata Motohiro86rank/position

Motohiro Hata “An Always-Unfinished Love Song” Music Video

A heartwarming love song by Motohiro Hata that gently sings of the deep affection shared by a couple married for many years.

Released in March 2025 as the theme song for the film “The 35th-Year Love Letter,” it was written specifically for a movie that portrays a husband who, after retiring, begins to learn penmanship and struggles to write a love letter to his wife.

Hata’s clear, luminous vocals and the carefully woven, tender melody beautifully capture the profound bond nurtured over a long marriage and the way one’s feelings for a partner are renewed day by day.

This gem of a ballad is especially recommended for those who feel how love and cherished sentiments evolve and deepen with time.

Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru87rank/position

Takahara Pistol / Hey, You Young Folks (Short Ver.)

Takahara Pistol’s songs are full of passion and are especially appealing for the younger generation to hear! Among his work, this track is one I particularly recommend, and it’s perfect as a motivational anthem.

You’ve probably heard it in the Sumitomo Life commercial featuring Eita, right? The part I especially want you to pay attention to is the chorus.

At first glance, it might sound like it’s saying something contradictory, but the real message is: “Be yourself and move in the direction you believe in!” Listening to this song will surely give you the push to trust yourself and charge ahead when you’re feeling unsure.

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Hane Keisuke

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BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi88rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

This is a song by Kenshi Yonezu, chosen as the theme for the TV anime “Medalist.” A passionate piece that Yonezu, a fan of the original creator, personally requested to make.

It portrays, over a driving melody, the earnest relationship of two people—one supporting and one being supported—running in tandem toward their dream.

Released in January 2025, the song is marked by a powerful message that stirs the listener’s heart.

When you’re taking on a challenge or stuck at a wall and can’t take the next step, listening to it will surely give you courage.

It will gently nudge you forward, supporting your determination not to give up.

LemonYonezu Kenshi89rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

Lemon was written as the theme song for the drama Unnatural starring Satomi Ishihara.

It’s a gentle ballad filled with a heartrending emotion that links to the drama’s storyline.

I often find Kenshi Yonezu’s lyrics beautiful in his other songs as well, but Lemon makes me feel that especially strongly.

The melody is also beautiful and utterly absorbing.

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utatane

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Pale BlueYonezu Kenshi90rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Pale Blue / Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu has many grand ballads that use strings, doesn’t he? I’m captivated by the songs that unfold with such beautiful melodies.

Among Yonezu’s moving tracks, “Pale Blue” is especially memorable.

The song expresses, in a very straightforward way, the feelings you have when parting with someone you love—conveying a powerful longing to stay by their side and a deep desire not to let go.

It’s a truly beautiful piece.

Bye, see you again sometime!Yonezu Kenshi91rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Goodbye, See You Again Sometime!

This song skillfully portrays the passage of time and the changes in life.

Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive sensibility shines through in the lyrics, weaving a story of parting, reunion, and growth.

Its message, casting thoughts toward a future 100 years from now, is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

The track was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Tora ni Tsubasa,” which airs from April 2024.

It perfectly complements the drama’s theme—a passionate tale of the legal profession.

It’s a must-listen for those about to take a new step or standing at a crossroads in life.

Its powerful yet gentle vocals will surely give you a supportive push forward.