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Noriyuki Makihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Noriyuki Makihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
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Noriyuki Makihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Since his debut in 1990, Noriyuki Makihara has continued to produce numerous classic and hit songs.

“Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana,” which he wrote and composed for SMAP, became a nationwide hit beloved across Japan.

Here is a ranking of Makihara’s popular songs.

Noriyuki Makihara Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki1rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki

An anthem that reminds you of the importance of being yourself when you feel like you’re losing who you are.

The lyrics, which encourage you to walk the path you believe in without being trapped by others’ gazes, gently push you forward as you dive into a new environment.

Released in June 1991 as a single by Noriyuki Makihara, this classic has sold over 1.67 million copies.

Written as the theme song for the film “No Problems on the Employment Front,” it was also selected as the entrance march for the 1992 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Its universally known melody continues to be loved across generations.

Take a break from packing—or play it on your first morning in your new home.

As you embark on a new life filled with both excitement and uncertainty, give it a listen.

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki2rank/position

A timeless hit by Noriyuki Makihara that strikes deep in the hearts of those living away from their hometowns.

The lyrics, filled with the resolve to build a new life in a new city to fulfill one’s dreams and a warm message for friends far away, will gently give listeners a push forward.

In fact, this piece wasn’t a single; it was a track included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” released in June 1992.

Later, when Makihara’s self-cover was used as an NTT East Japan commercial song in 2006, it became a beloved standard known to even more people.

It’s an essential springtime cheer song with a warm power that makes the heart feel close even across great distances.

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki3rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai
I won't fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

A signature song by Noriyuki Makihara, distinguished by its heartwarming melody that embraces both the ache of heartbreak and a brave front.

It gently portrays memories of a former lover and the nostalgia of everyday life, while the protagonist’s resolve to move forward resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in May 1992, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “After the Children Are Asleep.” Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it became a major hit, ranking 7th on Oricon’s year-end chart.

This piece is a companion for those standing at life’s crossroads.

When you gather with friends for karaoke, its universally relatable lyrics and melody are sure to warm the heart.

THE END OF THE WORLDMakihara Noriyuki4rank/position

THE END OF THE WORLD Noriyuki Makihara with lyrics
THE END OF THE WORLDMakihara Noriyuki

Makihara Noriyuki’s “THE END OF THE WORLD” vividly conjures before my eyes two people walking side by side in the rain, caught in a forbidden love.

Among the couples who look ordinary on the city streets, there may be many who carry circumstances like these.

The way they kiss in the dark and whisper “I love you” in small voices suggests the guilt of an affair, yet there’s no sign that they intend to end the relationship; it even feels as if they mean to continue it until the time comes.

What path will they follow from here?

The thing I wanted mostMakihara Noriyuki5rank/position

The Thing I Wanted Most / Noriyuki Makihara
The thing I wanted mostMakihara Noriyuki

This is the 32nd single, released on July 28, 2004, and it served as the theme song for the drama “Last Present: The Final Summer Living with My Daughter,” starring Yuki Amami.

It’s a self-cover of “The Gift,” which was provided to the British band Blue, and it’s a warm masterpiece that realizes that selfless love and contribution to others are truly “the thing I wanted most.” Someone practicing this song in vocal training struggled with the pitch at the end of the phrases in the A section—does it go up or down? It seemed a bit tricky to memorize.

The overall vocal range isn’t that high, so if you sing with resonance in your head voice, you might be able to deliver it smoothly!

Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki6rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “Winter Begins” (Music Video) [4th Single] (1991) / Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo
Winter is starting.Makihara Noriyuki

Makihara Noriyuki—fondly known as “Makkī”—is an indispensable figure when talking about the music scene of the 1990s and a genius singer-songwriter whose name is etched in Japanese music history, leaving behind many timeless songs.

His naturally smooth, unadorned, and expansive voice that reaches listeners’ hearts directly; melodies that are not swayed by passing trends; and lyrics that superbly capture vivid scenes and shifting emotions through simple word choices—his talent is universally acknowledged.

Among his many classics, the 1991 release “Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo” is relatively easy to sing, and the signature high notes typical of Makihara are somewhat restrained, making it a good recommendation for those who struggle with high registers.

Be mindful of the shuffle rhythm, and take care to stay on pitch!

chicken riceHamada Masatoshi / Makihara Noriyuki7rank/position

The lyrics depicting Hitoshi Matsumoto’s memories of a poor childhood touch listeners’ hearts.

It’s a Christmas song released in November 2004 under the name Masatoshi Hamada and Noriyuki Makihara, with Downtown’s Masatoshi Hamada as the lead vocalist and Noriyuki Makihara handling composition and chorus.

Many people were surely moved by these heartwarming lyrics.

The song was chosen as the image song for Fuji TV’s winter event and reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Imbued with the pure kindness of a boy thinking of his parents, this work is perfect for time spent with your loved ones at Christmas.

SPYMakihara Noriyuki8rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “SPY” (Music Video) [12th Single] (1994)
SPYMakihara Noriyuki

The theme song selected for the TBS drama “Otoko-girai” is Noriyuki Makihara’s “SPY.” Released as a single in 1994, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Its cool sound and rhythmic beat are really stylish.

There’s a part in the B-melody where the melody rises significantly, but it should be relatively easy to pitch.

In the C-melody, the time signature changes and creates a mysterious atmosphere, so be sure to keep a steady tempo.

Master it and give it a try at karaoke!

WowMakihara Noriyuki9rank/position

This song celebrates the birth of new life and the deep emotion that comes with its presence.

It poetically describes a baby’s tiny hand gripping and the hope for a future spent together, expressing the depth of the parent-child bond and the warmth that comes from their closeness.

Released in February 2003, the track is also included on Noriyuki Makihara’s album “EXPLORER.” Characterized by simple yet emotionally rich expression, it gives listeners a positive, uplifting energy.

It’s a perfect song for those who want to convey their love for their precious child, and it will create a heartwarming atmosphere at weddings and birthday celebrations alike.

Happy Birthday SongMakihara Noriyuki10rank/position

On your birthday, you should be the first one to celebrate yourself! Before heading to the birthday party, the perfect song to celebrate yourself with is Noriyuki Makihara’s “Happy Birthday Song.” It was included on the 2001 album Home Sweet Home.

Though life can be tough, the belief that good things will surely come depending on your own actions is depicted through Makihara’s characteristic words and storytelling.

On this day when you’ve turned a year older, it inspires you to tackle things anew with a fresh spirit.

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