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[Night Songs] Classic masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP you’ll want to listen to at nighttime.

The unique atmosphere of nighttime—something you don’t get in the morning or afternoon—somehow evokes a touch of wistfulness and loneliness, doesn’t it?

In this article, we’ll introduce classic and popular songs themed around “night,” perfect for those hours.

We’ve gathered tracks ideal for quiet nights, such as “songs you want to listen to alone at night” and “songs that evoke beautiful nighttime scenery.”

If you’re looking for music that matches night views for an evening walk, drive, or run, be sure to check these out.

From ballads that suit a relaxed night to dance tunes that make you want to move, we’ve got you covered—there’s sure to be a track you’ll want to play.

[Song of the Night] Masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP to listen to at nighttime (81–90)

Midnight Door ~ Stay with MeMiki Matsubara

"Midnight Door ~ Stay With Me" / Miki Matsubara Official Lyric Video
Midnight Door ~ Stay With Me Miki Matsubara

The bittersweetness of the night that resonates with her lustrous singing voice invites you into the world of urban mood music.

Miki Matsubara’s debut single is a gem that sets lingering feelings for a former lover to a disco-style rhythm.

Its appeal lies in the sophisticated atmosphere woven by an urban sound that evokes adult romance and polished English phrases.

Released in November 1979 and included on the album “POCKET PARK,” the track became a major hit, reaching No.

28 on the Oricon charts.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to immerse yourself in precious memories while picturing a city nightscape like a scene from a film.

It’s also cherished as an adult love song that can be sung with a smooth, mellow mood.

A Gentle BallAimer

Aimer “Gentle Ball (Yasashii Butoukai)” Lyrics/English Subtitles | NHK “Minna no Uta” | 25th Single “SCOPE”
Gentle Ball Aimer

Set to the strains of a dreamlike waltz, a mysterious tale unfolds on the stage of a nighttime ball.

Aimer’s husky, lustrous voice gracefully paints a fantastical scene bathed in moonlight.

The feelings of a girl who keeps dancing within the fleeting hours of the night, searching for faint memories and traces of the past, will resonate deeply with us as adults.

This piece is included on the single “SCOPE,” released in February 2025, and was newly written for NHK’s “Minna no Uta” broadcasts for February and March.

It’s a song you’ll want to savor at the close of the day, in a quiet room—one that will gently accompany and soothe a heart tired from work.

I want to see you.iri

This is a popular song by iri that captures the bittersweet emotions of late nights.

Featured on the EP “life ep,” released in November 2017, the track blends R&B and hip-hop within a smoky atmosphere to create a unique soundscape.

Written in the middle of the night, it portrays lingering attachment and longing for a lover, shaded by complex, hard-to-unravel feelings.

mabanua’s sophisticated arrangement pairs perfectly with iri’s soulful, reverb-laden vocals, resulting in a mature and sensual finish.

It’s a memorable piece you’ll want to play on a nighttime drive or during special moments with someone important.

Only on nights when I want to dieAina the End

Aina the End – Only on Nights When I Want to Die [Official Music Video]
Aina the End, only on nights when I want to die

This is a heartwarming song that delicately portrays how the smile of someone precious comes to mind in moments when your heart feels like it might break amid an unremarkably passing everyday life.

Aina the End wrote and composed the song, with production by Shingo Sekiguchi of Ovall.

Her quietly companionable husky voice blends exquisitely with the warm acoustic sound.

Written in February 2020 as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS drama “Shinitai Yoru ni Kagitte” (“Only on the Nights I Want to Die”), Aina the End—who was a fan of the original work—carefully captured the story’s worldview.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel lonely, hopeless, or on the verge of breaking.

The presence of someone dear, and the warmth of shared memories, will surely become a source of support for your heart.

Blues Until MorningKeimyo Reitaro

Kiyomirare Taro – “Blues Until Morning” Official Audio
Blues Until Morning by Kimyo Reitaro

This song paints a scene of a night shrouded in deep darkness.

Reitaro Strange’s distinctive vocals gently envelop feelings of loneliness and uncertainty.

Written and composed by Naohisa Hayase, it carries a bluesy atmosphere, marked by a calm yet resonant melody.

Digitally released in October 2024, the track also serves as the theme song for Teppei Isobe’s film “Yoru no Manimani.” Its lyrics, hinting at hope, soothe the heart as they accompany the coming-of-age love story.

When you want to face yourself in the quiet of the night, give this song a listen.

In conclusion

We’ve introduced some classic and popular songs with a night theme.

There were all kinds—songs you might want to listen to alone at night, and tracks perfect for a nighttime drive.

In addition to the songs you were looking for, try finding a new favorite and give it a listen.

Your usual walk home or the moments before bed will surely feel just a little more special.