ZARD Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Embracing sleepless nightsZARD11rank/position

SARD UNDERGROUND “Embracing Sleepless Nights (off chorus)” MV

A song that feels like a night wrapped in poignancy.

Released in August 1992 and used as the ending theme for the infotainment show “Tonight,” this track is cherished by many as one of ZARD’s signature songs.

Izumi Sakai’s crystalline vocals beautifully evoke a sense of longing for lost time and memories of the past.

The lyrics, which nostalgically recall youthful love and days of adolescence, deeply resonate with listeners.

While portraying solitude, the song also carries a hopeful gaze toward the future, making it a perfect choice for those who want to look ahead while reflecting on the past.

Swaying feelingsZARD12rank/position

“Shaking Feelings” Music Video

This is a commercial that reminds us of the greatness of music through a scene of a mother and daughter tidying up their home.

In the middle of cleaning, the woman playing the mother finds an old MiniDisc stereo and a stack of MDs she used to use.

As she picks one up and gazes at it nostalgically, the woman playing the daughter searches for the song on Spotify and starts playing it.

Seeing her mother close her eyes the moment the intro starts and listen intently, the daughter simply says, “Nice.” Many viewers probably felt a tug at the heartstrings witnessing a timeless classic transcend generations.

By the way, the song is ZARD’s “Yureru Omoi” (“Shaking Heart”), one of ZARD’s signature tracks released in 1993.

Its distinctly ’90s, accessible melody and Izumi Sakai’s clear, beautiful vocals are utterly captivating.

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Hane Keisuke

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Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuZARD13rank/position

Dan Dan Kokoro Hikareteku

A popular ZARD number in which they self-covered a song whose lyrics they had provided to FIELD OF VIEW.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, soaring vocals and the exhilarating, fast-paced arrangement make this a refreshing pop tune that feels like a gentle push forward.

Featured on the 1996 album “TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY,” the track is also widely known for its melody as the theme song of the anime Dragon Ball GT, and it continues to be loved by many fans.

In professional baseball, it’s used by Orix Buffaloes player Kenya Wakatsuki as his walk-up song, recognized as a clutch tune that instantly ramps up the stadium’s energy.

Its positive lyrics and bright sound are perfect for moments when you need courage, and it’s also a great pick when you want to liven things up with everyone at karaoke.

I want to feel you.ZARD14rank/position

I want to feel you / ZARD

The 13th single “Anata o Kanji Te Itai” (“I Want to Feel You”), used as the commercial song for NTT DoCoMo’s pager “Palfee V.” Its sentimental lyrics evoke a long-distance romance, and together with the song’s translucent sound, they truly move the heart.

The key rises in the chorus, so some caution is needed, but the melody is simple and relaxed, making it relatively easy to sing at karaoke.

It’s a pop tune with a brisk ensemble that conjures winter scenes.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Even if I grow tired of swimming in this loveZARD15rank/position

ZARD “Even If I Grow Tired of Swimming in This Love” (1994) (Vocal Version) / Lyrics: Izumi Sakai / Music: Tetsurō Oda

The 11th single, “Even If I’m Tired of Swimming in This Love,” was released as a double A-side with “Boy.” Used as the opening theme for the TV drama “Suspense of Love and Suspicion,” the song’s sentimental lyrics and hook-driven structure make a strong impact.

Overall, the vocal range is narrow and easy to sing, but from the second verse the tempo accelerates and the key rises by a semitone, so it’s important not to get left behind.

Also, while the key isn’t very high, be mindful of the characteristic ZARD leaps in pitch that appear in the chorus.

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Hoshino Takashi

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IN MY ARMS TONIGHTZARD16rank/position

IN MY ARMS TONIGHT /ZARD 【Cover】

A song that expresses the fragility of love and the swell of emotion, carried by a gently soothing melody.

Released in September 1992, it was used as the theme song for the drama “The School Is in Danger.” Izumi Sakai’s poignant lyrics and her crystal-clear voice resonate deeply in the heart.

The longing to hold a loved one and be wrapped in their warmth is portrayed with beautiful tenderness.

Many listeners will likely relate to the two people who overcome past misunderstandings and clumsiness to understand each other’s pain.

When you want to feel the bittersweetness and transience of love, be sure to give this work a listen.

Get U’re DreamZARD17rank/position

ZARD「Get U’re Dream」【Remaking Mix】

In 2000, it was NHK’s theme song for the Sydney Olympics.

Since it was a program theme for the network, NHK staff enthusiastically invited ZARD to appear in that year’s 51st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and ZARD’s Izumi Sakai was reportedly positive about participating.

However, she ultimately declined to appear due to poor health, making what would have been her Kōhaku appearance a missed opportunity.

Like a sail waiting for summerZARD18rank/position

Like a sail waiting for summer

Let me introduce the gently embracing ballad “Like a Sail Waiting for Summer.” This song was written by ZARD and is also known as the theme song for the summer-set film Detective Conan: Strategy Above the Depths.

Its lyrics depict the hesitation to take that first step by likening it to a ship waiting for the wind.

However, it’s not a sad song; it leaves a refreshing impression.

The overall range is high, so if you want to showcase your vocals, give it a try.

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yamamoto

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Good Bye My LonelinessZARD19rank/position

Good-bye My Loneliness

Released in February 1991 as the debut single, this song captivates with Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent vocals and lyrics that resonate deeply.

While depicting feelings of loneliness and parting, it also conveys a sense of hope for the future.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “The Ideal and Reality of Marriage,” it reached No.

9 on the Oricon Singles Chart, stayed on the charts for 15 weeks, and became a major hit with sales exceeding 200,000 copies.

It’s a recommended track not only for those experiencing heartbreak or loneliness, but also when you want to encourage someone.

Savor this moving classic that’s packed with the charm of ZARD.

I won’t look anymore.ZARD20rank/position

I Won’t Search Anymore / ZARD [Cover]

“Mou Sagasanai” is ZARD’s third single and also the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Shichinin no Onna Bengoshi” (Seven Female Lawyers).

The lyrics and composition were created by a lineup of distinguished artists: Izumi Sakai (ZARD’s vocalist), Tetsuro Oda, and Seiichiro Kuribayashi.