[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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- Nagori-yuki: Popular Cover Song
- A classic song covered by major artists: cover versions of Spitz’s “Kaede.”
- [2026 Edition] Songs Loved by People in Their 60s: Classic Hits from Their Youth
- Iconic and popular songs sung by female artists: great cover versions
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[Japanese Pop Covers] A selection of classic hits beloved in both their original and arranged versions (1–10)
beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)Hata Motohiro
Released in 1999, this is one of aiko’s classic love songs that continues to be cherished.
Singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata—known for songs like “Himawari no Yakusoku”—covered it on Fuji TV’s now-defunct, iconic music program “Bokura no Ongaku.” His delicate vocals, once described early in his career as a “voice of steel and glass,” resonate beautifully.
It’s just irresistible.
Both artists are renowned for their ballads, and perhaps that’s why there’s a certain kinship between them.
I really hope this cover gets an official release.
Lingering SnowHata Motohiro
Motohiro Hata covers a classic song that poignantly depicts a farewell at a station amid unseasonal snowfall.
His soft yet powerful voice deepens the nostalgic atmosphere even further.
Emphasizing folk and acoustic elements, the arrangement breathes new life into Iruka’s masterpiece.
Even listeners intimately familiar with the original will find no discord—testament to Hata’s taste and exceptional vocal ability.
Why not revisit memories with someone dear while listening to this moving, modern interpretation of a Showa-era classic?
We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.BiSH
BiSH, who perform as a punk band without instruments, presented this song, “Dekikkonai wo Yaranakucha” (“We Gotta Do the Impossible”), on a Sambomaster tribute album.
One of Sambomaster’s signature tracks, the original is a straightforward rock song typical of a three-piece rock band.
But this cover version incorporates plenty of BiSH’s signature touches, like string arrangements and an increasingly rapid-fire, driving rhythm.
Another part of BiSH’s appeal is getting to hear each member’s distinct vocals in succession.
[Japanese Pop Cover Songs] A Selection of Classic Hits Popular in Both the Original and Arranged Versions (11–20)
threadSuda Masaki × Ishizaki Hyui
One of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature songs, “Ito,” is a timeless classic that has been covered and passed down by many artists.
In 2020, Masaki Suda also performed this song.
It was produced with Seiji Kameda as producer as a support song for the film “Ito,” starring Suda and Nana Komatsu.
The unadorned vocals of Suda and Ishizaki, along with the beautiful harmonies in the latter half, make for a deeply moving piece.
GLAMOROUS SKYHyde
A rock tune released by Mika Nakashima in 2005 that became a massive hit as the theme song for the film NANA.
HYDE, who wrote the song, self-covered it on his 2009 best-of album HYDE.
Rendered with English lyrics, it preserves the original’s worldview while giving it a more rock ’n’ roll vibe.
If you prefer Western music, HYDE’s version might feel just right.
It overflows with HYDE’s signature style and makes you want to bounce along—so cool!
MapleSuperfly
A soulful cover of a beloved Spitz classic, powerfully reimagined by Superfly in her own unique interpretation! While embracing parting and loss, it beautifully expresses the resolve to move forward.
Since its performance on NHK’s “SONGS” in April 2023, it has become a major talking point among fans.
Shiho Ochi’s powerful, soulful vocals breathe new life into the song.
Listening to this piece will surely bring a warm light to the hearts of those who have experienced a farewell with someone dear.
It’s also a track that will give courage to anyone ready to take a new step forward.
Daydream Believeryama
Daydream Believer, sung by The Timers, the rock band fronted by Kiyoshiro Imawano.
In fact, the song itself is a cover of the American rock band The Monkees.
The track is well known as a Seven-Eleven commercial song, and in 2021 it was covered by the singer yama.
yama’s characteristically gentle soundwork and stylish arrangement are striking, resulting in a refined impression that highlights yama’s signature smoky voice.