Moriyama Naotaro Popular Song Rankings [2026]

If being alive is painfulMoriyama Naotaro1rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – If Being Alive Is Painful

It’s a ballad whose shocking opening line makes everyone doubt their ears—and then captures their hearts.

Sung by Naotaro Moriyama, who frames the world from a unique perspective, this masterpiece lays bare both the pain and joy of living.

The lyrics, written by poet Ochanomizu Kazu around 1997, were turned into a song after Moriyama happened upon them.

Released in August 2008 as his 16th single, it also drew attention as the CM song for Shuto Iko, Osaka Isen, and Nagoya Isen.

Its paradoxical wording delivers a message that affirms “living,” one that should especially resonate with those carrying deep worries.

Rather than forcing yourself to be cheerful, why not listen quietly on a night when you want to face your heart with calm?

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)

A quintessential piano ballad by Naotaro Moriyama that I can’t help but want to listen to when I sense the arrival of spring.

Released as a single in March 2003, it has become a timeless graduation anthem loved across generations.

Originally written to celebrate a friend’s wedding, the song conveys not only the sadness of parting but also the resolve to set off into a new world.

At the time of its release, it drew attention as the ending theme for “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” and many will remember it being rearranged in 2019 as the theme song for the drama “同期のサクラ” (Sakura, Our Cohort).

Moriyama’s solo vocal style resonates deeply, moving listeners and gently giving them a push forward.

In this season when meetings and farewells intersect, why not take your time to bask in it while reflecting on your cherished memories?

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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Ryo

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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.

To all living thingsMoriyama Naotaro8rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – To All Living Beings

Singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama is widely known for the smash hit “Sakura (Dokusho)” and for songs with powerful messages that captivate fans and never let go.

His 5th single “To All Living Beings,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “Beloved You” and as an insert song in “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B, Series 8,” features striking, philosophical lyrics sourced from the Kokin Wakashu.

The opening, which begins with a weighty choral arrangement, seems to link perfectly with its message depicting life and existence.

Cynical yet imbued with truth, it’s a masterpiece that blends simplicity with grandeur.

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Hoshino Takashi

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To my belovedMoriyama Naotaro9rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama — To My Beloved

A gem of a ballad by singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, who captivates with his unique worldview and voice.

Carried by delicate piano tones, it sings a deep, earnest prayer for a loved one.

“I just want you by my side, I want to believe until the end…” Such pure feelings are sure to move you.

Included on the 2004 album In Search of New Spices, it also drew major attention that same year as an insert song for the drama To My Beloved.

Its gentle melody, which softly wraps your anxieties, will give you the push to take your next step.

DecemberMoriyama Naotaro10rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – December

Characterized by a beautiful melodic line and bittersweet lyrics, this work paints the scenes of a heartrending love.

Long cherished by fans as a hidden gem, the song was first released digitally in 2005 and later made its CD debut when it was included on the second best-of album, “Daikessakusens.” It’s a track that once again reveals the depth of his lyrical world.

His voice carries a warmth and softness that suit winter, and there’s something about it that gently envelops the listener’s heart.

When the cold wind blows, it’s a masterpiece you’ll want to savor in a warm room.

His singing will stay close to your heart and bathe it in a gentle light.