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.
- [Songs with Great Lyrics] Masterpieces you’ll want to listen to while savoring the words that resonate with your heart
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- [Moving] Tear-jerking cheer song. A roundup of popular motivational anthems that resonate with the heart!
- The lyrics are profoundly good. The more you listen, the more it sinks in. Masterpieces of Japanese music, recommended popular songs.
- Encouraging songs: timeless masterpieces that resonate with the heart, recommended popular tracks
- [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.
- [Unrequited Love] Heart-wrenching Love Songs | A Roundup of Tear-Inducing Crush and Breakup Tracks
- 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)
ultramarineYOASOBI
YOASOBI creates songs based on a wide variety of literary works, and I think the underlying theme running through their lyrics—something like “liberation from restraint”—deserves attention.
In particular, the “Ah~” swell that comes in at key moments feels good in any situation, and I feel like it’s a signature element that makes a YOASOBI song distinctly YOASOBI.
The world of ‘Gunjou’ centers on the theme of setting off on a journey, addressed to young people moving beyond adolescence.
When they performed it at the Kohaku Uta Gassen, they deliberately changed the lyrics for the performance.
That was moving… You’ll have to listen to find out exactly how the lyrics were changed.
Be sure to check it out.
WishRyo Suzuki
This is her solo debut single, released in December 2025.
Centered on the message that the protagonist chasing their dream is none other than themselves, it’s a motivational song that portrays moving forward despite doubt and anxiety.
Takuya Watanabe, who wrote, composed, and arranged the track, commented that he aimed to infuse Suzuki’s sweet, glamorous voice with a strong will and a radiant future.
The emotional swell that opens up toward the chorus feels wonderfully cathartic.
It’s a perfect song for anyone embarking on a new challenge or looking for a gentle push in everyday life.
Masterpieces with Striking Lyrics: A Gem-Filled Playlist to Move Your Heart (31–40)
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.
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.
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.
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.
Insincere wordsNogizaka 46
Nogizaka46 is an idol group that debuted as AKB48’s official rival and has continued to lead the front lines of the Sakamichi Series.
“Kokoro nimo Nai Koto,” included on their 32nd single “Hito wa Yume wo Nido Miru,” is a track by 5th-generation members that has drawn attention as a song said to feel natural no matter who takes the center position.
The contrast between the delicate, translucent piano tones and the cute vocals, combined with the sentimental lyrics, stirs a bittersweet feeling.
It’s a catchy pop tune that truly befits a classic, orthodox idol song.
