[Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular
You know how musicians sometimes perform covers of other musicians’ songs, right?
Sometimes there’s a single cover track at the end of an album, sometimes it’s performed on a TV show, or it’s part of a tribute album…
Cover songs are fun to listen to because they convey respect for the original artist while showcasing each musician’s own arrangement.
It’s amazing how much the same song can change depending on who’s singing it!
This article will introduce lots of such cover songs.
We’ve got everything from faithful renditions of the originals to arrangements that really highlight the covering musician’s individuality, so take your time and enjoy.
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- A classic song covered by major artists: cover versions of Spitz’s “Kaede.”
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- Iconic and popular songs sung by female artists: great cover versions
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[Japanese Pop Cover Songs] A selection of classic hits where both the original and arranged versions are popular (71–80)
Good night, crybaby; farewell, songstress.Aina ji Endo
This is CreepHyp’s first single, released in 2012.
As part of the 2018 exhibition “CreepHyp’s Subete—Lend Us Your Lyrics, Let Us Visualize Them,” it was covered by Aina the End, who has been making great strides both with BiSH and as a solo artist.
With her overwhelmingly unique expressive power, Aina captivates many listeners.
While the fragile, beautiful world drawn solely by the vocals feels tight around the chest, it also conveys a strength that makes you face yourself.
KanadeKamishiraishi Mone
Mone Kamishiraishi is not only an actress but also actively works as a singer.
In addition to her own original songs, she has performed a wide range of cover songs over the years, and one I’d like to highlight is her cover of Sukima Switch’s “Kanade.” A video of her performing the song a cappella has been uploaded to YouTube, and many viewers were likely astonished by the power of her vocals.
Her pure, unadorned, beautiful voice and the emotion she pours into her singing have a captivating charm that grips people’s hearts.
Sad songWada Akiko
Akiko Wada’s cover is captivating for its soulful, powerful vocals.
It stands apart from the original’s cute, poppy vibe, resulting in an arrangement highlighted by a dazzling horn section.
Her performance conveys a determination to move forward even while bearing sadness, and it’s sure to resonate with listeners.
The track was included on the 1998 album “DYNAMITE-A-GO-GO!!!”.
With an interpretation only the Queen of R&B, Akiko Wada, could deliver, it’s a song that supports those trying to overcome the pain of a broken heart.
It’s especially recommended for times when you’re feeling down or want to lift your head and take a step forward.
[Japanese Pop Cover Songs] A Selection of Beloved Classics Popular in Both Their Original and Arranged Versions (81–90)
Hello, Again ~ A Place That’s Been Around Since Long AgoJUJU
The original song is by My Little Lover.
It’s been arranged as a ballad, showcasing JUJU’s overwhelming vocal prowess.
Sung by a mature woman, it gains more depth than the original, conveying the strength of a woman moving toward the future and resonating deeply in the heart.
Beyond the GoodbyeMiura Yutaro
Yutaro Miura is known for being the son of singer Momoe Yamaguchi, and he has now released a long-awaited cover album, “I’m HOME,” featuring only Momoe Yamaguchi’s songs.
It includes her signature song, “Across the Border of Goodbye.” After much inner conflict, he decided that carrying on his mother’s songs was his mission, which led to this release.
You can fully feel his resolve in the performances, and his faithful renditions of the originals likely moved many listeners across generations.
My Dear EllieHirai Ken
It was released in 1979 as Southern All Stars’ third single.
It was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Fuzoroi no Ringo-tachi” and continues to be sung today as one of the band’s signature songs.
It was covered and included on Ken Hirai’s third concept cover album, “Ken’s Bar III.” The song beautifully showcases Ken Hirai’s clear, falsetto vocals.
threadATSUSHI
The original song is by Miyuki Nakajima.
In a complete shift from EXILE’s usual image, they deliver a flawless rendition of this exquisite ballad.
Even though it’s a song originally for a female vocalist, they handle the high notes with ease, moving listeners deeply.
It’s a cover that exudes warmth and gentleness.