[YouTube Shorts] Moving & Tearjerking! Popular Songs That Touch the Heart

budKobukuro

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

This work was created against the backdrop of Kentaro Kobuchi’s feelings for his mother, whom he lost in his teens.

It portrays a sense of loss for what is gone and a powerful message about moving forward and overcoming it.

Gratitude and longing for his late mother are sure to strike a deep chord with listeners.

Released in March 2007 as Kobukuro’s 14th single, the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad,” which depicts the bond between parent and child.

Its gentle vocals will stay close to your heart and give you the courage to take a step forward.

Best FriendNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “Best Friend” [Track on 15th Anniversary ‘ALL TIME BEST’]

Best Friend, sung by Kana Nishino, who wins empathy with down-to-earth messages.

Released as a single in February 2010, it was also used as NTT Docomo’s campaign song to support students taking entrance exams.

Its unadorned words of gratitude make it perfect for life’s milestones, such as graduation or starting a new chapter.

It’s often used on YouTube Shorts in posts that depict friendship.

It’s a moving classic you’ll want to listen to when you want to honestly express your feelings to a precious best friend who always supports you.

hundreds of millions of light-yearsOmoinotake

Omoinotake | Hundreds of Millions of Light-Years [Official Music Video]

A song by Omoinotake that sings of love unchanged across immense distances and time.

Released as a single in 2024, it was written specifically as the theme for the TBS drama “Eye Love You,” and became a major topic of conversation.

By October 2024, it had surpassed 300 million total streams, and it remains a beloved masterpiece for many.

Its message—that feelings don’t fade no matter how far apart you are—resonates deeply, carried by Reo Fujii’s clear, transparent vocals.

Within its bright, pop sound, a bittersweet arrangement seeps through, creating a tightening sensation in your chest each time you listen.

Give it a listen on nights when you can’t meet the person you long for, or when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special.

catDISH//

DISH// (Takumi Kitamura) – Neko / THE FIRST TAKE

This is a signature ballad by DISH//, also known for having lyrics and music written by singer-songwriter Aimyon.

It portrays the lingering feelings for a free-spirited ex, like a cat, and the poignant desire to reunite despite a sense of loss.

The unique perspective of “what if ‘you’ appeared as a cat…” really tightens listeners’ chests.

Originally released in 2017 as the B-side to the single “Bokutachi ga Yarimashita,” it drew major attention in 2020 after a performance on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE and was also featured as an insert song in a drama of the same name.

Kitamura Takumi’s expressively rich vocals are sure to bring tears, so give it a careful listen on nights when you’re nursing the pain of heartbreak.

Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

An imperishable masterpiece by Ikimono-gakari, imbued with the bonds nurtured in everyday life and gratitude toward loved ones.

Released in 2010, this work became widely beloved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo, starring Nao Matsushita.

The gentle yet powerful melody composed by Yoshiki Mizuno is cherished across generations—it was even selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

It’s also perfect as background music for nostalgic recap videos trending on TikTok and YouTube, or for moving slideshows.

As spring arrives and you take a new step forward, why not entrust your overflowing gratitude to this song?

smileAnly

Anly – Smile Music Video (2016 Release)

A gem of a ballad that gives you the courage to keep looking forward no matter what.

Sung by Anly, a singer-songwriter from Ie Island in Okinawa, the song stands out for its straightforward message of staying smiling especially in tough times.

Carried by a warm sound with the soothing tones of acoustic guitar, it gently seeps into the listener’s heart.

Released in March 2016, the track was used as the theme song for the special drama “Boku no Inochi,” based on the true story of a boy with a serious illness and his family.

With lyrics celebrating the bonds between loved ones, it’s perfect for graduations and new beginnings.

If you listen when you’re feeling a little down, you’ll be wrapped in a kindness that feels like a gentle nudge forward.

Love WindIkuta Rira

Lila Ikuta “Koikaze” Official Music Video

A solo number by Lila Ikuta—who also shines as the vocalist of YOASOBI—that portrays the confusion and flutter of the moment love begins.

Released in April 2025 as the theme song for ABEMA’s romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita: New Zealand Edition,” this marks her third contribution to the series.

The song delicately traces a heart that had grown timid about falling in love, finding courage through someone’s straightforward feelings and resolving to take a sure first step.

Its refreshing melody, like a gentle spring breeze nudging you forward, and Ikuta’s crystal-clear vocals are immensely soothing.

If you’re feeling a bit afraid to step into a new romance, why not entrust your heart to this kind, encouraging anthem?