[Minna no Uta] Tear-jerking masterpiece. A moving song you want to hear again.
NHK’s Minna no Uta, which began broadcasting in 1961, features countless timeless songs.
I’m sure many of you have a tune you’ll never forget.
In this article, we’ve picked out some of the most moving songs from among those classics.
We’ve gathered many tracks—songs that warm the heart, songs you’ll relate to through your own experiences, farewell songs, and more.
These beloved classics span the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras, transcending generations.
We hope you’ll find one that resonates with you.
Listening again as an adult, you may discover worlds you never noticed as a child.
Immerse yourself in these masterpieces and let the tears flow.
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Minna no Uta: Tear-Jerking Masterpieces. Moving Songs You Want to Hear Again (11–20)
footprint(s)Little Glee Monster
A heartwarming, message-filled song has arrived.
Little Glee Monster’s music cherishes past experiences while giving you the courage to move toward the future.
This piece was released in September 2020 and was chosen as the set piece for the NHK Nationwide School Music Competition.
It was also featured on Minna no Uta, touching the hearts of many.
You can find it on the albums GRADATI∞N and Journey, so be sure to give it a listen.
It’s recommended for those standing at a crossroads in life or who want to reflect on their journey.
It’s sure to become a song that stays close to your heart.
Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Angela Aki
It’s also a classic graduation song! This signature track by singer-songwriter Angela Aki was released in 2008 as her eighth single.
That same year, it was featured on the program “Minna no Uta” and selected as the required piece for the junior high division of the NHK National School Music Competition.
The lyrics, which depict replying to a letter from your 15-year-old self, have the power to move anyone’s heart.
It’s an inspiring anthem that gives you the courage and hope to say, “I’ll do my best again tomorrow.”
Grandfather's ClockKen Hirai
Originally an American song, it was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962 and became established in Japan as a children’s song.
The Japanese lyrics were written by Yasugo Hotomi.
Ken Hirai’s 2002 cover is also well-known and was also aired on “Minna no Uta.” This song, which sings about a clock that stayed by someone’s side from birth until death, is likely a memorable piece across generations.
Everyone surely has something precious that has accompanied them through life.
Parting with that something is, after all, heartbreaking, isn’t it?
Become a flowerRimi Natsukawa
It’s a ballad that gently stays by your side in tough and sorrowful times.
It’s sung by Rimi Natsukawa, a singer from Okinawa known for hits like “Nada Sousou.” It was released in 2000 as her second single.
The nostalgic, tender melody pairs perfectly with Natsukawa’s soft vocals, and that alone brings tears to your eyes.
For those living away from their hometown, it will likely resonate even more deeply.
YELLIkimonogakari
An encouraging song that stays close to graduations and new beginnings will seep into everyone’s hearts.
The melodies and lyrics woven by Ikimonogakari beautifully capture both hope for the future and the bittersweetness of parting.
Released in September 2009, this piece was selected as the required song for the junior high school division of NHK’s National School Music Competition and has been loved by many.
Listen to it at graduations, farewell gatherings, and other moments when you’re taking a new step forward—it’s sure to give you courage.
Why not listen to this song at the milestones in your life?
KuroMimori Yusa
If you have a cat, this will probably make you cry even more.
It’s “Kuro” by Mimori Yusa, a singer-songwriter from Miyagi Prefecture.
It was released as a single in 2005 and aired on “Minna no Uta” from that year into 2006.
The song tells of naming a black stray cat Kuro that was found under a big tree and gradually forming a bond with it.
As time passes, Kuro suddenly disappears one day.
In the ending, when the sadness of losing someone precious and the preciousness of the time spent together surge in at the same time, it brings a lump to your throat.
[Minna no Uta] Tear-jerking masterpieces. Moving songs you want to hear again (21–30)
Magical Cooking ~From You to You~BUMP OF CHICKEN
This is BUMP OF CHICKEN’s 17th single, broadcast from April to May 2010.
The song was created with the concept of vocalist Motoo Fujiwara speaking to his younger self.
The lyric booklet features a photo of a stuffed animal he actually received from his grandfather when he was a child, and it’s said that all the episodes in the lyrics are based on real experiences.
“The memories of worn-out toys and the many moments with family—each and every one will become a treasure.” Now that we’re adults, isn’t this something anyone can relate to?