Recommended love songs for men in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks.
No matter how old you are, being in love is always something wonderful, isn’t it?
Many men in their 40s probably had bittersweet romances in their youth and drew strength from countless love songs.
In this article, we’ve compiled a selection of nostalgic Japanese love songs popular among men in their 40s—tunes that bring back memories of those days.
Listening to these songs while recalling the feelings and moments from back then can be a great way to unwind and refresh yourself.
Be sure to check them out!
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Recommended love songs for men in their 40s: Japanese classics and popular tracks (41–50)
Until My Babe-kun falls asleepSha ran Q
Sharan Q is a band that gained popularity for its original musicality, combining the essence of kayōkyoku with rock.
They’re well-regarded for their ballads, and among them, “My Babe Kimi ga Nemuru made” is especially recommended as an easy song to sing.
The vocal range is quite narrow, from mid1 C# to mid2 G#.
They frequently use a technique called ‘hiccup’ at the start of each phrase, so mastering this will quickly elevate the overall quality.
Give it a try for reference.
HELLOFukuyama Masaharu
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.
cherrysupittsu
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.
I want you so badlyZYYG
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.
more than anyoneBE:FIRST
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.
Ti AmoEXILE
A story of forbidden love portraying a bittersweet, mature romance.
EXILE’s earnest vocals beautifully capture the feelings of a woman consumed by her relationship with a married man.
The melancholic love depicted alongside the passionate melody is sure to strike a chord with many listeners.
Released in September 2008, the song was also featured in a commercial for Meiji Seika’s Meltykiss chocolate, and went on to win the Grand Prize at both the 50th Japan Record Awards and the 41st Japan Cable Radio Awards that same year.
The music video, set in 1920s Shanghai, superbly brings the work’s world to life.
It’s the perfect track for a late night in a lounge, gazing at the soft glow of candlelight and dreaming of adult romance.
Precious LoveEXILE ATSUSHI
With a warm, translucent voice, EXILE ATSUSHI pens a wedding song themed around love and bonds.
Gently singing of the importance of affection felt in days walked together and vows to the future, this work carefully portrays the delicate emotions of a romance born in everyday life transforming into eternal love.
Released as a single in October 2014, it was featured in a commercial for the wedding magazine Zexy and earned the Best Vocal Performance at the 56th Japan Record Awards that same year.
It was subsequently included on the album Love Ballade, captivating listeners across a wide audience.
Whether for a moody evening spent savoring a drink while feeling the bond with someone special, or as wedding background music, it will surely stay close to your heart.