Love songs recommended for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese hits

hundreds of millions of light-yearsOmoinotake

Omoinotake | Hundreds of Millions of Light-Years [Official Music Video]

Omoinotake’s music has the power to move listeners across generations.

This song, written as the theme for the drama “Eye Love You,” expresses feelings for someone far away.

With its refreshing groove and emotional lyrics, it drew major attention immediately upon its release in February 2024.

It’s also included on the album “Pieces,” where it has earned strong support from fans.

Overflowing with affection for someone dear, this track is recommended when you want to feel the bonds with a lover, family, or friends.

Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to warmly embrace your heart.

Like when we first metEvery Little Thing

"Like When We First Met" MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

For many women now in their 40s who spent their teenage years to early twenties in the mid-to-late 1990s, Every Little Thing holds a special place.

Back then, plenty of people imitated Kaori Mochida’s fashion and hairstyles.

ELT’s classic songs are still hugely popular at karaoke even in the Reiwa era, but if you’re aiming for a high score, we recommend the 1997 hit “Deatta Koro no You ni.” Its quintessential late-’90s Avex-style sound and melody make it very easy to sing, and since there aren’t any tricky sections, it’s less likely you’ll go off-pitch.

The overall key is on the higher side, so if you have a lower voice, try adjusting the key to suit you before singing.

MarigoldAimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyong’s songs have a timeless appeal that’s independent of trends, making them popular across generations.

“Marigold,” released in 2018, marked her major breakthrough.

Its somewhat nostalgic melody evokes the early Heisei era, making it very pleasant to listen to and a classic that resonates with people of all ages.

For women in their 40s who say, “I mostly listen to the J-pop from my youth, but I want to try singing something more recent…,” I highly recommend Aimyong’s songs.

“Marigold” sits on the lower side pitch-wise and doesn’t have an extreme vocal range, so even those with lower voices or who feel insecure about singing should give it a try!

beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko

aiko - 'Kabutomushi' music video

A gem of a love song that expresses the feeling of falling in love by overlaying it with the changing of the four seasons.

Aiko’s clear, expansive vocals gently embrace you.

The lyrics, which cherish every emotion—from the joys of romance to its bittersweet ache—resonate deeply.

Since its release in November 1999, it has captured many hearts, being chosen as the ending theme for programs like CDTV and Jibireba!?.

With its translucent vocals, this captivating track evokes nostalgic memories of youth.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel at peace or look back on precious memories of love.

First LoveHikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada – First Love

A youthful love song by Hikaru Utada, whose lyrical piano tones and crystalline vocals sink deep into the heart.

The sorrow of parting and precious memories are woven together with care, and the recollection of first love returns like a film playing inside your mind.

Many will relate to the protagonist’s feeling that, even if a new romance comes along after the end of one, they can’t forget their first love.

Released in March 1999 on the album “First Love,” it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Majo no Jōken” broadcast the same year.

It’s a song that truly stays by the side of anyone who has experienced farewell with someone dear and is trying to move forward while holding those memories deep in their heart.

romantic feelingsNanae Aikawa

Nanase Aikawa / Koigokoro (Love Sentiments)

Nanase Aikawa’s powerful vocals brilliantly capture this classic song woven with bittersweet longing and anxious emotion.

While looking back on happy memories of the past, the protagonist’s confusion about their current relationship is beautifully depicted through evocative imagery like the sound of waves and the darkness of night.

Released in October 1996, the song was featured in a Camelia Diamond commercial and became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon chart and selling a total of 1.

129 million copies.

Its innovative sound—bringing elements of folklore into J-pop—also drew attention, and it continues to be cherished by many as one of Nanase Aikawa’s signature tracks.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you can’t move on from heartbreak or when you’re struggling with a relationship with someone important to you.

I'm only gazing at you.Maki Ohguro

Only Looking at You (2019 Remastered)

This song poignantly portrays a woman’s bittersweet feelings as she changes herself for love.

Her determination and inner conflict to be reborn for her lover are depicted in contrast to the upbeat melody.

Maki Ohguro’s powerful vocals vividly express the protagonist’s pain and wavering emotions.

Released in December 1993, it was chosen as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.

Within about three months of its release, it became a million seller and has been included on multiple albums, such as “Toward the Eternal Dream” and “BACK BEATs #1.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those who can relate to the struggle between staying true to oneself and being in love.

Its heartrending melody and down-to-earth lyrics gently embrace the complex emotions of romance.