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 (1–10)
UmizaruSatō Naoki
The hugely popular drama and film series “Umizaru.” Its composer, Naoki Sato, is one of the leading hit-makers in Japan’s soundtrack industry.
He works across a wide range of fields, from anime to commercials, and has won Japan Academy Prizes for the films “Always: Sunset on Third Street” and “The Eternal Zero.” Many tracks from “Umizaru” have been released—be sure to check them out.
I Will Follow HimPeggy March
Sister Act is a 1992 American comedy film about a nightclub singer who witnesses a murder and causes a commotion at the convent where she’s hidden.
This song became famous for being used at the beginning and the end of the film.
Carry OnKygo, Rita Ora
The movie Detective Pikachu, which made waves in Japan with the “wrinkly Pikachu,” features a soundtrack choice that’s decidedly Hollywood: a sophisticated EDM track by DJ Kygo.
In Japan, a Pikachu movie would likely have gone with a cute, all-ages pop song, but this one delivers a more mature vibe.
Even so, it’s a moving piece that adds depth to the film’s world.
Pokémon fans, definitely give it a listen!
Masterpieces of Film Music: From Hollywood Classics to Japanese Cinema (11–20)
Danger ZoneKenny Loggins
As soon as this song starts playing, you can’t help but want to throw on a leather jacket—Top Gun was that big of a hit at the time.
Men admired Tom Cruise, and women fell for Maverick, the character he played; it’s a sweet yet dangerous love story.
And the fact that it’s set at an elite fighter pilot training school had everyone hooked.
Another Day Of SunLa La Land
A song from the musical film La La Land, which was a major hit in Japan as well.
Some of you may have been instantly captivated by this flowing jazz number that plays in the opening scene.
It offers delightfully satisfying acting, dance, and music—the very essence of what a musical film should be.
Independent Women, Pt. IDestiny’s Child
Speaking of the movie Charlie’s Angels, it’s a story that has been popular since 1976 with the tagline “the most powerful women on Earth.” It was adapted into a film again in 2000, with the hugely popular Destiny’s Child chosen for the theme song, which created a lot of buzz.
They’re a perfect match for the ultimate leading ladies.
The catchy sound and powerful harmonies make it an incredibly cool classic.
You should definitely check out the movie, too.
Into the Unknown (From “Frozen 2”)Idina Menzel, AURORA
It’s the English version of the theme song from the movie Frozen 2.
Like the Japanese version, it’s sung by Idina Menzel, who plays Elsa, and it was released a bit earlier in October 2019.
Needless to say, the lyrics are in English, but I think you’ll notice a different kind of charm compared to the Japanese version, so I hope you’ll give them a listen side by side.