ZARD Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Don’t give upZARD1rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

Released as a single in January 1993, this is one of ZARD’s signature songs and their first million-selling hit.

At the time of its release, it was selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” and became a major talking point.

Even now, it continues to be sung on long-running charity programs and elsewhere, so chances are everyone has heard it at least once.

As a straightforward cheer song, it carries an uplifting message, and Izumi Sakai’s crystal-clear vocals give listeners courage.

With its catchy melody and breezy pop-rock sound, it’s a great choice to sing together and liven up the mood at karaoke with people of different generations.

eternityZARD2rank/position

[ZARD] Eien | 1997

Released in 1997, it was the theme song for the drama “Shitsurakuen.” The overall vocal range is F3 to C#5.

It’s a gently narrated ballad, and even if you’re not confident with high notes, you can definitely pull it off if you sing carefully.

The chorus has challenging pronunciation and high notes, but the key is to create ample space inside your mouth to let the sound resonate.

Try not to use your throat; it’s good if you can produce an “n” sound with a humming sensation.

At this point, it can be tricky without using your breath, so imagine sustaining all the breath you inhale as a continuous hum.

Also, clearly articulating vowels is important.

That will make your voice crisp and your words easier to understand.

In the chorus, sing with higher energy.

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Kubota Mami

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Open your heartZARD3rank/position

Open Your Heart (Music Video)

A song in which Izumi Sakai’s clear, transparent voice permeates the heart.

Released in 1996, it was featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial and became beloved by many listeners.

The lyrics portray feelings about past love and emotions, emphasizing the importance of opening one’s heart.

In the chorus, Sakai’s distinctive vocal style heightens the emotion and truly moves you.

With themes of lost love and self-reflection, it’s a song that can give you courage when you want to take a new step forward or overcome past experiences.

My friendZARD4rank/position

My Friend (What a beautiful memory 2008)

This song was released in January 1996 as ZARD’s 17th single.

It became widely known for being used as the ending theme of the TV Asahi anime SLAM DUNK and went on to become a million seller.

With lyrics by Izumi Sakai and music by Tetsurō Oda, it’s a refreshingly upbeat pop-rock number that truly embodies the golden age of J-pop.

Its message—facing forward while holding both the brilliance of youth and the bittersweetness of change—rings clear over a lively band sound.

It’s also included as the first track on the album TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY, and it’s a highly recommended song that’s sure to fill any venue with a wave of nostalgic excitement when sung at karaoke with peers, reunions with club teammates, or milestone gatherings in life.

Just a little more… a bit more…ZARD5rank/position

ZARD A Little More, Just a Little More… [live]

The 9th single “Just a Little More…” was used as the ending theme for the TV drama Lullaby Detective ’93.

Its lyrics, which depict a forbidden romance, brim with a heartrending poignancy, heightened by the lyrical melody and ensemble.

The song is easy to sing thanks to its narrow vocal range and relaxed tempo, but you need to be careful not to miss the pitch, as the chorus starts abruptly on a high note.

If you sing it calmly, it’s a number that feels great to perform even at karaoke, so why not give it a try?

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Hoshino Takashi

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I’ll surely never forgetZARD6rank/position

I’ll surely never forget

A song characterized by its translucent vocals and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in November 1993, it is ZARD’s 10th single.

Izumi Sakai’s delicate voice beautifully conveys a sense of bittersweet emotion.

While carrying themes of parting and loneliness, the song emphasizes the importance of holding on to hope.

It has long been loved as one of ZARD’s signature tracks and is also included on the album “ZARD Forever Best ~25th Anniversary~.” When facing heartbreak or a crossroads in life, listening to this song may soothe your heart.

It’s also recommended for moments when you want to look back on memories with someone special.

A little more, just a bit moreZARD7rank/position

Just a little more… a bit more…

A song by ZARD about a love that cannot come true.

Even while knowing it’s a forbidden relationship, the protagonist finds herself wishing to be loved “just a little longer.” The song captures her emotions, and because the love is taboo, her earnest feelings resonate with a striking purity.

There’s an anecdote that Izumi Sakai, who also wrote the lyrics, felt saddened while singing it—an episode that speaks to the song’s poignancy.

Released in September 1993, this work compels deep reflection on the weight of unrequited love and the intensity of loving someone.