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!
- Harmonica masterpieces: world-class performances you should hear at least once
- [Brass/Wind Band] Recommended for Beginners! A Collection of Classics and Popular Pieces Perfect for Practice
- [2026 Edition] Songs Loved by People in Their 60s: Classic Hits from Their Youth
- [For Seniors] Beloved songs to sing in December: heartwarming moments with nostalgic kayōkyoku and children’s songs
- [For Seniors] Popular Karaoke Songs That Everyone Can Enjoy Together
- A Must-See for Those in Their 20s: A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days
- Popular songs that are easy to sing at karaoke. Recommended classics and hit songs.
- I want to play it on the recorder! Carefully selected classic pieces and popular songs recommended
- [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
- Masterpieces for flute. Recommended pieces where the flute shines.
- Coming-of-age songs for your 50s: heart-thumping × heartwarming classics and popular tracks [2026]
- [2026 Edition] Youth Anthems for Your 40s! A Roundup of Popular Heart-Pounding × Heartwarming Songs
Great songs you’ll want to play on the harmonica: popular tracks (21–30) that look cool when you can play them.
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.
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.
Iconic songs you’ll want to play on the harmonica: Cool, popular tracks to master (31–40)
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.
electric shockYonezu Kenshi
This song expresses the pursuit of fleeting beauty and eternity.
Kenshi Yonezu’s delicate melodic lines pair well with the gentle timbre of the harmonica.
Released digitally in July 2020, it was written as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama MIU404.
It features a lively funk rhythm and distinctive sampled tracks woven throughout.
The aim was to create a track that feels great when played in a car.
The music video drew a huge response, surpassing one million views about an hour and fifty minutes after its release.
Because a single breath can convey a wide range of emotions, it’s perfect for harmonica performance.
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.
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.
Stand by MeBen E King
This song, released and made a hit by Ben E.
King in 1961, is also well known as the theme song of the 1986 American film Stand by Me.
It’s said to have been created under the influence of the African American spiritual Lord, Stand by Me.
With its simple chord progression, it remains beloved among musicians today as an easy tune for casual jam sessions.
It can even be played on a blues harp, which uses relatively few notes.