Gently soaking into a weary heart... Healing songs released in the Reiwa era
When you’re busy every day with school or work, it can wear you down both physically and mentally.
It’s said that people accumulate stress even when they’re having fun, and if you don’t release it properly, it can lead to feeling unwell.
Belting it out at karaoke or working up a sweat through sports are great options, but some of you may find it hard to make time when your schedule is packed.
So this time, we’re introducing soothing songs released in the Reiwa era.
They’re recommended for when you’re tired or feeling hurt, so be sure to check them out.
Gently soaking into a weary heart... Healing songs of the Reiwa era (1–10)
Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri
This song captures a new side of Yuuri.
Created as his first graduation song, it’s characterized by a beautiful sound grounded in piano and strings.
Yuuri’s emotional vocals brilliantly express gratitude toward family and friends.
Released digitally in February 2022, the song is said to have been inspired by an email from a fan.
It weaves together the many feelings that come with graduation—deepened appreciation for parents after a rebellious phase, bonds with friends, and more.
It’s a perfect track for those embarking on a new chapter or anyone wishing to convey thanks to someone special.
waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze
Fujii Kaze is a singer-songwriter known for his gently enveloping sound and delicate vocals.
This piece, written as the theme song for the film “If It’s April, She’ll Be Gone,” was released digitally in March 2024.
Its lyrics, which explore themes of life’s changes and growth as well as the complexity of love, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Accompanied by the piano’s timbre, the melody feels as if it gently lifts the thoughts from the depths of your heart.
It’s a song I especially recommend to those who feel worn out by the busyness of everyday life.
guidelinesUru
Singer-songwriter Uru, whose clear vocals and delicate lyrics resonate with the heart.
Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Kazama Kimichika: Kyōjō 0,” this track was released digitally in May 2023.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to move forward without fearing failure or regret, believing in the light within yourself.
The lyrics gently speak to the importance of being attuned to others’ pain, offering comfort to those who feel worn out by daily life.
Why not spend some time facing yourself while being enveloped by Uru’s warm voice?
AlgernonYorushika
Yorushika’s song “Algernon” is an impressive number featuring delicate vocals and a melody that resonates with the heart.
It was selected as the theme song for TBS’s Tuesday drama “Yugure ni, Te wo Tsunagu” and was released digitally in February 2023.
Centered on themes of growth and hope, its lyrics, which sing of the courage to face life’s trials, are truly moving.
The music video is a unique piece that combines live-action footage with clay animation themed around the cycle of life.
It’s a soothing track that gently comforts a weary heart, and I highly recommend it.
heartaimyon
This is the 12th single by Aimyon, a female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity especially among younger listeners for her uniquely angled lyrics and songs tinged with nostalgia.
Selected as the theme song for the TV drama “Only Just Married” (Japanese title: 『婚姻届に判を捺しただけですが』), this track is characterized by striking piano tones layered over an ear-catching beat.
Aimyon’s gentle yet commanding vocals—so characteristic of her—combine with the catchy chorus to naturally resonate deep within the heart.
Released in November 2021, the song has surpassed 100 million total streams and earned Platinum certification.
It’s a tender yet bittersweet love song that women in love will definitely want to sing at karaoke.
rainbowSuda Masaki
A pledge and wish to walk through life together are woven into singer Masaki Suda’s fifth single.
Chosen as the theme song for the 3DCG animated film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2, the track became a massive hit with over 200 million streams.
Suda’s gentle vocals illuminate the lyrics’ world, conveying deep affection for a partner.
Released in November 2020, the song’s lyrics about bonds with a loved one and its tender melody resonate with the film itself.
It’s a heartwarming piece you’ll want to listen to while imagining Suda thriving both personally and professionally.
globeYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who continues to dominate the J-pop scene with his original worldview and modern musical sensibility.
His 14th single, written as the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film “The Boy and the Heron,” connects beautifully with its title through delicate piano tones and expansive, dreamlike strings.
The lyrics, which portray the preciousness of living through time as we move forward despite repeated meetings and partings, will likely prompt many listeners to reflect on their own lives.
It’s an emotional number, with vocals that convey strength within gentleness and stir the heart.