A special feature on Mariya Takeuchi’s best songs: a must-hear collection of masterpieces for both longtime fans and first-time listeners.

Forever FriendsTakeuchi Mariya

Forever Friends (Mariya Takeuchi) by TOMATO

When the phone rings, this heartwarming song conjures up the face of an old friend.

Mariya Takeuchi’s gentle vocals and buoyant sound flip through the pages of memory like a photo album, bringing back days that never fade.

The track was included on the October 1992 album “QUIET LIFE” and became familiar in living rooms across Japan as the song for Honda’s “Today” commercial.

It was also released as a single in September 1994.

The subtle homages tucked inside will make any music fan grin.

It’s a classic that seems to celebrate everlasting friendship—perfect for those moments when you feel like reaching out to someone you haven’t seen in a while, or for listening on the way to reunite with an old friend.

NatalieTakeuchi Mariya

Natalie

A mid-tempo pop tune that sings the story of a woman who came to the big city to chase her dreams.

Its urban atmosphere, carried by shimmering synths and English lyrics, leaves a strong impression.

Released as a single in December 1981, the song is also included on the album “Portrait.” Many may remember the artist herself appearing in the Kao “Liese” commercial that featured this track.

It’s a song that stirs the heart, blending hope with a touch of loneliness, and reminds you of the time you began a new challenge.

Perfect for a drive, too!

A day that’s happy and lonelyTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – A Day So Happy It Makes Me Lonely (Official Music Video)

It’s a moving ballad told from a mother’s perspective, celebrating her beloved child’s marriage.

The lyrics portray the complex feelings of a parent—the joy of watching a child leave the nest mixed with a touch of loneliness—tightening the heart.

The song was produced in May 2008 as a collaborative commercial track for P&G’s Pantene and Zexy, and it was also included on the acclaimed album “Expressions.” It even achieved the remarkable feat of entering the singles Top 10 at the age of 53 years and 2 months.

Listening to this piece on the special day of a family’s new beginning may bring back memories of the irreplaceable days you’ve spent together and make you want to express your gratitude.

Aloha-Style Love ManualTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Aloha-Style Love Guide (Official Music Video)

It feels as if your heart gently unravels to a tender guide to love, sung over a breezy sound that makes you feel the trade winds of Hawaii.

Everyone has moments in love when they worry, lose confidence, or don’t know what to do, right? This song stays close to those feelings and gives you a push, telling you it’s okay to be yourself.

Delivered in Mariya Takeuchi’s warm voice, its message—to find happiness by walking your own path—soaks into the heart.

Released in June 2014, some may remember it as the theme song for the film “My Hawaiian Discovery.” The masterpiece “TRAD,” on which it was later included, won the Best Album Award at the 56th Japan Record Awards.

Why not give it a listen when you’re feeling a little worn out from love?

Synchronicity (a lovely coincidence)Takeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Synchronicity (A Lovely Coincidence) (Official Music Video)

Have you ever felt your heart flutter at those miraculous little coincidences—like realizing you and someone special were thinking the same thing, or that your eyes landed on the very same object at the very same moment? This song is a heartwarming track that sets the fateful synchronicity of lovers to an easygoing country rock sound.

Released in September 2006 as part of a double A-side single, it also became well loved as the song for Meiji Seika’s “Almond Chocolate” commercial.

It’s included on the album Denim as well.

Anyone in love will surely relate to that feeling of “Maybe this is fate” sparked by the small coincidences that happen between two people.

It’s also a great listen when you want to reaffirm your bond with your partner.

Slow LoveTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Slow Love (Official Music Video)

A song that reminds those of us who tend to push ourselves too hard of the importance of pausing for a moment.

Unusually for Mariya Takeuchi, it’s told from a male perspective, portraying the tender love of someone who gently watches over a busy partner.

The lyrics make us notice the happiness that’s right beside us yet easy to overlook, slowly soaking into the heart.

Released in December 2006, the track was created as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Yakusha Damashii!” The warm arrangement by her partner Tatsuro Yamashita is another draw, softly soothing hearts tired from the bustle of daily life.

Why not listen to it when you want to reevaluate your relationship with someone important?

Baby MineTakeuchi Mariya

Baby Mine (From “Dumbo”/English Version)

Familiar as the Japanese end song for the live-action Disney film “Dumbo”! Supervised in translation by Mariya Takeuchi herself, this heartwarming ballad resonates deeply.

The song’s universal themes of maternal love and “shining just as you are” are expressed with the gentle nuances of the Japanese language.

Released in March 2019, it is also known for featuring her husband, Tatsuro Yamashita, on backing vocals, whose collaboration further enhances the warmth of the work.

The track was included on the album “Precious Days.” It’s the kind of song that will gently support you when you want to calm your heart on a weary night or spend time thinking of someone dear.