Recommended love songs for men in their 20s: classic and popular Japanese hits

I love youback number

back number – I Love You

Back Number’s “I Love You” is a song that honestly expresses the desire to be happy together, even if you’re clumsy.

Released in 2022, it was chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Soar!” (Maiagare!).

Back Number’s heartwarming message of love is especially popular among women in their 20s, and singing it might just make her heart skip a beat.

It’s also a great choice for conveying your feelings to someone you like, carried by its warm melody.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer [Live ver.]

Because the lyrics have a mature vibe and the melody is calm, I thought it would appeal to adult women.

A lot of women like ballads, so knowing this song would score you points.

The lyrics express feelings of love, but they’re not too heavy, so I think it’s easy to sing.

rainbowSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda 'Niji' (Rainbow)

Released in November 2020 by Masaki Suda, who is also active as an actor, this song drew attention as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.

It features a gentle melody and warm lyrics filled with feelings for someone special.

On Billboard Japan, it reached No.

2 in downloads and No.

18 in streaming.

In March 2021, it achieved the remarkable milestone of surpassing 100 million total streams.

It’s a perfect pick for men in their 20s to sing at karaoke with friends or a partner.

Try singing its heartwarming, message-filled lyrics to someone important to you.

HeartbeatC&K

C&K - Heartbeat

A song by C&K sung over a comfortable melody that traces the delicate folds of budding love.

Released in May 2024, it drew attention as the theme song for NHK’s late-night drama “VR Ojisan no Hatsukoi” (VR Old Man’s First Love).

It carefully depicts the feelings of overcoming loneliness and pain, with lyrics that tenderly support those troubled by love.

The phrase “At least in my dreams, I want to grasp freedom” conveys a longing to break free from reality.

It’s a track I especially hope women in their twenties who are struggling with love will listen to—you’re sure to find something that resonates.

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

Haven’t you ever had the experience of “we dated, but somehow it just didn’t work out”? The protagonist of this song also finds that their romance with “you” isn’t going well, feeling the frustration of being the only one trying and not being in sync.

While they think you’re precious and it would be painful to part, they try to convince themselves you’re not their destined one and decide to break up—capturing a poignant inner struggle.

Although it’s a heartbreaking breakup song, it’s sung over a bright, rhythmic melody, giving it a sense of positivity—almost as if the singer feels glad to have fallen in love with “you.”

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

HATSUMI

Report a problem

bouquetback number

back number – Bouquet (Short ver.)

It’s a rare song whose lyrics are basically the fresh, just-started-dating couple’s conversation as-is.

The boyfriend’s desire to cherish his girlfriend is expressed, albeit a little subtly.

It’s a heartwarming, gentle song that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy when you listen to it.

Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Junrenka” MUSIC VIDEO (Original ver.)

These lyrics lift your spirits.

They directly express the feelings and situations of a man falling in love.

I imagine many women would think, “I want someone like this to fall for me.” When you’re feeling anxious about a one-sided crush, listening to this can give you a lot of courage and make you feel like you can keep going.