Masterpieces of film music: from Hollywood classics to Japanese cinema
“I’ve heard it somewhere but can’t remember!” “I forgot the song title or the artist’s name!” A special feature of famous film music for those in exactly that situation!
From themes of blockbuster films to the latest buzzworthy hits.
We’ve carefully selected a wide range—from nostalgic classics to fairly recent works!
In the first half, we’ll focus mainly on relatively new pieces; in the second half, we’ll introduce popular tracks, including hall-of-fame classics.
We hope you find the one song you’ve been looking for!
Please enjoy!
- [Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies: those unforgettable classics and popular tunes
- [Western Films] Moving Movie Theme Songs: A Compilation of Tear-Jerking Theme Tracks
- Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
- 【2026】A Roundup of the Latest Masterpieces and Popular Tracks in Film Music
- [2026] Relive those iconic moments… Recommended theme songs and insert songs from Western films
- Most popular songs from the Pirates of the Caribbean series
- [90s Western Films] Theme Songs & Insert Songs: Nostalgic Classics
- A compilation of film music played on the piano / that I want to play on the piano
- Main Themes and Theme Songs Throughout the Harry Potter Series
- The theme song of a romantic film that gives you a heart-fluttering, moving feeling.
- Popular songs from the Fast & Furious series
- Star Wars Music: All-Time Theme Songs and Popular BGM [2026]
- Theme and insert songs from dramas and films that color the story
Masterpieces of Film Music: From Hollywood Classics to Japanese Cinema (121–130)
Let it goMatsu Takako, May J.
It’s a song from the 2013 Disney film Frozen.
It became a huge hit not only in Japan but around the world.
The English version was sung by Idina Menzel, while in Japan it was released under the title “Ari no Mama de,” performed by Takako Matsu and May J., and became a major hit.
The song opens in a minor key with a somewhat wistful feel, but in the latter half it shifts to a more major tone and the music builds dramatically.
Bayside ShakedownMatsumoto Akihiko
We would like to introduce something from the hugely popular drama and film series “Bayside Shakedown” (Odoru Daisousasen).
This comes highly recommended.
Rather than being a soundtrack tailored strictly to match the film’s scenes, each track stands on its own as a piece of music, with distinctive character, making it very satisfying to listen to.
The album released went on to sell one million copies—an exceptional achievement for a Japanese soundtrack.
Daydream BelieverMorikawa Kokone
It’s the theme song of the 2017 animated film Napping Princess: The Story of the Unknown Me.
The song was originally released and made a hit in 1967 by the American idol group The Monkees.
Kokone Morikawa’s version differs slightly from the original, featuring a more supple, delicate arrangement.
In Japan, beyond this film, it has also been used in numerous commercials.
Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My HeadB.J.Thomas
The title of this song in Japan is “Even if I’m Soaked by the Rain.” Even if you haven’t seen the film, many of you probably know the song.
It’s a masterpiece of American New Cinema starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, and its tragic ending was quintessential New Cinema.
Masterpieces of film music: From Hollywood classics to Japanese films (131–140)
Into the WestAnnie Lennox
A grand ballad with graceful melodies and lingering resonance beautifully colors the moving ending of a fantasy film.
Woven from a mystical vocal and orchestral arrangement, this piece, themed around the end of a journey and a new beginning, quietly moves the listener’s heart.
Released in November 2003, it was used over the end credits of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, based on J.R.R.
Tolkien’s novel, and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 76th Academy Awards.
Annie Lennox’s crystalline voice enhances the lingering emotion of the story.
It’s a perfect song for moments when you want to soothe your heart with calm, or embrace a farewell with someone dear in a positive light.
Even those unfamiliar with the film’s story will feel its universal, heart-stirring appeal.
Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill MeU2
With its powerful fusion of alternative rock and glam rock, this dark and majestic theme song—depicting a solitary hero—leaves a strong impression.
The harmony between U2’s distinctive guitar sound and orchestral arrangements brilliantly captures the film’s world.
Released in June 1995, it was featured on the soundtrack for the movie Batman Forever.
The track is also included on the album The Best of 1990–2000 and remains a live favorite.
Its compelling guitar riffs and grand arrangement make it perfect not only for recalling scenes from the film but also as ideal driving music.
Enjoy a thrilling musical experience with U2’s signature, weighty sound.
MiserlouDick Dale & His Del-tones
A representative work of Quentin Tarantino, it won numerous awards including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Dick Dale’s “Misirlou,” by the so-called King of Surf Guitar, is a classic main theme that creates edge-of-your-seat excitement—it grabs your heart within the first few seconds.
The film is packed with memorable scenes that fans still talk about, and the moment when John Travolta and Uma Thurman jump into a dance contest and perform is especially moving.