Masterpieces you’ll want to play on the harmonica. Popular songs that look cool if you can play them.
The harmonica is one of the classic instruments you’ll find at school.
Many of you have probably played it in music class, right?
Because it’s a simple instrument that produces sound just by blowing, even small children can play it easily—that’s the nice part.
This time, we’re introducing famous songs you’ll want to try playing on the harmonica at least once.
We’ve gathered a genre-spanning selection, from long-loved Japanese and Western songs to recent popular J-pop.
If you’re thinking, “I want to play popular songs on the harmonica,” or “I want to perform the harmonica in front of people,” be sure to use this as a reference!
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- [For Seniors] Winter songs you'll want to hum along to. A collection of classic tunes recommended for BGM and recreational activities
- [For Seniors] Songs to Hum in March: Heartwarming Moments with Nostalgic Classics that Evoke Spring
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- Coming-of-age songs for your 50s: heart-thumping × heartwarming classics and popular tracks [2026]
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Great songs you’ll want to play on the harmonica: popular tracks (21–30) that look cool when you can play them.
If I’m wrapped in kindnessMatsutōya Yumi
Yumi Matsutoya’s third single, “Yasashisa ni Tsutsumareta Nara,” was released in 1974.
You often hear this song on TV, and above all, it’s well known as the ending theme of the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service, making it a widely recognized tune that people of all ages have likely heard.
Many artists have covered it as well.
If you’re planning to perform the harmonica in a setting where both children and adults gather, this would be a perfect choice.
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
A hot, deeply layered rock number that gives voice to aching emotions.
It’s one of Elephant Kashimashi’s signature songs, released in July 1997.
Written specifically as the theme song for the drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” it delivers its world straight to you—vocalist Hiroji Miyamoto’s passionate voice rides the band’s powerful sound.
Walk down a night street while listening, and you might feel like crying just a little.
It’s a song that lets feelings for someone overflow.
blue skyTHE BLUE HEARTS
Among THE BLUE HEARTS’ songs, many people say they love “Aozora.” Released in 1989 as the band’s third single, it was also included on the smash-hit album TRAIN-TRAIN and later issued as a single.
With lyrics and a melody that grip the heart and won’t let go, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression even on harmonica.
When it’s performed, you can’t help but listen to the tone and find yourself singing along in your heart—perhaps it’s that kind of song.
Words of FarewellKaientai
Kaientai’s “Okuru Kotoba” is such a beautiful song—its gentle, conversational lyrics and melody really resonate with the heart.
The softly flowing melody pairs perfectly with the sound of the harmonica.
By taking a brief breath between phrases, you can add depth and create a warmer performance.
When playing it on the harmonica, practice with the intention of producing a tone that feels like a tender conversation.
If you can also express subtle pitch variations, you’ll be able to aim for an even more moving performance.
Goodbye Busyuzu
Yuzu is an artist strongly associated with the harmonica, and their gentle, upbeat songs match the instrument’s tone perfectly.
Among their tracks, how about trying “Sayonara Bus,” which begins with a memorable harmonica phrase? Because it opens with harmonica, you can carry the performance straight into the vocal part without any sense of mismatch—the tone blends naturally.
Each note is articulated clearly, so it’s important to play with attention to phrasing and dynamics.
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
It’s a song with a captivating rhythmic beat and refreshing melody.
This track by Ryokuoushoku Shakai was released in April 2020.
The lyrics, which carry the message “cherish your true self,” really resonate.
Included on the album SINGALONG, it gained attention after being used on Nippon TV’s Sukkiri.
It’s recommended for times when you want to feel positive or boost your confidence.
The music video is an animated work featuring a wolf as the protagonist.
Playing it on the harmonica could make it even more fun—why not perform it in front of friends or family?
LemonYonezu Kenshi
It’s a smash hit written as the theme song for the drama “Unnatural.” Composed by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, who has produced numerous masterpieces like “Paprika” and “Kanden,” it was released in 2017 as his eighth single.
The message of love directed toward a precious person who is no longer here is heavy, heartrending, and deeply moving.
It might be good to focus on how to express that melancholy with the harmonica.
The spacing between phrases could be crucial.
