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.
ZARD Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs Special (31–40)
Wish upon the moonZARD
This song exudes a romantic atmosphere, quietly reflecting on scenes and memories of love associated with moonlit nights.
It was included on the 2005 album “Kimi to no Distance.” The waltz-like 3/4 rhythm is striking, and the gently pulsing sound conveys a warm ambiance.
Throughout, it portrays memories of a love that cannot be revived, expressing a blend of tenderness and heartbreak in a complex emotional tapestry.
It’s a piece that evokes the image of someone lost in thought on a quiet moonlit night.
To a city where the wind passes throughZARD
It was used as the CM song for JRA’s summer racing in 1997.
Kyohei Shibata and Tomokazu Miura appear in it.
Perhaps in an effort to highlight the summer vibe, the cool, mature duo sit with their feet in a plastic kiddie pool, eating watermelon while making horse racing predictions.
The composer is Tetsurō Oda.
Don’t forget that smile.ZARD
This song is included on ZARD’s third original album.
It was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama series “Friday Entertainment: Rolling Up the Sleeves Nurses.” It is extremely popular among fans and is a hit that frequently ranks high in many fan polls.
Christmas timeZARD
It’s a sanctified-sounding track where Izumi Sakai’s crystalline vocals resonate beautifully.
The chime and handbell motifs woven throughout evoke a Christmas atmosphere.
Although it’s a song about heartbreak, the ethereal imagery and emotional depictions lend it a certain romantic quality.
When I feel like seeing youZARD
I think everyone has someone important who’s far away, or friends from school they don’t get to see often.
When you’re with those friends, talking, that’s when you can be your truest self.
This is a song that cheers you on to keep going without losing yourself until the day you can meet again.
ZARD’s Timeless and Soul-Stirring Masterpieces & Popular Songs Special (41–50)
I can’t see loveZARD
I vividly remember blurting out, “So close!” when this 15th single by ZARD initially debuted at No.
2 on the Oricon chart.
With its relatively rare uptempo vibe for a ZARD single, it was a perfect fit for drives, and I listened to it often.
I also clearly remember it being used in a cosmetics commercial.
I really love this song.
Dan Dan Kokoro HikaretekuZARD
The song “DAN DAN Kokoro Hikareteku,” included on the 7th album “TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY.” It’s a self-cover of a track originally provided to FIELD OF VIEW, and its invigorating arrangement—starting right from the chorus—really boosts your energy.
While the vocal range is wide for a ZARD song, the key itself isn’t that high, making it relatively easy to tackle at karaoke.
Since the original version served as the opening theme for a popular anime, it’s a pop tune guaranteed to get your generation hyped at karaoke.
