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!
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Masterpieces in Triple Time: That Hit Song Too!? A Curated Selection of Popular Japanese and Western Tracks (1–10)
stick figureRADWIMPS
A song marked by a delicate, profound lyrical world that feels like peering into the human heart.
While pursuing what it means to be human, it carefully portrays emotions that seem on the verge of losing oneself.
Featured on the album “Ningen Kaika,” the track achieves a beautiful harmony between RADWIMPS’ distinctive philosophical perspective and a simple yet resonant melody.
It was also used as the theme song for NTV’s 2017 spring drama “Frankenstein’s Love,” vividly coloring the show’s world.
It’s a song that gently stays by your side when you want to reexamine your own worth and the meaning of life, or when you long to be understood by someone.
I RememberSuperfly
Superfly is a musical duo that has gained popularity with songs that, while influenced by classic Western music, are crafted squarely as J-pop.
Did you know that “I Remember,” a track from their first album, Superfly, was originally created in 4/4 time? Its emotional ensemble and gospel-tinged choral work—possible precisely because it’s in triple meter—draw you into the song’s world just by listening.
It’s a grand pop tune, with a powerful voice that soars endlessly and shakes the heart.
Bed Of RosesBon Jovi
Bon Jovi’s “Bed of Roses” is one of their most popular ballads.
Like this song, 3/4 time is also used in poppy, catchy rock.
In fact, the guitar solo in the intro is in 3/4, and the combination of its distinctive rhythm with the sweet guitar tone creates a dreamy atmosphere.
By the way, this section can also be interpreted as being in 6/8.
If you’re interested, try looking into the differences between 3/4 and 6/8 time!
Masterpieces in 3/4 Time: That Hit Song, Too!? A Curated Selection of Popular Japanese and Western Tracks (11–20)
rainbowkururi
Quruli is a two-piece rock band formed in the Ritsumeikan University music circle “Rock Commune.” Their second single, Niji (Rainbow), was chosen as the ending theme for the music program JAPAN COUNTDOWN.
The ensemble, featuring a striking guitar arpeggio and an easygoing triple meter, evokes a certain nostalgia.
It’s a rock tune with superb arranging that paints vivid scenes, with a floating, lingering melody that sticks in your ears.
TokyoKuwata Keisuke
A heart-stirring ballad that delicately portrays loneliness and a sense of loss against the backdrop of a rain-soaked city nightscape.
With Keisuke Kuwata’s signature deep vocals and melodies, it gently envelops the bittersweet emotions of people living in the city.
Exuding a suspense-drama atmosphere, the song topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks immediately after its June 2002 release.
Featured on the album “ROCK AND ROLL HERO,” it drew widespread attention and received high acclaim, including Song of the Year at the 17th Japan Gold Disc Awards.
It’s a gem of a masterpiece that reflects the mature heart—one you’ll want to listen to quietly on a solitary rainy night.
Fly to Your HeartSelena Gomez
The ending theme of the Disney film Tinker Bell, where the beauty of nature and a magical world unfold.
Selena Gomez’s clear, pure voice gently speaks to the importance of believing in yourself and the courage to chase your dreams.
Released in 2008, this song is a heartwarming pop track adorned with Disney magic, shining like a beam of clear light.
It’s an anthem that softly encourages those who believe in the possibilities within their hearts and are ready to take a new step forward.
Poem of TruthDo As Infinity
A Do As Infinity single notable for its graceful 6/8 meter and an evocative Eastern ambiance.
Within a distinctive soundscape woven with live jinghu, it carefully portrays the anxieties and conflicts born of ignorance, and the act of reexamining one’s true self.
Released in October 2002, it was later chosen as the fifth ending theme for the anime Inuyasha, reaching No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
It was subsequently included on the album TRUE SONG and has been highly regarded as a classic.
This is a track to listen to when you find yourself at a crossroads in life or when you want to confront your convictions and the cry of your soul.
It’s a warm song that conveys timeless, unchanging values and a sense of hope for the future.