[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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- Iconic and popular songs sung by female artists: great cover versions
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[Cover Songs of Japanese Music] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular (41–50)
TATTOKiyoharu
Kiyoharu has covered Akina Nakamori’s “TATTOO.” Akina Nakamori looked cool dancing in a sexy outfit in the original, and Kiyoharu also sings it with a sexy vibe.
The music video for this song is really cool as well, and it’s a rendition that stands up to the original.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Tokunaga Hideaki
This is a heartfelt cover by Hideaki Tokunaga of one of Yo Hitoto’s signature songs.
While preserving the original’s gentleness and warmth, Tokunaga’s characteristically expansive and powerful voice dramatically changes the song’s impression.
Originally released by Yo Hitoto in 2004, the track captivated many listeners, including an impressive run of 125 consecutive weeks on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The lyrics—expressing deep love for someone precious and hopes for the future—are particularly memorable, making it a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.
Why not listen to it while thinking of someone dear, whether a partner or a family member?
Shopping BoogieUA
This is a cover by UA, known for her distinctive vocals, of a song originally released in 1950.
Set to a lively boogie-woogie rhythm, it humorously depicts a shopping trip at the market in Osaka dialect.
No fewer than forty different products appear one after another, and the repeated call-and-response of “Ossan!” leaves a strong impression.
Included on the album KABA, released in June 2010, this track draws out new charm through UA’s unique singing.
Though it centers on the familiar theme of everyday shopping, the witty lyrics and singular vocal style make it a thoroughly entertaining listen.
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
The original song is by Billy BanBan.
This cover version was featured in a TV commercial and became a hot topic.
For generations unfamiliar with the original, she has made it so much her own that it feels like her original song.
It has a lighter touch than enka, making it easy to listen to, and it captured the hearts of many people.
Winter is starting.Every Little Thing
This song, released in 1991 as Noriyuki Makihara’s fourth single, is one of his signature tracks and reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
Every Little Thing covered it on their 33rd single, “Koi o Shiteiru/Fuyu ga Hajimaru yo feat.
Noriyuki Makihara,” released in 2007, with Makihara himself participating in the chorus.
AutomaticOkamura Yasuyuki
Yasuyuki Okamura covers a song that portrays the automatic reactions of romantic feelings, delivering it with his uniquely distinctive vocal style.
While preserving the charm of the original, it feels completely reborn as an Okamura track.
The original was released in December 1998 as Hikaru Utada’s debut single and garnered major attention.
Through Okamura’s idiosyncratic interpretation, a new emotional depth is added that resonates powerfully with listeners.
Blending R&B and pop sensibilities, it captures the intuitive motions of a heart in love, making it a perfect recommendation for moments when you want to savor comfortable, intimate time with someone special.
wailing in griefKato Miria
Released in 1993 as Shizuka Kudo’s 18th single, this song was used as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Ano Hi ni Kaeritai.” In 2012, Miliyah Kato covered the song as the B-side of her single “AIAIAI,” marking the first cover by someone other than Kudo herself and lyricist Miyuki Nakajima.