A collection of romance-themed songs. Let’s listen to some Japanese love songs.

Summer Love AdvisorySHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Summer Love Advisory”

SHISHAMO is a rock band known for their light, upbeat sound.

The song they wrote for JTB’s summer campaign tie-in is “Summer Love Advisory.” The lyrics depict the beginning of a romance set in summer.

With plenty of humor, it portrays a woman who can’t stop thinking about the person she’s fallen for.

It’s a work that strikes a captivating balance between playful and bittersweet.

Another highlight is the abundance of summer-themed words, which enhances the seasonal feel.

As I amSHISHAMO

Watashi No Mamade

SHISHAMO is a three-piece rock band whose lyrics, vividly depicting scenes of romance, have garnered strong support especially among younger listeners.

Their 14th digital-only single, “Watashi no Mama de,” used as the commercial song for the matching app with, is a lively track featuring an intro guitar riff that sticks in your head.

The lyrics, which declare a commitment to valuing one’s true self rather than conforming to someone else’s preferences, are sure to give courage to people of all ages and genders.

With its cute vocals that perfectly match the song’s world, it’s a catchy pop tune.

Something-or-other Meteor ShowerSHO-SENSEI!!

SHO-SENSEI!! “Nantoka Meteor Shower” Official Music Video

SHO-SENSEI!! is known for a style that blends hip-hop and rock.

His standout summer track is “Nantoka Ryūseigun” (“Something Meteor Shower”).

The lyrics depict a heartbroken man watching a meteor shower while reminiscing about the past.

The contrast between the beautiful scenic descriptions and his wistful feelings is truly emo.

Another draw is the sound: the first half leans heavily into hip-hop, while the latter half leans more into rock.

It leaves you with the satisfying feeling of having listened to two songs in one.

When the magic wears offSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog “When the Magic Wears Off” Music Video

The title of this song, which depicts not only the happy times spent together but also the breakup that follows, is “When the Magic Wears Off.” The singer is Saucy Dog, who has captivated listeners with numerous love songs to date.

One of their charms is the skillful way they paint relatable stories and scenes, and that appeal is on full display in this track.

Many people will surely relate to a song that describes the blissful time of dating as being “under a spell.” If you listen while overlaying it with your own experiences, its bittersweetness will surely strike a chord.

Honne and tatemaeSexy Zone

Sexy Zone “Honne and Tatemae” (YouTube Ver.)

“Honne to Tatemae,” chosen as the theme song for the drama Usokon, was released by the idol group Sexy Zone in 2023, with lyrics and composition by Ringo Sheena.

It’s a song that portrays a mature love story, matching the drama’s narrative.

The jazz-based sound combined with their electronic-tinged vocals creates a one-of-a-kind world.

It’s a romantic dance number that captures emotions burdened by secrets that can’t be shared with anyone.

Be sure to listen along with the music video, where you can enjoy their many different expressions.

Unreachable love songTani Yuuki

Unreachable love song – Tani Yuuki (Official Lyric Video)

Despite being said to have started his career in 2020, his YouTube subscriber count is already on the verge of reaching 500,000.

With nearly 50 releases including MVs and digital-only singles, I feel that Tani Yuuki is one of the artists riding the biggest wave right now.

Here’s one of Tani’s pop yet somehow bittersweet tracks, “Unreachable love song.” Rather than a full-on tearjerker, a “tour of places filled with memories” might pair better with the refreshing words of heartbreak.

If you want to shed tears you don’t want others to see, this song is highly recommended.

VenusTele

Tele | Venus – Music Video

A sentimental song from Tele, the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, wrapped in a quintessential guitar-rock vibe.

The lyrics unfold like a story from start to finish, and as you listen, it almost feels like a drama playing out in your mind.

At the same time, there’s room throughout the lyrics for each listener to interpret them in their own way, so it can feel like a passionate love song or a bittersweet breakup song.

I encourage you to read the lyrics as you listen and see how the song resonates with you.