![[J-Pop] A collection of popular songs with “love” in the title](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dVvFTKa62Ts/sddefault.jpg)
[J-Pop] A collection of popular songs with “love” in the title
How many people can quickly answer when asked, “What is love?” I’m sure everyone has their own idea of what “love” means.
And it’s the same in music.
Throughout the long history of Japanese music, there are countless songs that use the word “love.” So this time, I’ll be introducing popular songs that have the character for “love” (愛) in their titles.
I’ve tried to pick works from a wide range of eras, so hopefully there’s something that resonates with everyone.
Be sure to read to the end!
[J-Pop] Compilation of popular songs with “Love” in the title (1–10)
EXILE PRIDE ~To Love a World Like This~NEW!EXILE
Released in April 2013 as their 41st single and positioned as the theme song for their dome tour, this track was widely featured, including as the CM song for Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical and in tie-ups with Fujitsu and Toyota, paired with visuals symbolizing “forward progress.” With lyrics by ATSUSHI declaring the straightforward message of “to love this world,” it powerfully sings of the resolve and solidarity to overcome adversity.
Its classic dance-pop arrangement—driven by robust choral work, strings, and brass—builds uplifting momentum, while singalong-friendly melodies maximize a sense of unity at live shows.
It sold 560,000 copies in its first week and surpassed one million in total sales.
At the 55th Japan Record Awards, it earned the group their fourth Grand Prize, cementing the song as a landmark work that solidified their national acclaim.
As I love you selfishly, I won’t hurt anyone but you.B’z
When it comes to rock numbers that portray the blazing emotions of lovers, “Ai no mama ni wagamama ni boku wa kimi dake wo kizutsukenai” stands out.
The beloved rock band B’z released it in 1993.
The rock sound, opening with a passionate guitar performance, is undeniably cool.
It’s infused with a powerful desire to live alongside the one you love, no matter the hardships.
It can also serve as an encouraging message to a partner struggling with anxiety or loneliness.
Why not take in this burning devotion directed at the one person who matters most?
If you call it loveUru
The song infused with the feeling of “wanting to stay by the side of someone precious forever” is If You Call That Love.
It was released in 2022 by Uru, a singer-songwriter known for providing theme songs for numerous dramas and anime.
It portrays the emotions felt upon meeting a beloved person after overcoming a past that didn’t go well or as hoped.
Her clear, translucent vocals and the beautiful melody will resonate in your heart.
It is a warm love song that depicts an encounter powerful enough to change one’s life.
Love Revolution 21Morning Musume
There are many ways to express “love,” from words to actions.
Among songs that convey love through feeling, “Love Revolution 21” stands out.
Released in 2000 by the idol group Morning Musume, it’s known as one of their signature tracks.
Its funky beat paired with a disco-inspired sound is irresistibly catchy.
The song captures those ineffable emotions—like the joy of the moment you fall in love.
Give this dance tune a listen; it expresses the rhythm and momentum so vital to romance through its sound.
Is there still anything that love can do?RADWIMPS
“Is There Still Anything That Love Can Do?” drew attention after being featured in the film Weathering With You.
The rock band RADWIMPS handled the production, and the song heightened the emotional impact as part of the film’s soundtrack.
It straightforwardly voices feelings toward a society that can feel hard to live in, as well as the sentiments poured into the days spent with someone precious.
The piece develops from a simple arrangement of piano and vocals into a grand, expansive sound.
It’s the kind of song you want to listen to when you’re unsure about what love is, or what life is.
Try listening while thinking of the important person who has given you courage and strength.
Love RadiantHibari Misora
Hibari Misora, who has made her mark in the history of Japanese popular music as the “Queen of Kayō,” is an icon.
One of her signature songs, Ai Sansan, was released in 1986 and remains a beloved classic across generations.
The word sansan in the title evokes the glittering radiance of the sun or light, and the song beautifully conveys emotions in moments overflowing with love.
In a life filled with various hardships like rain and wind, perhaps happiness lies in those moments that let us feel joy.
Why not experience the love expressed within the grand theme of life?
To my belovedGReeeeN
Aishikimi-e portrays the real feelings that arise in everyday life spent with someone you love.
The song was released in 2013 by GReeeeN, a music group known for delivering tracks themed around life and love.
It depicts love and gratitude that are hard to put into words precisely because the person is by your side, and its straightforward message resonates deeply.
Their energetic vocals perfectly match the heartwarming melody line, creating a heartfelt love song that hints at the days of a future shared with someone you cherish.
Give it a listen while thinking of the partner who stays by your side through both joyful and difficult times.