[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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[Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of classic hits popular in both their original and arranged versions (21–30)
MiracleMatsuzaki Shigeru
A masterful cover by one of Japan’s most iconic singers, infused with powerful vocals and a fiery spirit.
With his uniquely rich voice, Shigeru Matsuzaki brilliantly conveys the warmth and hope of the original song’s message.
This work reinterprets GReeeeN’s massive hit released in May 2008 from the perspective of a veteran singer, making it a piece that resonates across generations.
The lyrics, which sing of the bonds with loved ones and the importance of cherishing life’s small joys, take on an even deeper meaning through Matsuzaki’s performance.
Celebrating the importance of overcoming life’s joys and sorrows together, this song is recommended both for long-time couples and for young pairs about to embark on life together.
LA LA LA Love Songayaka
The original song is by Toshinobu Kubota.
It’s a super famous track that sold over a million copies in the ’90s.
Although Ayaka is strongly associated with ballads, she delivers a perfectly funky cover that preserves the vibe of the original while keeping her own individuality, making for a very refreshing listen.
[Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of famous tracks where both the originals and the arranged versions are popular (31–40)
crimsonSHOW-YA
The original song is by X JAPAN.
As pioneers among female hard rock bands, they truly stood out—and I doubt there’s any other female vocalist who can deliver this song with such power.
It’s a faithful cover of the original, but since the entire band is female, you can feel a refined, high-level musicianship shining through the heaviness.
My First KissHi-STANDARD
The original song is Hajimete no Chuu, the theme song of the anime Kiteretsu Daihyakka.
It beautifully transforms the cute original into a gutsy punk sound.
Thanks to its very easy-to-listen arrangement, it seems to be commonly used as background music at weddings and similar events.
Love Story Comes SuddenlyChris Hart
The original song is by Kazumasa Oda.
It’s sung in remarkably clear Japanese that you wouldn’t expect from a non-native speaker.
Even among Japanese artists, few can sing in a way that lets you catch the lyrics this clearly.
He also handles the high notes—which are considered difficult for male singers—effortlessly, delivering a perfectly executed and very pleasant performance.
Galaxy Express 999EXILE feat. VERBAL（m-flo）
It was a single released by Godiego in 1979 and was used as the theme song for the film version of Galaxy Express 999 (The Galaxy Express 999).
EXILE covered it on their 2008 best-of album EXILE CATCHY BEST.
This cover also features VERBAL (m-flo), and it’s a song that really energizes live performances.
Journey of the HeartGO!GO!7188
This is a cover song by the rock band GO!GO!7188.
They powerfully express the original track’s bittersweet farewell scene with their own punk-style arrangement.
It was included on the album “Tora no Ana 2,” released in July 2007, and received high praise from fans.
Known as a work that showcases the band’s broad musical range, it stays fresh by respecting the original melody while adding a distinctive twist.
It’s a song we recommend to anyone grappling with a breakup or the emotional distance from someone important.
Through GO!GO!7188’s unique interpretation, you’re sure to rediscover the charm of the original.