Recommended love songs for men in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks.

Let’s trade kisses instead of talking about love.WANDS

WANDS - Let's share a kiss rather than talk about love

It was released in 1993 as WANDS’ fifth single.

It is the only WANDS single to top the Oricon chart for four consecutive weeks and marked their third straight million-seller.

The song was used in the “Boutique JOY” commercial, and it also drew attention in 2011 when Acid Black Cherry covered it.

more than anyoneBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Stronger Than Anyone -Lyric Video- (Theme song for the film “Hold Me Tighter Than Anyone”)

A poignant longing wrapped in kindness strikes the heart in this ballad by BE:FIRST.

While yearning for closeness with a loved one, the vivid lyrics portray a man’s struggle to keep his distance because of mental illness, along with the feelings that remain unchanged.

The richly expressive vocals of all the members and the melody beautifully color the story’s world.

Included on the single “Spacecraft / Sailing,” released on February 5, 2025, the song was also selected as the theme for the film “Hold Me Tighter Than Anyone,” which premiered that February.

This piece invites deep reflection on the meaning of continuing to care for someone important and on human connection.

It is recommended for those wrestling with feelings for someone they love, or for anyone seeking a touching ballad that resonates with the heart.

cherrySpitz

Spitz / Cherry

With its melodious sound and lyrical lyrics, this masterpiece gently stays close to the heart.

While looking back on the days of a bygone youth, the protagonist’s resolve to keep moving forward carries a warmth that invites everyone’s empathy.

Released in April 1996 and reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts, the song was also included on the album “Indigo Chiheisen,” and has been featured in NTT East’s TV commercials since 2019.

This piece is perfect for moments when you want to take a new step forward while cherishing memories with someone special, or when you feel like linking arms with friends and singing together—any time you need a boost of positivity.

HELLOMasaharu Fukuyama

HELLO / Masaharu Fukuyama

Released in 1995 as Masaharu Fukuyama’s 10th single, it was used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Wednesday drama “The Best Unrequited Love.” It sold a total of 1.

87 million copies, achieving million-seller status.

Among Fukuyama’s singles, it is his second best-selling track, and it’s a positive song themed around unrequited love.

dearestMasaharu Fukuyama

Masaharu Fukuyama – Beloved (Full ver.)

Produced in October 2008 as the theme song for the film “The Devotion of Suspect X,” this gem of a ballad portrays deep affection and the ache of parting.

While anticipating farewell to a dreamlike presence, it sings of the fragility and beauty of continuing to love.

The pure love that Tetsuya Ishigami, a character in the story, holds for Yasuko Hanaoka is expressed through the delicate words crafted by Masaharu Fukuyama, and the song was also used in Toshiba’s LCD TV “REGZA” commercial.

As the unit KOH+ with Kou Shibasaki, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Fukuyama later included his own version on the album “Zankyo.” It is a supreme masterpiece that accompanies adult romance—perfect for quietly savoring a drink in a night lounge.

I want you so badlyZYYG

Commercial (ZYYG – I Want You So Badly) Suntory Dynamic

It was released in 1993 as ZYYG’s debut single.

The song was used in a Suntory Beer “Dynamic” commercial featuring Hidekazu Akai, and it became ZYYG’s biggest hit.

The lyrics were written by Sho Uesugi of WANDS, and the music was composed by Tetsuro Oda, making it a classic.

Embracing SummerTUBE

TUBE “Embrace the Summer” MUSIC VIDEO

Released in 1994 as TUBE’s 18th single, this song was used in a commercial for the Toyota Corolla Ceres.

It reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became a million seller.

It remains a highly popular, refreshing summer tune.