A song that makes learning the times tables fun
Once you’ve cleared addition and subtraction, the next thing that comes along is multiplication!
The first step you need to learn is the multiplication table, known as “kuku.”
Once you’ve memorized it, many kinds of calculations become easier, but getting it down can be pretty tough.
So in this article, we’re introducing songs that make it easier to remember the kuku!
We’ve gathered a variety of tunes, from songs with fun rhythms to ones you can learn alongside popular characters.
Just rote memorization can get boring, but if you sing along to a rhythm, you can learn the kuku enjoyably!
Sing a lot and master the multiplication table!
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A fun song to learn the multiplication table (11–20)
Racing into the Night (Parody Version)
The music duo YOASOBI is hugely popular even among elementary school students.
When you think of their signature songs, “Yoru ni Kakeru” comes to mind, right? In fact, there’s a version of “Yoru ni Kakeru” that’s been rearranged as a song to help memorize the multiplication table.
The original has a driving feel and a catchy melody, making it perfect for memorization.
Many people might think it wouldn’t fit the times tables, but it actually works surprisingly well.
It even has a few elements that will make you chuckle, so be sure to give it a listen.
Multiplication Table SongQ’ulle
The girls’ group Q’ulle became popular after one of their videos posted on Niconico Douga went viral.
To coincide with a fan meeting they held in 2015, they released “Kuku no Uta” (“The Times Tables Song”).
In the music video, the members, dressed in animal-like costumes, show off a dance performance.
The choreography isn’t overly childish, so it’s recommended for kids who enjoy dancing.
Plus, just like Q’ulle, dancing with five people makes it even more fun!
Cool times table dance!!Matsuura Yuta
Ryuuzou Fukuda, a creator of play-based dance who holds seminars nationwide, teamed up with Yuta Matsuura—known for his many children’s songs—to produce “Cool Multiplication Dance.” It’s a mnemonic song centered on dance, letting kids learn the times tables through gestures and movements.
Because the piece is designed to be danced by multiple people, it’s perfect for use in school classes.
The song is divided into sections covering 1–3, 3–6, and 6–9, with the choreography getting more challenging as you go up, so children can learn the multiplication tables as if they’re playing a game.
Multiplication Table Songdeguchi takashi
Are you familiar with the Columbia Kids TV channel, where Takashi Deguchi, who has been active in music, publishes videos for children? It’s a very popular YouTube channel among kids, and they also have a video for memorizing the multiplication table.
The song used is “99 no Uta” composed by Satoko Yamano, but it features original animation.
In it, animals shaped like numbers appear.
With its cute atmosphere, it should keep your child engaged.
Exciting Multiplication: Times Table Drill
A workbook for memorizing the multiplication tables, “Waku-Waku Multiplication Tables Drill—Even Mom Will Want to Sing Along!” This is “The 9-Times Table Song,” included on the audio CD that comes with the workbook.
The ninth table is the last of the times tables—once you’ve memorized this, you’ve cleared them all! But the numbers are big, and it’s a bit hard to say and remember, right? That’s exactly when you should lean on the power of music! In this song, the 9-times table is sung three items at a time every four measures.
Instead of trying to memorize everything at once, learn it little by little along with the song.
ZAN×ZAN×ZANSakushi: KEN THE 390/Sakkyoku: KEN THE 390 / CHIVA (BUZZER BEATS)
“ZAN×ZAN×ZAN” is a multiplication table memorization song produced by Benesse.
The music has a hip-hop vibe, and the times tables are sung with a rap-like flow.
It focuses specifically on the 6, 7, and 8 times tables, which children often find challenging.
The song even introduces tips on what to do if you forget a multiplication fact.
It’s an ideal track for children who have already learned the basics of the times tables.
Plus, the music video features the mascot character Korasho, giving it a friendly and approachable feel.
In conclusion
We introduced a song that makes it fun to learn the multiplication table—how did you like it? Once you develop a mental block, memorizing the times tables can be tough.
Even with mnemonics, it’s hard to learn if it isn’t enjoyable.
If there’s a child who currently feels discouraged about the times tables, please use this article as a reference and try using songs to help them learn the multiplication table in a fun way!