Classic and popular songs sung by actors
Many of today’s actors and TV personalities are multitalented, and we can expect them to shine in many different fields.
From insert songs used in films and dramas to independently released tracks, there are actually quite a lot of songs that actors have been involved with.
In this article, we introduce a number of classic songs released by actors.
“Oh, I’ve heard this in that drama!”
“Isn’t this the song from that variety show?”
I hope you’ll enjoy reminiscing about the stories behind these tracks.
- Famous and popular songs performed by actresses
- Great covers of classic and popular songs sung by male artists
- Masterpieces that sing about various lives. Recommended popular songs.
- Masterpieces by male artists known for their captivating high notes. Recommended popular songs.
- Theme and insert songs from the long-running Monday 9 p.m. dramas: classic hits from popular series and recommended fan favorites
- A collection of iconic, cool Showa-era kayōkyoku classics sung by male vocalists
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- That popular voice actor is doing that song!? A roundup of cover songs by voice actors
- Theme and insert songs from dramas and films that color the story
- [Relaxed & Gentle] A calm track with an easy, unhurried tempo
- [Cute] A Collection of Popular and Famous Anime-Style Songs [J-Pop]
- [2026] Songs sung by comedians: from the latest tracks to nostalgic classics
- 【2026】Recommended Enka by Male Singers with Captivating High Notes
Famous and popular songs (1–10) sung by actors
sunflowerYūsuke
Yusuke Kamiji, who rose to fame after appearing on the show “Quiz! Hexagon II,” has also released numerous CDs under the name “Yusuke.” This single, released in 2009, became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon chart for two consecutive weeks.
It also drew attention for being used as the theme song by former professional baseball player Masaaki Koike.
Voice of the SeaKiritani Kenta
Kenta Kiritani appeared in an au commercial as Urashima Taro, and the single “Umi no Koe” that was born from that campaign became a huge hit, leading to his appearance on the Kōhaku music show that year.
In fact, Kiritani had also released a single back in 2013.
That one was a song born from a TV drama project.
If you’re curious, be sure to check it out.
ForeverSorimachi Takashi
In addition to his success as an actor, Takashi Sorimachi also blossomed as a singer.
His debut single, released in July 1997, was selected as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Beach Boys.” Created in collaboration with Richie Sambora, the song is striking for its lyrics themed around love and eternity and its fast-paced, poppy melody.
While portraying the joys of the past and anxieties about the future, it conveys a heartfelt message about cherishing each day.
It resonated with many people, reaching as high as No.
3 on the Oricon charts.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to reminisce about your youth or feel the bond with someone special.
Classic and Popular Songs Sung by Actors (11–20)
PuzzleFujiki Naohito
A poignant yet gentle ballad by Naohito Fujiki, distinguished by its memorable melody.
It was featured as an insert song in the drama “Platonic Sex: A Pure Love Story at 20,” where Fujiki himself can be seen performing it with acoustic guitar in the show.
The lyrics compare lost time and relationships to “puzzle pieces,” tenderly reflecting on memories of days gone by and on friendship.
Released in November 2001, the song peaked at No.
13 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It also served as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s Friday Entertainment, earning broad support.
It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone important or quietly look back on the past.
Permanent VacationDEAN FUJIOKA
This is a song that showcases the musicality of the multi-talented Dean Fujioka.
Written as the theme for the film “Marriage,” it’s pop music infused with electronic elements, featuring a rhythmic and sophisticated sound that’s instantly appealing.
The lyrics, weaving together English, Japanese, and Chinese, center on a journey of self-discovery and introspection.
The music video, in which Dean portrays a protagonist wandering the city on a sleepless night, is also a highlight.
If you’re feeling lost in life, why not listen to this track and take a moment to face yourself?
Matsuken Samba IIMatsudaira Ken
When it comes to Ken Matsudaira—famous for his role as Yoshimune in ‘Abarenbo Shogun’—his signature song is undoubtedly ‘Matsuken Samba II.’ It was originally a piece for a song-and-dance show, but when the CD was released in 2004, it became a huge hit! Today, it’s popular at children’s recitals and sports days, and it’s beloved for its distinctive hip-shaking dance.
The song also boosted the profile of choreographer Shigeki Majima.
ONE MORE TRY!!Saitō Takumi
The song performed by Takumi Saitoh, who is active as an actor and film director, was used as a drama’s ending theme and left a lasting impression on many viewers.
Its lyrics—celebrating the power of a smile, honesty with oneself, and the importance of taking on challenges—give people courage and hope.
Released in June 2012, the track was reborn as a cover of Atsushi Okuno’s song, perfectly matching the drama’s worldview.
The limited first edition includes a promotional video and behind-the-scenes footage, offering a chance to discover a new side of Takumi Saitoh.
It’s a song especially recommended for those feeling worn out by daily life or looking to take a new step forward.