![[Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/mhE8pLUDIec/maxresdefault.webp)
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)
I have use for that warmth.NEW!Okuda Tamio
This is a cover that radiates a fiery rock spirit.
Okuda Tamio channels the straightforward passion of Sambomaster’s original with a seasoned ease and a superb rock sound.
You can feel his veteran presence and the joy of performing, and just listening makes your heart burn.
It’s included on the tribute album “Sambomaster Kyukyoku Tribute Love From Nakama,” released in March 2020.
Created to celebrate Sambomaster’s 20th anniversary, it also drew attention for Okuda Tamio taking on one of their signature songs.
This work has a timeless rock universality that resonates across generations.
Give it a listen when you need a boost or simply want to revel in pure rock ’n’ roll.
White LoversShimizu Shota
Shota Shimizu, an R&B singer-songwriter, covered the iconic winter ballad released by Keisuke Kuwata in 2001.
It’s included on his 2012 cover album “MELODY.” Shimizu’s gentle vocals sink in deeply, transforming the original’s intense, emotionally grand feel into something simple and warmly embracing.
There’s a hint of Black music-style groove that makes it especially pleasant.
It has a smoothness that would slip right in as café BGM and somehow puts you at ease.
March 9Yuri × Harucha
A cover of Remioromen’s classic by Yuuri and Harucha.
Their clear, translucent voices intertwine, gently coloring the season of graduations, farewells, and new encounters.
Centered on the theme of bonds with loved ones and the strength their presence brings, it sings of dreams and hope alongside depictions of nature turning toward spring.
Released on March 9, 2024, the song has sparked a huge response on social media and YouTube.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at life’s milestones, such as graduation ceremonies and farewell gatherings.
For those feeling anxious about a new environment, this song offers a gentle push forward.
Love RadiantEXILE ATSUSHI
Many people surely have EXILE ATSUSHI’s voice—tinged with melancholy, blending wistfulness and sensuality—etched deep in their memories.
He enjoys overwhelming popularity among fans, who say, “It always calms me whenever I listen,” and “I can deeply relate to the lyrics.” This work is a cover of a classic by Hibari Misora, included on the album “Music,” released in March 2014.
The music video was filmed at the crater of Kīlauea Volcano on the Island of Hawai‘i, and its imagery—evoking the life force of the Earth and human existence—leaves a lasting impression.
Feeling regret, thinking things like “If I could go back, I would never let go,” is something that can happen to anyone.
All the more reason to cherish the loved one right before your eyes as if nothing could be more precious.
May it be filled with kindnessTokunaga Hideaki
Hideto Tokunaga, whose crystal-clear voice continues to captivate many, covers JUJU’s famous song that gently sings of profound feelings for a loved one.
Included on his March 2010 release, the album “VOCALIST 4,” the track was also used as the theme song for the film “Evergreen Love (Shokubutsu Zukan).” In this rendition, Tokunaga’s soft vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
It’s a perfect piece for expressing your feelings to someone irreplaceable—whether a partner, family member, or dear friend.
Why not let its heartwarming melody carry your emotions to them?
Love ForeverEito × yama
Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu’s “Love Forever” has been revived in the Reiwa era.
Performing it are Eito and yama, who drew attention in 2020 when this cover version was released.
While the original duo typically sang R&B-style tracks, Eito and yama are primarily pop singers.
Even so, they handle this mature-sounding song beautifully! Eito’s straightforward vocals and yama’s rich, deep mid-to-low tones play off each other in an addictive way you won’t be able to resist.
Blue BenchMarumoto Riko
This is a cover of a classic song themed around heartbreaking unrequited love.
Riko Marumoto’s clear, airy vocals bring out a new charm.
Included on the February 2018 album “COVER SONGS,” this track features a distinctive acoustic arrangement.
While it evokes elements of folk music, it also carries a pop sensibility.
The lyrics symbolically depict events on the “Blue Bench,” brimming with memories of youth, resonating deeply with listeners.
Delicately expressing the ache of love and shifting emotions, this work will surely comfort anyone who has experienced heartbreak.