Recommended for people in their 40s: Relive those days! A collection of nostalgic and stylish classic songs
For those of you in your 40s, what is the most stylish, unforgettable song in your life? Tracks with a calm atmosphere, sophisticated sound, and stylish wordplay can suddenly make you think, “I want to listen to that song again.” In this article, we’ve selected timeless masterpieces that have left a deep impression on many people—especially recommendations for those in their 40s.
Why not add them to your everyday playlist and enjoy a richer musical life?
Recommended for your 40s: Relive those days! A nostalgic collection of stylish classic songs (1–10)
GIRL TALKNamie Amuro
A stylish R&B number by Namie Amuro that sings about the irreplaceable time spent with easygoing friends.
The candid conversations that only women can share are depicted like a scene from an overseas drama.
Released in October 2004 as her 28th single, the song also became familiar as the CM track for Mandom’s LUCIDO-L.
From the dazzling strings in the intro to the transition into a groovy beat, the sound still makes your heart dance today.
Whether you play it on a drive with friends or on a quiet night when you want to relax alone, it might bring back that sparkling feeling from back then.
A Perfect SkyBONNIE PINK
A female singer-songwriter who captivates fans with a uniquely floating sound and overwhelming vocal prowess, BONNIE PINK released this as her 21st single.
Chosen as the song for Shiseido’s ANESSA commercial, it became notable for the anecdote that when it was released in June 2006, only the chorus originally existed, but due to a flood of inquiries, a full version was hastily produced.
It’s an emotional summer tune you’ll want to play on a sunny-day drive—truly deserving of the catchphrase “the ultimate summer song.”
My WayDef Tech
A signature track from their smash-hit debut album “Def Tech,” released in January 2005.
Over an open, breezy sound that evokes the winds of Hawaii, melodious rap lines resonate pleasantly.
With a straightforward message about believing in your own path and the bonds with your friends, many listeners at the time likely cranked this up to get hyped.
Despite being an indie release, the album sold 2.
8 million copies, and the song was also beloved as the theme for a Yokohama Tires commercial and as an insert track in the drama “ROOKIES.”
StoryAI
AI, whose soulful, gospel‑inspired vocals have won her support across a wide audience, released this classic ballad in May 2005.
It powerfully sings of universal love and bonds, expressing that while being alone can feel unsettling, having someone precious by your side makes you stronger.
Its warm message still resonates deeply today.
Released as a single from the acclaimed album “Mic‑a‑holic Ai,” it also became well known as the song for Morinaga’s Jelly Weider commercial.
Years later, when it was chosen as the Japanese end theme for the film Big Hero 6, it was etched into even more hearts as a beloved song across generations.
AutomaticHikaru Utada
Hikaru Utada’s debut single, released in December 1998, brought a genuine R&B breeze into the world of J-pop.
Depicting feelings so strong that your body moves unconsciously when a call comes from a lover, the song blends a mature groove with the purity of teenage years to perfection.
Remarkably, this debut achieved double million sales.
Those who experienced that impact in real time likely remember it vividly.
Even now, its stylish sound hasn’t faded at all—an enduring classic that’s perfect for moments when you want to bask in memories.
A Beautiful Burning ForestTokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra
This track by Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra—known largely for their instrumental image—features Tamio Okuda as a guest vocalist.
The lyrics, evoking the unease of being lost in a forest with no exit and a lingering sense of impending farewell, leave a strong impression.
Okuda’s slightly languid voice beautifully conveys the bittersweet world the song paints.
Released in February 2002, it also became widely known as the song used in Kirin’s “Hyouketsu Kajitsu” commercial.
With its progression from a quiet introduction to a passionate band sound, it’s a perfect fit for a sentimental night.
everything; the whole lot; lock, stock, and barrelKREVA
Despite the resort vibe, the lyrics—capturing sudden pangs of wistfulness and the melancholy of passing seasons—soak into the heart atop a sophisticated beat in this classic by KREVA.
Many listeners may be reminded of “those days” when they used to play it as stylish background music.
Released in June 2005, the track was also used as the ending theme for the TV show Debuya.
The later album it was included on, the landmark Ai Jibun Haku, became the first by a solo hip-hop artist to reach No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It’s perfect for a drive packed with nostalgic summer memories, or for nights when you want to indulge in a slightly sentimental mood.