Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 30s: timeless Japanese hits that touch the heart

Dear Sir/Madam,Hakubi

Hakubi – Dear Sir/Madam [Music Video]

This is a song by Hakubi, a three-piece rock band from Kyoto, that feels like reading aloud a letter that will never reach a loved one.

It’s said to depict member Katagiri’s feelings for her late grandmother, and the sorrow and gratitude come across with striking realism.

The way the words are densely packed, almost like spoken narration, evokes an unvarnished outpouring of emotion and the sense of feelings that can’t quite be organized.

While the piano-centered sound emphasizes the sadness and leaves a strong impression, the gradual build in intensity also conveys a resolve to move forward while holding those memories close.

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kappamaki

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guidelinesUru

[Official] Uru “Kokoroe” – Theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m. drama “Kazama Kojin: Kyojo 0”

Singer-songwriter Uru has attracted attention as a “mysterious singer” ever since her debut, due to keeping her detailed profile private.

Her 13th single, Kokoroe—released as a double A-side with Kami Hitoe—was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Kazama Kokin – Kyōjō 0 -.” The contrast between her gentle, transparent vocals and the delicate piano sound creates a comforting feel that makes you want to keep listening.

With its dramatic melody line, it feels great to sing and is a ballad number many would love to hear women perform at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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I love you more than anyone.Furuchi Toko

Toko Furuuchi “Even Though I Love You More Than Anyone” Official Music Video

Toko Furuuchi’s classic song “Dare Yori Suki Nanoni” (“Even Though I Love You More Than Anyone”).

For those in their late 30s, this track is likely to be deeply nostalgic.

While it’s categorized as J-pop, it features phrases here and there that are close to Black music—especially the neo-soul genre.

It’s characterized by a calm vocal line, typical of neo-soul, and a relatively narrow range, making it an easy song to sing for women with lower voices.

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Ryo

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First LoveUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – First Love

A youthful love song by Hikaru Utada, whose lyrical piano tones and crystalline vocals sink deep into the heart.

The sorrow of parting and precious memories are woven together with care, and the recollection of first love returns like a film playing inside your mind.

Many will relate to the protagonist’s feeling that, even if a new romance comes along after the end of one, they can’t forget their first love.

Released in March 1999 on the album “First Love,” it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Majo no Jōken” broadcast the same year.

It’s a song that truly stays by the side of anyone who has experienced farewell with someone dear and is trying to move forward while holding those memories deep in their heart.

youUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada 'Anata'

A song in which Hikaru Utada’s voice, brimming with deep love and tenderness, warmly embraces the listener’s heart.

It begins with a quiet piano melody, and the majestic sound woven by the strings beautifully expresses the depth of feelings for a loved one.

Released digitally in December 2017, this track was written as the theme song for the film “DESTINY: The Tale of Kamakura,” and is said to depict a mother’s cherished feelings for her child.

It’s also popular at weddings and makes a perfect gift as a song that conveys heartfelt emotions at moments when you want to deepen your bond with someone you love.