Japanese singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara has recently become viral in Indonesia. His 1992 song Mou Koi Nante Shina has resurfaced online and went viral towards the end of 2025 due to Makihara’s resemblance to Indonesia’s seventh former president, Joko Widodo. This viral moment is even noticed by the Japanese television station TV Asahi, which featured the topic on their TV program Tamori Station.
This unexpected comparison has introduced Makihara to a new generation of audiences. The song itself tells the story of someone resolving not to fall in love again after heartbreak. Upon its release, it performed strongly on the Oricon charts and remains a popular karaoke staple in Japan.
However, Mou Koi Nante Shinai is not only Makihara’s only noteworthy work. After all, he is regarded as one of the defining icons of 1990s J-Pop. With total record sales exceeding 21 million copies, he has firmly established himself as one of Japan’s most influential singer-songwriters. Below are ten recommended songs by Noriyuki Makihara, selected by KAORI Nusantara contributor Dody Kusumanto.
1. NG (1990)
Makihara’s debut single, NG, was released in 1990 and featured on his first album, Kimi ga Warau Toki Kimi no Mune ga Itamanai You ni. The track carries a melancholic and reflective tone, showcasing his early talent for exploring inner emotions through gentle melodies and introspective lyrics. Although it was not a major commercial hit, it laid the foundation for the distinctive musical style that would define his career.
2. Donna Toki mo (1991)
Released in 1991, Donna Toki mo remains one of Makihara’s most beloved songs. Centred on themes of friendship, love, and unconditional support, the track earned him widespread industry recognition. It received multiple accolades from the Recording Industry Association of Japan, solidifying his position as a leading figure in Japanese pop music.
3. Fuyu ga Hajimaru Yo (1991)
A quintessential winter song, Fuyu ga Hajimaru Yo goes beyond seasonal imagery to portray warmth and emotional closeness amid life’s challenges. Included in the album Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono, the single achieved Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan. Frequently associated with winter advertising campaigns, the song remains a seasonal favourite, with its music video garnering more than 19 million views on YouTube.
4. SPY (1994)
With a more upbeat tempo and subtle Chinese musical influences, SPY reveals a cooler, more enigmatic side of Makihara. The lyrics explore the intrigue of a mysterious relationship. Released in 1994 and included on the album Pharmacy, the song also received Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
5. No.1 (1993)
Confident and uplifting in tone, No.1 encourages listeners to find their own inner strength—not for the sake of competition, but for personal fulfilment. Featured on the album Self Portrait, the 1993 single achieved Platinum status from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
6. Kitakaze – Kimi ni Todokimasu You ni (1992)
This romantic ballad expresses the hope that heartfelt feelings will reach a loved one. Rich with winter imagery and gentle emotion, the track was released in 1992 and later included in Smiling: The Best of Noriyuki Makihara. It earned Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan and is often regarded as one of his classic winter songs.
7. Boku ga Ichiban Hoshikatta Mono (2004)
Released in 2004 as part of the album Explorer, this song reflects on the true meaning of happiness, suggesting that love, relationships, and inner peace matter more than material success. Its universal lyrics and heartfelt vocal delivery resonate across generations. The track also served as the theme song for the Japanese television drama Last Present: Musume to Ikiru Saigo no Natsu and received multiple certifications from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
8. Kanojo no Koibito (1993)
Exploring romantic dynamics from a personal perspective, Kanojo no Koibito stands out for its relatable lyrics and engaging melody. Released in 1993 and included in Self Portrait, it achieved Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
9. Zuru Yasumi (1993)
With a light-hearted and cheerful tempo, Zuru Yasumi tells the story of taking a day off work to savour life’s simple pleasures. Also featured on Self Portrait, the song received Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
10. Yuki ni Negai wo (1993)
Blending a winter atmosphere with the longing to be close to a loved one, Yuki ni Negai wo offers a simple yet touching listening experience. Another seasonal favourite from Self Portrait, the track earned Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
Honourable Mention: Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana (2003)
Originally performed by SMAP and released in 2003, Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana highlights Makihara’s talents not only as a solo artist but also as a composer. Written by Makihara, the song conveys a universal message of individuality, diversity, and self-worth. It became one of Japan’s best-selling singles and remains among the most iconic works associated with his name.
Do you have any other Noriyuki Makihara song recommendations? Tell us in the comments below!
The Indonesian Anime Times | Original article by Dody Kusumanto
