Moriyama Naotaro Popular Song Rankings [2026]

If being alive is painfulMoriyama Naotaro1rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – If Being Alive Is Painful

This is a heartwarming song by Naotaro Moriyama that stands by people facing life’s hardships and struggles.

Released in August 2008, it frankly portrays the difficulties of living while suggesting a light of hope.

Although parts of the lyrics sparked debate, it also drew attention when Moriyama himself asked listeners to “please listen to it to the end.” With lyrics that carry a bright outlook for the future, it’s perfect for celebrations of longevity.

It’s an ideal song for moments when you want to look back on life’s joys and sorrows and find hope for the road ahead.

The End of SummerMoriyama Naotaro2rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – Natsuno Owari

When it comes to the Summer Koshien, many people probably think of this song alongside the passionate battles of the high school players.

Sung by Naotaro Moriyama, it’s a classic ballad that vividly captures the wistful feeling of summer slipping away.

Released as a single in August 2003, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Ikutsumo no Kawa o Koete Umareta Kotobatachi.” At first listen, it sounds like a love song about someone far away, but the fact that it also carries a prayer for peace adds depth to the piece.

Chosen as the ending theme for the 85th “Nettou Koshien,” it moved many to tears.

It’s a song you’ll want to play at summer’s end, quietly basking in your memories.

Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro3rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – “Sakura (2019)” Music Video

Since the start of the Reiwa era, many new graduation songs that leave a lasting impression have emerged, but one that stands out in particular is Naotaro Moriyama’s “Sakura (2019).” Surpassing its 2002 hit, this newly arranged version was also chosen as the theme song for a drama starring Mitsuki Takahata.

With a melody as radiant as cherry blossoms in bloom and tinged with the pathos of petals falling, it symbolizes both parting and the beginning of a new life.

Its moving vocals leave a deep impression on listeners.

It’s a perfect choice for the graduation season of the Reiwa era, a song that will color many memories.

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro4rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

As a song that colors the farewells of spring, many people likely think of this signature track by Naotaro Moriyama.

It originally appeared in 2002 as a band piece on the mini-album “Kawaita Uta wa Sakana no Esa ni Chodo Ii,” but it was transformed into a solo vocal style with piano accompaniment and released as a single in March 2003.

Widely loved as the ending theme of “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” it became a long-running hit, reaching number one on the charts in its ninth week after release.

Inspired by a friend’s departure, the song is more than just a farewell—it carries a promise of reunion someday.

Play it at a workplace send-off or when seeing off dear friends, and it’s sure to inspire warm emotion and heartfelt gratitude.

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro5rank/position

Sakura

This song, a massive hit in 2003, is a masterpiece that depicts parting and reunion through the beauty and transience of cherry blossoms.

Naotaro Moriyama’s clear vocals and the simple, piano-centered arrangement resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which liken cherry blossoms scattering at the very moment they are in full bloom to the turning points of life, evoke both the poignancy of a departure and a forward-looking hope.

Chosen as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizai-ki,” it sold over one million copies.

In 2019, it was revived with a new arrangement as the theme song for the drama “同期のサクラ” (Synchrony’s Sakura), and it continues to be loved across generations.

Sung at a graduation ceremony—one of life’s important milestones—it will etch memories with friends and a resolve for the future even more deeply.

poopMoriyama Naotaro6rank/position

Unco

Naotaro Moriyama is also known for having many comic songs.

Among them, the masterpiece that has put smiles on countless listeners’ faces is this classic, “Unko.” The vocal line in this piece isn’t exactly easy.

Of course, it depends on what key you set it in, but in many cases falsetto also comes into play.

That said, this work boasts an overwhelmingly short length compared to his other songs.

Its difficulty is around average, but if you give your all to the vocal part—which lasts only about 30 seconds—scoring a perfect 100 isn’t just a dream!

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rainbowMoriyama Naotaro7rank/position

Niji (Naotaro Moriyama)

This is a choral piece written specifically as the set work for the Junior High School Division of the 2006 NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Naotaro Moriyama and Omodaka Takashi handled the lyrics and composition, creating it with the intent of delivering it to junior high school students across the country.

The lyrics, which symbolically depict a fleeting scene after the rain, view parting not only as a loss but also as something paired with encounters and new beginnings.

The warm, folk-based melody is designed so that singers can savor the words and align their breathing, and it’s also appealing in how, when performed as a chorus, each part can support the others to easily create a resonant sound.

The piece was included in the first-press limited edition of the album “Kazamachi Kousaten,” released in November 2006, and a newly recorded version was later featured on the 15th-anniversary best-of collection “Daikessakusent” in 2016.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students standing at the milestone of graduation, singing as they reflect on their days so far and take a step toward the future.