A playlist of timeless gems with piercing lyrics that will move your heart

Go for it!Nakajima Miyuki

Go for it!

This is a bold and ambitious work by Miyuki Nakajima that portrays people who keep moving forward even as they face the unreasonable realities of society.

It delivers a powerful message to those confronting challenges such as educational discrimination, violence, indifference, and sexism.

It was included on the album “Yokan” released in March 1983, and was re-released as a single in May 1994.

Since then, it has been featured in commercials such as Sumitomo Life’s “Winning Life,” and in 2020 as UNIQLO’s “HEATTECH” CM song, continuing to resonate with many people across generations.

However, the lyrics immediately before the first chorus in this work depict a chillingly realistic portrayal of human cruelty.

Liarieiri reo

Leo Ieiri – “Liar” (Music Video)

This is a sublime ballad by Leo Ieiri that beautifully captures an inner world where joy and sorrow intersect.

Included on the album “Naked,” released in February 2023, and chosen as the opening theme for the WOWOW original anime The Fire Hunter, the song was born from a collaboration with Hikaru Ishizaki.

Dramatic string arrangements intertwine with Ieiri’s emotionally rich vocals to create a piece that evokes deep empathy.

It vividly portrays, within a fantastical setting, the inner conflicts that arise from trusting someone and the emotional turbulence of protecting those you love.

When you find yourself grappling with feelings wavering between truth and lies, lend an ear to this song—it will stay close to your heart.

Why Don’t You Play in Hell?Hoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Why Don't We Do It in Hell (Live at Tokyo Dome 2019)

This is a celebrated song by Gen Hoshino that sings of a light of hope found in lonely darkness.

Chosen as the theme song for the film of the same name released in October 2013, it carries profound insights born from experiences in a hospital room.

The message—that “lies” and “fabrications” can become supports for the heart and help us find the strength to endure a painful reality—is filled with tenderness and poignancy.

While harmonizing with the film’s worldview, the arrangement shines with Gen Hoshino’s signature pop melodies woven together with elements of jazz and funk.

In the brisk sound and layered vocals, you can feel a strong resolve to face harsh realities and still keep moving forward.

It’s a song that resonates deeply with those who struggle to live yet want to find hope, and with those who, for the sake of someone important, find themselves in situations where they must tell a lie.

Live!kocchi no kento

Don't die! / MV by Kocchino Kento

For those whose spirits are broken and who are feeling down, I recommend “Don’t Die!” This is a work by Kentsu, the singer and younger brother of Masaki Suda.

The lyrics are crafted to encourage people who are on the verge of losing the will to live, using powerful words.

At the same time, the sound has a jazzy, pop vibe, which keeps it from feeling too heavy—that’s part of its charm.

Pay attention to the words thrown at you at the end as you listen.

It’s sure to help you feel more positive.

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yamamoto

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Thank you for being born.hazuki nano

[High Quality Audio] Hazuki Nano nayuta Thank You for Being Born [M Graveyard]

Hazuki Nano is active as a soprano singer, and on sites like Niconico, she also performs under the name “nayuta.” One warm yet heartrending song she sings is “Thank You for Being Born.” The lyrics are written from a mother’s perspective and express the sorrow of not being able to see her child.

Although what happened is never explained, listening to the song becomes an opportunity to reflect on the importance of family.

Another appeal is how her high notes impart a sacred impression.

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yamamoto

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Midnight ExpresswayFurawā Kanpanī

Flower Companyz “Midnight Highway (25th Anniversary Mix)”

Flower Companyz, famously known by the abbreviation Furakan.

Formed in 1989 and making their major-label debut in 1995, they’re a long-lived band despite various ups and downs.

Their lyrics’ straightforward words pierce the heart, and I find myself replaying the song over and over.

The lyrics, yes, but also the unadorned melody feels so vividly alive that it gives me goosebumps.

That powerful live feeling stirs a resolve to “live strong,” and before I know it, tears start to fall.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to again and again.

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Yuuko.S

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-ness; typicality; the quality/essence of being [X] (as in “X-ness” or “X-like character”)SUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Rashisa” Music Video

SUPER BEAVER is a four-piece rock band that captivates fans with rock sounds carrying piercing messages and soul-stirring vocals.

Their sixth single, “Rashisa,” released as a double A-side with “Watakushigoto,” was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Barakamon.

Its message—reminding us not to be swayed by passing trends and to cherish what truly matters to ourselves, not to others—offers a chance to confront our own “authenticity,” just as the title suggests.

It’s a powerful track whose straight-ahead rock sound gives you a push forward.

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Hoshino Takashi

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