Great songs recommended for people in their 30s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
I believe everyone has someone they want to thank.Songs that sing about gratitude are all wonderful, aren’t they?It doesn’t matter who that person is!Your mother, father, family, friends, partner, seniors or juniors—there are so many, I’m sure.I hope you’ll listen while thinking of that special person.
Great songs recommended for people in their 30s. Classic and popular Japanese tracks (1–10)
I AM YOUR SINGERSazan Ōrusutāzu
A monumental work by Southern All Stars that, on the major milestone of their 30th anniversary, boldly proclaims deep gratitude to fans and hope for the future.
It features a celebratory melody infused with electronic sounds, wrapping you in an uplifting exhilaration that makes your heart dance just by listening.
Released as a single in August 2008, many will remember it playing on TV as the song for au’s “LISMO” commercial at the time.
It also came during a period just before their hiatus, and the song resonates deeply as a heartfelt “thank you” from the members to their listeners.
When you find yourself in a position of responsibility at work or at home and feel a moment of loneliness, listening to it will surely encourage you with the same passion of that era, reminding you that you’re not alone.
Be sure to check it out.
Thank UHamasaki Ayumi
Ayumi Hamasaki, who led the music scene of the Heisei era and still radiates overwhelming charisma.
This work is a warm medium ballad imbued with deep gratitude and affirmation not only for a specific person, but for everyone living under the same sky.
Composed by Tetsuya Komuro, the song is also included on the album “Love songs,” released in December 2010.
Although it had no notable tie-in promotions, it has been cherished by fans so much that it even lent its name to a tour title.
Why not listen to it in the quiet moments of everyday life, layering your feelings of “thank you” for the people who stay by your side?
Hot TopicAwich
This track by Awich features mellow rap that shines over an urban, atmospheric sound.
Released as a single in October 2024, it conveys a strong resolve to stay true to oneself without yielding to unfair treatment or societal pressures.
It’s a stylish yet strong-willed number you’ll want to play when reflecting at the end of the day or when you need a boost for tomorrow.
hindsightRIP SLYME
RIP SLYME is a five-member hip-hop group made up of four MCs and one DJ.
This work, which marks their 25th anniversary year, is sure to resonate especially with those who’ve learned to enjoy music differently than they did in their youth.
Riding a comfortable mid-tempo beat, the members trade verses like they’re chatting about their own lives.
Beneath the lighthearted banter runs a sense of gratitude for the past and a gaze toward the future.
The contrast between the rapid-fire raps and the gently affecting, melodic hook is addictive.
Put it on while driving with old friends, and you’ll surely find yourselves reminiscing in no time!
Eye to EyeSuchmos
Suchmos has long captivated many listeners with a musicality that fuses a wide range of genres including rock, jazz, and soul.
How about their lead track Eye to Eye from the EP Sunburst, completed after a long hiatus? The song sings of a steadfast resolve to rise again, carrying one’s own pride in their heart.
It’s so characteristic of them to bottle a quietly burning intensity within such a refined ensemble.
Be sure to give it a deep, attentive listen.
skirtaiko
Singer-songwriter aiko continues to portray the delicate nuances of love with razor-sharp lyrics and a one-of-a-kind melody.
This song conveys a bittersweet yet resolute vow to never wear again a piece of clothing bound to a special memory.
The unforgettable recollections hidden beneath its sound may gently touch the drawers of the heart that each listener carries.
It’s one of the tracks on her 16th major-label album, “Zanshin Zansho,” and also serves as the opening theme for the TV anime “Apocalypse Hotel.” A bitter yet beautiful pop number.
blinkAwesome City Club
Awesome City Club captivates with their refined sound woven by male and female twin vocals.
“Matataki” is a piece they released in April 2021.
This song warmly encourages those moving toward the future.
It sings of a sparkling hope that keeps you facing forward, even as you experience meetings and partings.
Even on days when you’re battered by a downpour of words, the message that it will become a story uniquely your own resonates deeply.
It’s the perfect anthem for taking a new step—and it’s also great for relaxing nighttime listening.
Make it through a lonely nightLucky Kilimanjaro
The lead track from Lucky Kilimanjaro’s major-label debut EP, “HUG.” Released in November 2018, the song captures the exhilaration of breaking free from a night spent alone, set to a polished dance beat.
Its lyrics depict loneliness and anxiety through everyday language, creating a sound that feels close to listeners’ daily lives.
A stylish dance number perfect for the slightly weary walk home.
dancerVaundy
This track is also known for being praised by music producer Junji Ishiwatari as an example of the “aesthetics of subtraction.” An ensemble built from the bare minimum—rhythm, bass, and vocals—creates a sophisticated mood.
The lyrics capture the aching feeling of being unable to forget a past love and wishing for a second chance.
The melody line, as if bottling up frustration, leaves a strong impression.
Released in November 2021, it was later included on the album ‘replica.’
Indomitable Flowerjo0ji
A track by jo0ji that mirrors Tottori’s serene landscapes in music.
Originally written to encourage a friend who was feeling down, its gentle gaze can be felt throughout the melody.
The formative experience of noticing the beauty of fallen cherry blossoms while looking down led to a warm perspective that affirms the clumsy yet earnest act of living.
Released in August 2022, the song was later included on the EP “475” and the album “Aeka.” With its sincere vocals that quietly comfort a weary heart, it’s a number I’d recommend to adults.