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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 (21–30)

Falling in LoveKobayashi Akiko

Falling in Love feat. Akiko Kobayashi (Cover by GILLE)
Falling in LoveKobayashi Akiko

“Koi ni Ochite” is one of the songs that is frequently copied and covered by a cappella groups and clubs, regardless of whether they are amateur or professional.

Although it was released as a TV drama theme song, its lyrics—written in 1985, before cell phones were commonplace—are particularly memorable.

The lyricist is Reiko Yukawa.

flying getAKB48

Flying Get / AKB48 / A cappella cover
flying getAKB48

By making it a cappella, the punch surprisingly gets stronger and the result is really cool—this song, in particular.

Compared to the original, the soulful vibe comes to the forefront and feels very pleasant.

Among AKB’s songs, “365 Nichi no Kamihikouki” is often chosen for a cappella copies and covers, but please give “Flying Get” a try as well.

A cappella masterpieces of Japanese music: Popular songs that feel great to sing (31–40)

My First Kissanshin papa

[LIVE] Masayoshi Yamazaki – My First Kiss
My First Kissanshin papa

It’s a classic tune that everyone has heard at least once.

Featuring distinctively detuned vocals, this song was released as an anime theme, and it drew huge attention at the time because the singer’s identity wasn’t revealed.

Since then, various artists have covered it, and it’s often arranged for a cappella as well.

Teach me (Heidi, Girl of the Alps)Iju Kayoko

The theme song “Oshiete” from the anime Heidi, Girl of the Alps is often copied and covered a cappella.

When it’s covered, it’s sometimes sung in a slightly lower key than the original, but the lively feel of the song really shines in a bouncy a cappella arrangement.

Between the Sky and YouNakajima Miyuki

Between the Sky and You – Miyuki Nakajima [A Cappella]
Between the Sky and YouNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima’s classic “Between the Sky and You” is also one of those songs that really shine in a cappella.

Because its message is so strong, many a cappella groups and clubs choose it for their repertoire when they want listeners to really take it in through an a cappella performance.

loveHoshino Gen

Koi – Gen Hoshino [A Cappella] Koi Dance
loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino’s “Koi” is a song that, including its dance, has resonated widely across many generations.

The track has a unique power, so even as an a cappella it carries great strength.

I expect many artists will continue to cover and imitate it, and I’m also looking forward to more a cappella versions.

Listening to OliviaAnri

Anri / Listening to Olivia [Official Video]
Listening to OliviaAnri

Lyrics and composition by Ami Ozaki and Anri.

This is another classic that has been widely covered by a variety of artists, both professional and amateur.

There are many a cappella versions centered on female vocals, as well as many centered on male vocals.