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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.

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

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.

ForeverGosuperāzu

The Gospellers “Eien ni” Music Video
ForeverGosuperāzu

Speaking of male a cappella groups, it has to be The Gospellers.

Their song “Towa ni” not only has beautiful harmonies, but the solo parts are outstanding as well—I hope you’ll listen and be captivated.

The chorus is so good you’ll want to play it over and over again.

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.

Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi

Rimi Natsukawa “Nada Sousou” Music Video
Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi

Rimi Natsukawa’s “Nada Sou Sou” is one of those songs that has been copied and covered by many a cappella groups and circles—male, female, and mixed alike.

The lyrics are by Ryoko Moriyama, and the music is by BEGIN.

It’s a classic that I hope will continue to be sung widely for years to come.

A cappella masterpieces of Japanese music: Popular songs that feel good to sing (41–50)

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko

From the very beginning of the song, the clear, soaring voice is breathtaking.

It transcends the realm of anime songs and is widely loved.

The original was sung by Yoko Takahashi and released as the theme song for Evangelion.

It has been taken up by a cappella groups, a cappella circles, and choirs, continuing to evolve even further.

God of RomanceHirose Kōmi

This is a song that caught fire from a commercial and swept the era.

It was arranged for a cappella as well, and it remains one of the most frequently copied and covered tracks.

Since Kōmi Hirose’s vocals pack a punch, it’s a recommended choice for groups with a powerful lead in the center.