Great songs recommended for people in their 30s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.

TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS 'TRAIN-TRAIN' [3rd Single (1988/11/23)] THE BLUE HEARTS / TRAIN-TRAIN

A powerful portrayal of relentlessly sprinting toward one’s goals, this signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS is set in the real world—not a utopia or a hell—and boldly declares that life itself has meaning even if we can’t be perfect.

Released in November 1988, this track, which lends its name to the album TRAIN-TRAIN, uses piano for the first time in the band’s history to create a sense of exhilarating momentum and reached No.

5 on the Oricon singles chart.

In 1989, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Rakugaki.” For those standing at a crossroads in life, this is a song that will be a powerful ally.

When you’re torn about a decision, let it be a source of courage that gives you a push forward.

Vermillionsumika

Vermillion

Sumika presents a song that captures the arrival of spring in vivid vermilion.

Singing of forward-looking challenges and new beginnings, the track gently embraces the mixed colors of hope and anxiety that the season brings.

While Kenta Kataoka admits he “used to struggle with spring,” he reveals that his feelings have changed through his experiences as a musician.

The song is featured on the album “Vermillion’s,” set for release in March 2025, and has also been chosen as the theme for Duskin Co., Ltd.’s new TV commercial, “Connecting Our Feelings.” Carried by a refreshing melody that conveys the joy of walking alongside someone, this piece will surely offer a gentle push to everyone ready to take their first new step.

Go for it!Urufuruzu

Ulfuls Gatsu Daze

An energetic cheer song by Ulfuls, with powerful shouts and an up-tempo melody that resonates in the heart.

Its theme is walking forward with confidence and courage, carrying a message to face difficulties with a positive attitude.

Upon its release in December 1995, it took the music scene by storm, as if casting new light on the spirit of the times.

The album “Banzai” also became a massive hit, selling over one million copies, and the band went on to perform in the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.

This work is truly a song of encouragement for the heart, gently giving you a push when you need a little boost in everyday life or want to rally yourself.

Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sakura, Hirari [Official Visualizer]

A heartwarming message song by Southern All Stars that portrays a gentle light of hope, themed around cherry blossoms shining in the spring sunshine.

Through the fleeting yet beautiful cherry blossoms, it tenderly sings of loss, rebirth, and wishes for the future.

The melody is as light as a spring breeze, filled with a warmth that seems to stay close to the listener’s heart.

Released digitally on January 1, 2025, this work was unveiled as the lead single from the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH.” The gently flowing acoustic guitar and soft synthesizer tones create a pleasant atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Whether you need a moment to breathe in the midst of busy days or are about to take a new step forward, it will surely become a source of comfort for your heart.

You’re My Only Shinin’ StarNagayama Miho

You’re My Only Shinin’ Star

It’s a romantic ballad that beautifully portrays a moonlit scene.

The song weaves feelings of a miraculous encounter and a vow of eternal love together with a gentle melody.

Under the starry sky, it’s a graceful tale that will resonate in your heart, making you want to listen while thinking of the one you love.

Miho Nakayama’s clear, translucent voice tenderly embraces an emotionally rich world that spins a story of everlasting love.

Released in February 1988 and crafted by Toshiki Kadomatsu, the piece reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It also left a strong impression as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mama wa Idol!” starring Nakayama, and won the Japan Record Awards Gold Prize.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of daily life and savor your gratitude for someone special.

Why not spend a calm moment immersing yourself in this heartwarming, gentle love story?

PRIDEImai Miki

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video

A heart-stirring anthem that turns hidden love into pride is delivered by Miki Imai.

Gazing up at the southern night sky, this piece sings of deep affection and resolve for a beloved, a gem of a love song crafted by Tomoyasu Hotei.

It gently speaks of the kindness to forgive one another and the joy of cherishing each other’s individuality, tenderly resonating with listeners’ hearts.

Released in November 1996, it was selected as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Doc,” generating a huge response by topping the Oricon charts for three consecutive weeks.

For those who wish to keep moving forward or who hold thoughts of someone precious close to their heart, it will offer gentle companionship—like a gift from the starry sky.

single bedSha ran Q

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

This is a wistful ballad that poignantly sings of lingering feelings for a former lover, a classic that gently teaches the preciousness of love.

As the protagonist looks back on memories left behind on a single bed, they realize that a romance once taken for granted was in fact more valuable than jewels, weaving a moving drama.

Released by Sharam Q in October 1994, the song became a major hit, ranking 24th on the year-end charts.

It was also used as the ending theme for the anime D.N.A²: They Were Once a Thing, and included on the album Inferiority Complex.

It’s the perfect track for reminiscing about youthful love while sharing memories with friends.