A playlist of timeless gems with piercing lyrics that will move your heart
There are so many wonderful songs in the world—love songs, anthems that cheer you on in life, songs that sing about the value of life—whose lyrics truly pierce the heart.
Many of you have probably had the experience of coming across lyrics that grab you so strongly that, as you listen to them over and over, tears start to flow or your heart feels lighter.
In this article, we’ve gathered timeless hits that captivate people with unforgettable, compelling lyrics from the very first listen.
From tear-jerking lines to words that give you courage, we’ve picked a wide range.
We hope you find that one song that speaks to your heart.
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- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
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- The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs.
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- [Just the Lyrics Make Me Cry] Tear-Jerking Songs That Touch the Heart
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- [A Cheer for Myself] A pep song dedicated to you who are doing your very best
- The power of words. A special feature on Vocaloid songs with great lyrics
- Songs with powerful lyrics. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Timeless songs that stay close to your heart when times are tough. Uplifting tracks with gentle lyrics that really sink in.
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- Songs that hit home when you're feeling blue: masterpieces of Japanese music
[Masterpieces with Striking Lyrics] A Gem of a Playlist to Move Your Heart (21–30)
What do you want to become?Rozarīna
Rosalina, whose warm style has been drawing attention, has released a track that’s been making waves on YouTube: “What Do I Want to Become?” The song captures the conflicts she’s felt while continuing her music career and her passion for chasing dreams.
If you’re working hard toward a goal, you’ll likely find it deeply moving.
By the way, there’s also a performance of this piece with an orchestral arrangement available—be sure to give that a listen too.
CorrectRADWIMPS
When you feel lost in life, this song might serve as your guidepost.
Created by RADWIMPS, the popular rock band behind hits like “Zen Zen Zense” and “Yuushinron,” it’s included on their 2018 album ANTI ANTI GENERATION.
The song was written specifically for NHK’s project “RADWIMPS 18-sai,” which spotlighted 17- to 19-year-olds.
Its lyrical message—“Let’s search for our own right answer”—will give you a gentle push forward.
Masterpieces with Striking Lyrics: A Gem-Filled Playlist to Move Your Heart (31–40)
DreamerJO1
This song, released in February 2022 as an anthem to support those chasing their dreams, was written as the theme for the omnibus drama Short Program, in which all JO1 members starred.
It’s a medium-tempo ballad filled with encouragement for everyone who refuses to stop moving forward, featuring a dramatic structure where stillness and motion intersect.
The lyrics portray a positive resolve to press on, carrying the light received from someone dear, and the image of continuing step by step despite uncertainty inspires courage.
For JO1, it is also a song that symbolizes the bonds among the members.
Flower of loveaimyon
Have you ever felt longing for someone you can no longer meet? That bittersweet situation is what “Ai no Hana” sings about.
This song was written by Aimyon as the theme for the NHK morning drama series Ranman.
Its simple yet powerful, guitar-centered sound and passionate vocals stir listeners’ hearts deeply.
It can also be interpreted as linking to “Futaba,” another song themed around plants, so I recommend listening to them together.
soundtrackCreepy Nuts × Sugata Masaki
This moving track exquisitely fuses a soulful, embracing vocal with a groovy beat.
It stands out for its powerful message that stays close to everyday life and affirms the importance of living strongly.
The song declares that even a life without a dazzling storyline has true meaning, and that each of us has a path where we can shine.
Released in July 2020, it was also used as the theme song for the Nippon TV information program “Sukkiri.” It is included on the album “To Us Who Were Once Geniuses” and has garnered strong support from many fans.
This work gently stays by the side of those who struggle with their way of life or values, and those who find self-expression difficult.
It’s not a lie.Mrs. GREEN APPLE
This song delicately portrays the inner turmoil of love.
It is a track by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE included on their album “Attitude,” released in October 2019.
It depicts intense feelings for someone and the frustration of being unable to put those feelings into words, with a beautiful melody and emotionally rich lyrics that resonate deeply.
Through a medium-tempo ballad, the piece masterfully expresses the inability to be honest and the contradictions within oneself.
It’s a song we especially recommend to those who have experienced the complex emotion of “caring so much that you can’t say how you feel.”
Youth DiaryRyukku to soine gohan
Ryuuku to Soinen Gohan, the next-generation artists currently in the spotlight.
They formed their band when they were first-year high school students and have been dedicated to writing lyrics only students could write while creating their songs.
Their track “Seishun Nikki” (Youth Diary) captures the hopes and anxieties high schoolers feel about the future.
Specifically, it depicts the emotions of students on the verge of graduation.
The driving melody also seems to express their sense of urgency, matching the lyrics perfectly.
In particular, music fans of the same generation as Ryuuku to Soinen Gohan will likely find it highly relatable.