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

Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Let’s Become a Family (Full ver.)

For a Japanese song, it’s on the longer side—nearly five minutes—but it never feels long.

It truly stands as one of Masaharu Fukuyama’s signature tracks.

It was also the opening theme for NHK’s variety show “Kazoku ni Narou yo.” Recently, it’s often used as background music for the final remarks at weddings.

The lyrics overflow with gratitude toward one’s parents, affection for grandparents, and appreciation for one’s partner—everything blends together into a song that genuinely makes you think, “I want to listen again!” It might ease your mind when you’re feeling worn out.

If you have trouble falling asleep, definitely try listening before bed!

Only by livingKiroro

Kiroro – Live to the Fullest (Music Video)

Speaking of Kiroro, “Mirai e” and “Best Friend” enjoy overwhelming name recognition and have remained beloved standards long after their release.

But beyond those, Kiroro has many other wonderful songs.

One I’d like to highlight is “Ikite Koso.” Set to a gently mellow, ballad-style accompaniment, its lyrics express gratitude to one’s parents and the importance of living.

As you listen, the song invites you to reflect anew on what truly matters—such as the birth of new life, the meaning of your own existence, and the preciousness of being alive.

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DreamerJO1

JO1 | ’Dreamer’ Official MV

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.

Joined handsMINAMI

[MV] MINAMI – The Hands We Held

This is a slow ballad we hope you’ll listen to when you need the courage to move forward.

It’s the memorable first track marking MINAMI’s major-label debut in July 2023.

The theme—taking a new step while supporting and being supported by someone—delicately conveyed through a gentle voice, resonates deeply.

Interweaving everyday scenes like the after-school chime and a rainbow, its narrative style—believing in the hope beyond tears—leaves a strong impression.

It’s a work that gently stays by your side on days when something painful has happened.

By your sideMirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “By Your Side”

It’s a ballad that carefully expresses sincere gratitude and love for someone precious who’s always by your side.

It’s a song by Mirei Toyama, released in November 2016.

Chosen as a recommended track on TV Tokyo’s music program “Cho-Ryuha,” it was aired for about a month.

The gentle sound of piano and strings blends with Toyama’s warm vocals, creating a comforting feeling that seems to untie your heart just by listening.

The lyrics, which let go of bashfulness and evasiveness to convey feelings straightforwardly, are sure to move you.

It’s the perfect song for when you want to say a heartfelt “thank you” that you don’t usually express.

It’s not a lie.Mrs. GREEN APPLE

Usojya Naiyo

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.”

Shizuku (feat. indigo la End)yama

yama 'Shizuku (prod. indigo la End)' Music Video

This gem of a song weaves a warmly resonant melody with lyrics full of deep sensitivity.

Delicately portraying an intimate exchange of hearts with a loved one, it harmonizes yama’s translucent vocals with indigo la End’s gentle tones to beautiful effect.

It tenderly expresses how someone, burdened by a heavy heart, finds solace in another’s presence, and it deeply resonates with listeners.

Released in February 2025 as an advance track from the album ‘; semicolon’, the song drew considerable attention.

It carefully threads the protagonist’s shifting emotions and feelings for someone dear, making it a piece that stays close to you in moments of loneliness or when you find yourself thinking of someone special.