If being alive is painfulNaotaro Moriyama1rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – If Being Alive Is Painful

This is a heartwarming song by Naotaro Moriyama that stands by people facing life’s hardships and struggles.

Released in August 2008, it frankly portrays the difficulties of living while suggesting a light of hope.

Although parts of the lyrics sparked debate, it also drew attention when Moriyama himself asked listeners to “please listen to it to the end.” With lyrics that carry a bright outlook for the future, it’s perfect for celebrations of longevity.

It’s an ideal song for moments when you want to look back on life’s joys and sorrows and find hope for the road ahead.

The End of SummerNaotaro Moriyama2rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – Natsuno Owari

When it comes to the Summer Koshien, many people probably think of this song alongside the passionate battles of the high school players.

Sung by Naotaro Moriyama, it’s a classic ballad that vividly captures the wistful feeling of summer slipping away.

Released as a single in August 2003, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Ikutsumo no Kawa o Koete Umareta Kotobatachi.” At first listen, it sounds like a love song about someone far away, but the fact that it also carries a prayer for peace adds depth to the piece.

Chosen as the ending theme for the 85th “Nettou Koshien,” it moved many to tears.

It’s a song you’ll want to play at summer’s end, quietly basking in your memories.

Sakura (2019)Naotaro Moriyama3rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – “Sakura (2019)” Music Video

Since the start of the Reiwa era, many new graduation songs that leave a lasting impression have emerged, but one that stands out in particular is Naotaro Moriyama’s “Sakura (2019).” Surpassing its 2002 hit, this newly arranged version was also chosen as the theme song for a drama starring Mitsuki Takahata.

With a melody as radiant as cherry blossoms in bloom and tinged with the pathos of petals falling, it symbolizes both parting and the beginning of a new life.

Its moving vocals leave a deep impression on listeners.

It’s a perfect choice for the graduation season of the Reiwa era, a song that will color many memories.

Sakura (Solo)Naotaro Moriyama4rank/position

Sakura (Solo) [With Sheet Music] Naotaro Moriyama / Piano / Tried Playing / Piano / CANACANA

The music of Naotaro Moriyama, one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters, uses cherry blossoms—a symbol of spring—as its theme.

This work is a poignant ballad centered on graduation and parting, expressing life’s farewells and new beginnings through the transience of sakura.

Released in March 2003 with an initial pressing of about 1,200 copies, it became an exceptional hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon chart in its ninth week.

Its gentle, piano-driven melody and Moriyama’s distinctive vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

It was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s Sekai Ururun Taizaiki and is beloved by many.

The chorus’s chord progression is a classic Pachelbel-style canon progression, a device often used effectively in hit songs.

Even played on piano alone, it’s enough to bring a tear to your eye!

cherry blossomNaotaro Moriyama5rank/position

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

This is one of Naotaro Moriyama’s signature songs, which likens cherry blossoms—blooming in splendor with the arrival of spring and eventually falling—to farewells and new beginnings in life.

Released as a single in 2003, it was used as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaki.” The lyrics depict scenes of friends promising to meet again along a road lined with cherry trees, and saying their goodbyes while accepting the fleeting fate of petals falling, yet holding steadfast to unchanging feelings.

It is a timeless piece that we hope those facing life’s milestones—such as graduation or job transfers—will listen to.

The warm arrangement of piano and strings, together with Moriyama’s clear vocals, resonates deeply with listeners.

poopNaotaro Moriyama6rank/position

Unco

Naotaro Moriyama is also known for having many comic songs.

Among them, the masterpiece that has put smiles on countless listeners’ faces is this classic, “Unko.” The vocal line in this piece isn’t exactly easy.

Of course, it depends on what key you set it in, but in many cases falsetto also comes into play.

That said, this work boasts an overwhelmingly short length compared to his other songs.

Its difficulty is around average, but if you give your all to the vocal part—which lasts only about 30 seconds—scoring a perfect 100 isn’t just a dream!

rainbowNaotaro Moriyama7rank/position

Lyrics by Naotaro Moriyama and Kazu Okachimachi, composed by Takafumi Nobunaga / Niji (Rainbow) lyrics N. Moriyama, K. Okachimachi, composition T. Nobunaga / Niji

This heartwarming song by Naotaro Moriyama sings of opposing emotions—encounters and farewells, joy and sorrow—through a melody that is gentle yet powerful.

Even when people share the same moment, each person feels something different; this duality of life is expressed with delicate words.

Released in 2006 as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition (Junior High School Division), its universal message has kept it beloved and widely sung in many schools to this day.

It’s a song that resonates during moments of sharing precious time with friends, such as at graduation ceremonies and school festivals—one you’ll definitely want to perform as a choir.