Kenshi Yonezu Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Pale BlueYonezu Kenshi11rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Pale Blue / Kenshi Yonezu

It’s a poignant love ballad written as the theme song for the drama “Rikokatsu.” The track is by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, also known under his Vocaloid producer name Hachi, and it was released in 2021 as his 11th single.

It’s a profoundly rich piece, with majestic strings that linger in your ears.

Yonezu’s emotive singing perfectly matches the sound.

The lyrics, filled with the wish for someone not to leave and to stay by your side forever, are another major draw.

This is exactly what it means to have your heart tighten.

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Araki Jakkan

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AzaleaYonezu Kenshi12rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Azalea

A song by Kenshi Yonezu written as the theme for the Netflix drama “Sayonara no Tsuzuki.” Reflecting the story of meeting a stranger who has inherited the heart of a lost lover, it portrays the sorrow of losing someone beloved and the hope that life carries on nonetheless.

Blending delicate piano melodies with electronic elements in a modern ballad style, it was released in November 2024.

In step with the drama’s narrative, it centers on themes of inherited memories and unwavering love, resonating with the sentiment embodied in the white azalea’s language of flowers: “fulfilled love.” It is a gentle companion for those who have lost someone dear or wish to heal the pain of heartbreak.

spring thunderYonezu Kenshi13rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Spring Thunder

This song likens the storm dwelling in one’s heart to spring thunder.

It was included on the album BOOTLEG and released in November 2017.

It portrays powerful, ineffable feelings and a deep yearning for a lover.

Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive worldview and the melodies he weaves captivate listeners.

It’s a recommended track for those starting a new chapter in life or struggling with love.

When you want to feel the complex emotions that arise with the arrival of spring, give this song a listen.

Yonezu’s vocals will surely move your heart.

LADYYonezu Kenshi14rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – LADY

Kenshi Yonezu wrote “LADY” as an original song for a Japan Coca-Cola Georgia commercial.

It portrays the tedium of everyday life that repeats as if it were a given, and conveys that, in fact, it’s something irreplaceable.

Matching the theme, the song weaves in various elements of repetition throughout, including tightly rhymed lyrics.

Another highlight is how those repetitions gradually change toward the end, aligning with the song’s theme.

Try listening for which parts are being repeated.

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yamamoto

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Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi15rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

This is a track whose beautiful, fleeting sound and lyrics—portraying the aching feelings of two childhood companions who grow apart as they become adults—strike straight at the heart.

Included on singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu’s album BOOTLEG, released in October 2017, the song also drew major attention for featuring actor Masaki Suda as a guest vocalist.

It contrasts the past, when they laughed together without a care, with the present, as they each walk their own path.

Its message—suggesting a bond that remains deep inside no matter how much time passes—gently encourages men setting out for different places.

After graduation, when you feel anxious or lonely about a new life ahead, why not listen to it while reminiscing about an old friend?

paprikaFoorin×Yonezu Kenshi16rank/position

[Paprika] Dance Music Video | Foorin × Kenshi Yonezu | NHK

A collaborative song by Foorin and Kenshi Yonezu that brightly sings of children’s dreams and hopes.

The cheerful, energetic voices of the kids and the festive, lively sound create a work that gently resonates with the heart.

The lyrics charmingly depict nature and the changing seasons, imbued with feelings for loved ones and a shining sense of anticipation for the future.

Released in August 2018, it is also known as an official song of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Beloved by a wide range of generations from children to adults, it won the 61st Japan Record Award in December 2019.

It’s a heartwarming track perfect for seasonal transitions, taking a new step forward, or spending special moments with someone important.