Chanson masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.

Una bella historiaMichel Fugain

Una bella historia Michel Fugain

I’m sure many of you find this tune familiar.

Yes, this is the original song that inspired Circus’s hit “Mr.

Summertime.” It has been arranged with an even more passionate feel than the Japanese version.

It’s a popular song not only in Japan but around the world, and many artists have covered it.

Most of the covers, like the original, are arranged with a passionate flair.

Only in Japan does it take on a calmer, more adult image.

I think that’s because the Japanese lyrics revolve around an affair, which led to that kind of mood.

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Ryo

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Sans toi ma mieSalvatore Adamo

Salvatore Adamo – Sans toi ma mie 1963

“Sans toi ma mie,” which in Japanese is rendered as “Santois Mamii” (Santoi Mamī), is a song that has been covered by numerous Japanese artists.

It’s a piece by the Belgian composer Salvatore Adamo.

Nevertheless, it’s exactly the kind of love song we associate with France—a heartbreak song.

Filled with many beautifully flowery, even tooth-achingly sweet metaphors and expressions, it speaks to the person who has gone away.

If you want to delve deeper into the lyrics, listening to the Japanese version covered by the hugely popular Fubuki Koshiji will likely convey the atmosphere even more vividly.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Paris sera toujours ParisZAZ

ZAZ – Paris sera toujours Paris (Clip officiel)

French singer-songwriter Zaz covered Maurice Chevalier’s song “Paris sera toujours Paris” in 2014.

Chevalier, a French musician, entertainer, and national icon, originally performed the piece, which is set against the backdrop of 1939 and the war.

Zaz delivers a more rhythmic and comical interpretation.

Both versions are well worth a listen—a chanson that evokes the cheerful spirit of Paris.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Je voleLouane Emera

Louane – Je vole (subt. Español)

“Je vole” is a song by the French singer and actress Louane Emera, born in 1996.

This track is a cover of a song by the chanson singer Sardou, originally released in 1978.

Louane, who starred in the 2015 French film La Famille Bélier, performed the song in the movie, which brought it widespread attention.

The film’s family theme highlights the song’s excellence.

It’s a moving piece that sets the feelings of a girl leaving her parents to a beautiful melody.

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Murakami Shinpei

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C’est Si BonHalie Loren

C’est Si Bon – Halie Loren

The American singer Halie Loren covers the classic chanson “C’est si bon,” known in Japanese as “Se Shibon.” Many people in Japan may feel they’ve heard that phrase before, since Japanese singers have covered it as well.

The meaning is something like “it’s so good” or “so wonderful,” which perfectly captures the song’s vibe.

In this version, she sings it with a moodier, sexier touch, and the simple accompaniment of upright bass and piano evokes the atmosphere of a French jazz bar.

It’s a song you can enjoy in many versions, including ones in Japanese.

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Murakami Shinpei

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