Even that overseas musician!? Popular cover versions of 'Itoshi no Ellie'
Southern All Stars’ classic ballad, “Itoshi no Ellie.” Keisuke Kuwata’s husky voice pairs beautifully with the gentle, soothing melody—truly a masterpiece among masterpieces! It’s a signature song of the J-pop scene, but it’s also remarkably popular overseas.
Believe it or not, it’s been covered by Ray Charles and The Ventures! Of course, many top-tier musicians in Japan have covered it as well, and the versions introduced in this article are all outstanding.
Be sure to listen through to the end.
- [The Spirit of Japan] A special feature on Southern All Stars’ classic hits. Gemlike songs
- “Cherry” Popular Cover Songs
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- A classic song covered by major artists: cover versions of Spitz’s “Kaede.”
- Great covers of classic and popular songs sung by male artists
- Southern All Stars Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
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- [If You Can Sing These, You're Amazing!] Cool Karaoke Songs for Women
- Acoustic versions of popular songs: a roundup of arrangements and cover tracks
- [Songs That Make You Popular] Sing these to be a hit! Women’s karaoke songs
- Karaoke songs that make it easy for women to score high
- [Covers of Japanese Songs] A selection of classic hits where both the original and the arranged versions are popular
- A cover of the genre-defying classic “Konya wa Boogie-Back.”
That overseas musician too!? Popular cover versions of “Itoshi no Ellie” (11–20)
My Dear EllieHirose Kōmi
This track is included on Kōmi Hirose’s 2001 release “Kōmi Hirose THE BEST ‘Love Winters ~ballads~’,” and it’s a more up-tempo, 16-beat, rhythmical rendition compared to the original.
When an artist with a completely different vocal quality from Keisuke Kuwata sings it, a whole new kind of appeal emerges.
My Dear EllieShimizu Shota
Shota Shimizu is a Japanese singer-songwriter.
He tends to leave an impression with gentle, upbeat songs.
I feel that one of his strengths is singing effortlessly and refreshingly.
However, in “Itoshi no Ellie,” you can feel a powerful, passionate love.
The swelling excitement as it builds toward the chorus is irresistible.
My Dear EllieSaijō Hideki
Here is the cover version by Hideki Saijo, who was in the same school year as Keisuke Kuwata.
Saijo appeared as a guest at Southern All Stars concerts, and Kuwata also covered several of Saijo’s songs, giving a clear sense of mutual respect.
Saijo’s straightforward singing brings out the charm of this song.
In conclusion
The classic song “Itoshi no Ellie,” which has been covered by numerous major musicians, including international artists.
There were many wonderful covers that really let you savor each performer’s vocal strengths! Some versions featured unique arrangements as well, so take your time listening and find your favorite!