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Classic Japanese a cappella songs: popular tracks that feel great to sing

When you hear the word “a cappella,” what songs come to mind?You probably imagine the beautiful harmonies of a vocal group.Of course, there are songs by artists like The Gospellers who focus on a cappella, but even in various genres—pop, R&B, rock—you can often find elements that feel a cappella at their core, with unaccompanied, voice-only performances as the foundation.Here, we’ll pick out famous Japanese songs where you can really feel those a cappella elements!When you’re in the mood to be soothed by beautiful voices, be sure to find a favorite track from this playlist.

Classic Japanese a cappella songs: Popular tracks that feel great to sing (11–20)

sparklingOda Kazumasa

Kira Kira / Kazumasa Oda [A Cappella] Kunetomo
sparklingOda Kazumasa

Kazumasa Oda’s “Kira Kira” is also one of those songs that’s frequently covered and copied in a cappella.

The chorus has a melody that inspires hope.

When it was first released, it served as the theme song for a certain TV drama, and later it was featured as the theme for a daytime show on another network, which brought it renewed attention.

KISS OF LIFEHirai Ken

KISS OF LIFE – Ken Hirai [A cappella]
KISS OF LIFEHirai Ken

This is a hit song by Ken Hirai where the chorus’s standout moments really hit home.

The a cappella version is also compelling, so it’s often covered by a cappella groups and clubs.

The contrast between the solo and harmony parts is sharp, making it a very satisfying piece to sing.

SWEET MEMORIESMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda’s “Sweet Memories” is also one of the songs that’s frequently copied and covered in a cappella.

The harmony that begins right from the intro is exquisite.

From the middle section—where you’re drawn into lyrics that weave together longing and nostalgia—to the flow of the chorus, it’s a perfect fit for a cappella.

From our joined handsback number

back number – From the Hands We Held
From our joined handsback number

This song becomes even more vivid when performed a cappella, bringing out the lively, colorful feel of back number’s original.

It’s often covered by mixed-gender a cappella groups and circles, perhaps because it’s a song where I sing my feelings to you.

Harmony at Summer’s EndInoue Yosui & Anzen Chitai (Tamaoki Koji)

When it comes to harmony songs by a male duo, isn’t Yosui Inoue and Koji Tamaki’s “Harmony at the End of Summer” the quintessential example? There are many acoustic performances out there, but the a cappella and orchestral versions are both stunning as well.

They really highlight the beauty of the piece.

WITH YOUJUJU

JUJU 'WITH YOU' A cappella Performance SPOT
WITH YOUJUJU

This is JUJU’s 30th commemorative single, released in 2015.

Since it was used as the ending theme for a TBS news program at the time, many of you may have heard it.

Although the TV spot featuring an a cappella performance drew attention, the original track is acoustic.

Classic Japanese a cappella songs: Popular tracks that feel great to sing (21–30)

HallelujahRAG FAIR

This is a single released in 2005.

It’s a feel-good a cappella number that captures the heart of a man smitten with a woman.

Is it about a date, perhaps? The light, breezy melody and the steady rhythm supported by vocal percussion make your spirits pop! You can even sense a slightly sweet vibe.

It overflows with the fresh, cute charm of RAG FAIR—so fun! I think it’s perfect for right before a date, or for times when you want to lift your mood without getting too hyped up.