[Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

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.

[Japanese pop covers] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular (111–120)

I want to see you.Tokunaga Hideaki

Hideaki Tokunaga - I Want to See You

I want to see you.Tokunaga Hideaki

Hideaki Tokunaga has covered Chikaco Sawada’s song “Aitai.” Speaking of Tokunaga, his album “VOCALIST,” which features covers of various songs, was a huge hit.

I think his vocal range matches that of female vocalists, and it really suits the mood—it’s wonderful.

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beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)Yoshioka Kiyoe

Beetle – aiko (Full)

beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)Yoshioka Kiyoe

Ikimono-gakari’s Kiyoe Yoshioka has covered Aiko’s “Kabutomushi.” On her own radio program, Yoshioka would perform and showcase various cover songs.

Ikimono-gakari has also performed many covers, some of which have even been included as B-sides on their singles.

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SmileMori Nana

Nana Mori - Smile (Music Video)

SmileMori Nana

Nana Mori, who is currently very active as an actress, sings “Smile,” a song originally released by HOF DYNAMICS (Hof Dylan) in 1996.

It was actually used as the theme song for the hugely popular anime Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo at the time! The original by HOF DYNAMICS features a relaxed, laid-back feel, whereas Nana Mori’s cover showcases her signature cheerful energy, giving it a different kind of charm from the original.

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In conclusion

We introduced cover songs by popular musicians! There were a variety of tracks, from faithful renditions of the originals to arrangements packed with the covering artist’s unique style.

You may have discovered some wonderful covers or found out that your favorite musician has covered an unexpected song.

If you look around, you’ll find plenty of tribute and cover albums, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out!