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Masterpieces in 3/4 Time: That Hit Song Too!? A Curated Selection of Popular Japanese and Western Tracks

When you think of hit songs in triple meter, what kind of tracks come to mind?

Triple meter is known as the waltz rhythm and is popular in classical music; it’s also commonly used in other genres, especially in Western music.

Interestingly, it’s often said that Japanese listeners are not as comfortable with triple meter, so it doesn’t appear much in J-pop hits.

In this article, we’ve selected songs in triple meter from Japanese and Western pop and rock.

From timeless favorites to lesser-known hidden gems, we’ve got a wide-ranging playlist for you!

Masterpieces in Triple Meter: That Hit Song Too!? A Curated Selection of Popular Japanese and Western Tracks (71–80)

SarabandeJon Lord

John Lord, famously known as the organist of Deep Purple, also worked as a solo artist.

This piece is a solo work released in 1976 and is the title track of the album.

A sarabande is a stately dance in triple meter, and this piece likewise features a majestic sound enhanced by an orchestra.

Surprisingly, the guitarist who took part in the recording was Andy Summers, who would later join The Police.

It’s not the delay-heavy style you hear with The Police, though.

emptyyuzu

Since their formation in 1996, Yuzu—the ultimate duo that has continued to produce beloved classics among many Japanese people—released this magnificent waltz (in 3/4 time) in 1998! When it comes to Yuzu’s songs in triple meter, younger music fans might think of “Ame Nochi Hareruya,” released in 2013.

But for those who spent their youth in the ’90s, it has to be “Karappo.” Written and composed by Koji Iwasawa, it’s a poignant 3/4-time ballad that begins with Iwasawa’s own harmonica.

The contrast is truly beautiful between the slightly restrained singing by Yujin Kitagawa in the A section and Iwasawa’s emotional, high-toned vocals from the B section onward.

The lyrics, based on Iwasawa’s real-life experiences, are achingly sorrowful—undeniably a masterpiece.

Sung over the gentle sway of a triple meter, the melody somehow feels as though it speaks directly to the heart.

In conclusion

Looking over these songs in 3/4 time, it does seem that in Japanese music there are relatively few “everyone knows this” classics.

That said, many 3/4 pieces have a distinctive atmosphere and showcase the artist’s flair, leaving a strong impression.

I hope this article helps you discover the appeal of triple meter!