A Special Feature on ZARD’s Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs
ZARD achieved nationwide popularity in the 1990s with iconic songs like “Makenaide” and “Yureru Omoi.” Beyond the straightforward, resonant lyrics, the real charm lies in Izumi Sakai’s crystal-clear, transparent voice.
Although Sakai passed away in 2007 to much sorrow, ZARD’s wonderful music has transcended time and continues to be embraced.
NHK’s Close-up Gendai aired a special feature, describing their work as “songs that encouraged an era.” That phrase truly seems to encapsulate it all.
Here, we’ll highlight the timeless appeal of ZARD.
- ZARD's Most Moving Songs and Popular Tracks Ranking [2026]
- ZARD Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- A Special Feature on ZARD’s Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs
- ZARD songs that are easy to sing. A collection of tracks known for their gentle, appealing melodies.
- ZARD Cheer Songs and Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
- ZARD Commercial Song and Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- ZARD Karaoke Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- ZARD Breakup Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Tears won’t stop with these sentimental lyrics! Heisei-era tearjerker songs
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- My heart aches with bittersweet pain! Breakup songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
Timeless and Soothing ZARD Masterpieces & Popular Songs Special (21–30)
I still rememberZARD
A gentle farewell only makes it all the more painful…
“I still remember,” the seventh track on ZARD’s fifth album OH MY LOVE, released on June 4, 1994.
The relaxed, tender sound that closely embraces the vocals and lyrics unfolds into a fragile expanse of emotion in the latter half, and the voice—so straight and pure it almost hurts—resonates deeply in the heart.
It’s a heartrending ballad that portrays the feelings of two people who, while looking back on two years together, set off on separate paths.
Perhaps kindness is something that lingers.
I want to look at your profile up close for longer.ZARD
Released in 2003 as ZARD’s 37th single.
The song was used in the “Gekkeikan Tsuki” commercial and had been aired even before its release.
The lyrics were written by Izumi Sakai, and it reached No.
8 on the Oricon weekly singles chart.
ZARD Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs Special (31–40)
Farewell still resides in my heart.ZARD
It was released in 1995 as ZARD’s 16th single.
The song was used as the theme for our film series “Reiko Shiratori desu no!” and the lyrics were written by Izumi Sakai.
It reached number one on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
You’re not here.ZARD
This is ZARD’s seventh single.
The title may be shocking, but it’s a masterpiece overflowing with a powerful melody and a sense of speed.
Around this time, ZARD’s popularity became widely recognized by the public, and I myself played this song on repeat many times, both the single and the album.
I simply love the song, and even now I still listen to it sometimes at home or when I’m out.
Turn the roulette of fateZARD
This single, released as ZARD’s 25th, is probably known to many for having been used in Detective Conan.
It’s a famous song with enduring popularity among fans and has appeared frequently on best-of albums.
I personally really liked the album Eien (Eternal), so I used to listen to this track from that album.
A little more, just a bit moreZARD
A song by ZARD about a love that cannot come true.
Even while knowing it’s a forbidden relationship, the protagonist finds herself wishing to be loved “just a little longer.” The song captures her emotions, and because the love is taboo, her earnest feelings resonate with a striking purity.
There’s an anecdote that Izumi Sakai, who also wrote the lyrics, felt saddened while singing it—an episode that speaks to the song’s poignancy.
Released in September 1993, this work compels deep reflection on the weight of unrequited love and the intensity of loving someone.
Forever YouZARD
This song is characterized by heartfelt lyrics and a warm melody.
It’s a track included on ZARD’s sixth album, “forever you,” released in March 1995.
The lyrics, based on Izumi Sakai’s real-life experiences, have resonated with many people.
Reflecting on one’s younger self and expressing gratitude to those around you, it strikes a deep chord when listened to at life’s turning points.
In September 2022, it was also used as the theme song for the film “Princess Diana.” It’s a perfect piece for anyone standing at a crossroads in life or seeking emotional cleansing.