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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Great songs you’ll want to play on the harmonica: popular tracks (21–30) that look cool when you can play them.
Racing into the NightYOASOBI
Be sure to try this stylish song on harmonica! It’s a signature track by YOASOBI, the musical duo of Ayase—also popular as a Vocaloid producer—and singer ikura, released as their debut single in 2019.
The piece is based on the novel “An Invitation from Thanatos.” Built on an electronic music rhythm, its sophisticated sound grabs listeners’ hearts.
When playing it on harmonica, you might aim to emulate ikura’s soft vocal timbre.
broad daylightKing Gnu
It’s a timeless song that leaves a deep impression on the heart.
This work by King Gnu was released digitally in February 2019.
It was written as the theme song for the drama “Innocence: False Accusation Lawyer,” and it brilliantly captures the heavy theme of wrongful convictions.
The clear, gentle vocals and the soul-stirring melody are especially striking.
The song drew major attention, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.
Performed on harmonica, it would likely resonate even more deeply.
Highly recommended for those who want to perform in front of an audience.
Iconic songs you’ll want to play on the harmonica: Cool, popular tracks to master (31–40)
Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu
The song by Atarashii Gakko! portrays the gap between a grown-up appearance and a childlike heart.
Released digitally in April 2023, it won the Grand Prize at the TikTok First Half Trend Awards 2023 and received the Excellent Work Award at the Japan Record Awards.
The piece expresses the struggles of young people seeking emotional connection.
Marked by a nostalgic melody, it requires careful breath control when played on the harmonica.
The group opened the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, drawing significant attention.
With lyrics that convey a desire to be understood for one’s true self beyond appearances, the song is sure to resonate with many.
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
It’s a rock ballad that shines with a glamorous, stylish sense of sound.
It’s a song by Official HIGE DANDism, released in 2019, and it became a hot topic as the theme song for the film The Confidence Man JP.
Thanks to the piano’s tone, you can feel warmth within the track’s sleek style.
Vocalist and keyboardist Satoshi Fujihara’s straight, soaring voice is also striking.
The lyrics, which depict the struggles in a relationship with a loved one, are sure to resonate with many.
Be sure to sing it at karaoke with someone you like.
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
Yozora no Mukou, SMAP’s first million-selling single, still has many fans today.
Released in 1998 as their 27th single, it’s a classic well-known across generations.
It’s also famous for having lyrics written by Shikao Suga.
The harmonica’s plaintive tone perfectly complements the song’s mellow mood.
If you can play this song on the harmonica, you’ll probably find more opportunities to perform it.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi
It’s a beloved classic popular across generations, with lyrics by Ryoko Moriyama and music by BEGIN.
It’s said to have started when Moriyama asked BEGIN to write an Okinawan-style song.
The lyrics put into words her feelings about her older brother, who passed away when she was still young.
Rimi Natsukawa released a single covering the song in 2001, and after it was used in several commercials, it became even more famous.
The bittersweet melody pairs beautifully with the harmonica’s tone and really draws you in.
Passion ContinentHakasé Tarō
When you think of Taro Hakase, it’s this song! Loved by people of all ages, the highly recognizable piece “Jonetsu Tairiku.” This song was composed at the strong request of the show when Taro Hakase appeared on Jonetsu Tairiku, and it’s now practically the face of the program—just hearing it brings the show to mind.
While the violin is strongly associated with this piece, it also sounds incredibly cool on the harmonica and is sure to make for a powerful, satisfying performance! It may seem a bit challenging, but definitely give it a try.