Covering back number’s smash-hit songs on piano! Carefully selected recommended sheet music
Back Number began their band activities in 2004 and, since their major-label debut in 2011, have released numerous hit songs.
Their tracks are so memorable that anyone who listens will feel, “I think I’ve heard this somewhere,” and they consistently enjoy strong support from a wide range of generations.
This time, we’re highlighting some of Back Number’s most popular songs!
We’ll give you a thorough introduction, along with recommended sheet music for those who want to try playing them on piano and the corresponding performance videos.
Covering back number’s mega-hit songs on piano! Carefully selected recommended sheet music (1–10)
bouquetback number
Bouquet is striking for its lyrics that feel like snapshots of everyday life, carrying a casual conversation infused with a love for her deeper than anyone else’s.
It’s a gem of a love song that conveys powerful, profound affection without a single pretentious word.
Beyond the lyrics, pay attention to the melody too—simple yet resolute, it radiates a firm will and a commitment to “keep loving this person.” Performed with a gentle piano tone, it resonates even more deeply in the heart.
Why not play it on the piano and immerse yourself in the love-filled world back number has created?
Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number
Back Number’s classic song “Takane no Hanako-san,” which portrays a man’s backward-looking unrequited love, has resonated with countless listeners regardless of gender.
If you’ve ever had a crush, you’ve probably fallen into the same spiral—imagining things like, “Did she just smile at me?” or “Her future boyfriend is probably super handsome,” and ending up feeling down.
Beyond the lyrics, the uniquely disco-flavored drum beat and the exhilarating, fast-paced melody are incredibly appealing! The piano version, which has a slightly more mellow feel than the band arrangement, is wonderful too—so be sure to give it a try.
I love youback number
“I Love You” was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Maiagare! starring Haruka Fukuhara, and it was also performed at the 73rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2022.
The song captivates with its striking lyrics that vividly evoke scenes and its powerful melody.
Although it spans a wide vocal range and features somewhat complex rhythms, playing it with the gentle tone of a piano will bring out the song’s warmth and deep affection even more.
It’s also recommended to ignore the original tempo and perform it more like a relaxed ballad.
Happy Endingback number
“Happy End,” chosen as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday” starring Sota Fukushi, is a memorable track with heartbreakingly poignant lyrics and a beautiful melody.
The original song is primarily built around strings and piano, which intertwine intricately to further highlight the depth of the lyrics—so a piano arrangement feels completely natural.
In fact, the added delicacy makes the single-minded love and the unspoken turmoil embedded in the song feel even more vivid.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number
HAPPY BIRTHDAY grips the heart with lyrics intertwining birthdays and budding love, and a melody that evokes the bittersweetness, anticipation, and a tangle of mixed emotions that come with unrequited feelings.
It beautifully captures both the happiness of thinking about the one you like and the despair of the reality that they won’t turn your way.
Rendered with delicate piano tones, its melancholy will only deepen.
Try performing it with a clear contrast between the calm, speech-like passages that move along steadily and the chorus where emotions burst open.
Christmas songback number
Released in 2015, “Christmas Song” has now become a new staple of the Japanese holiday season.
Its pleasantly beautiful melody evokes scenes of Christmas trees adorned with decorations and sparkling lights, enveloping listeners in a warm atmosphere.
The lyrics, which portray a love so strong that you can’t help thinking about that special someone no matter where you are or what you’re doing, are sure to make your heart flutter.
With its gentle, soft vibe, the song pairs perfectly with the delicate tones of the piano.
Velvet Poemback number
This is the song chosen as the theme for the film Akira and Akira, starring Ryoma Takeuchi and Ryusei Yokohama.
Its lyrics, which encourage people who feel life is difficult by telling them, “You are one of a kind—feel free to live your own path in your own way,” are deeply moving.
The lyrics are wonderful, of course, and the melody that enhances their message is excellent too! Play the uplifting sections with a positive, powerful energy, and the gentle parts with delicate piano tones—adding contrast as if tracing the flow of emotions.