Masterpieces by a Japanese pop duo artist
We bring you songs packed with the charm of Japanese music duos.
Bands and solo singers each have their appeal, but two-person duos are captivating in their own way.
What makes duos special is that, beyond simply layering sounds, their tight-knit expressiveness and shared emotions truly reach the listener.
When two voices blend, the music gains richness; the harmonies in the chorus feel great and leave listeners with a refreshing sensation.
This time, we’ve picked out classic tracks from Japanese duo artists.
From nationally beloved pairs to more niche acts, there’s a wide range here—give them a listen.
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- [Karaoke] Duet songs for men and women. A roundup of popular and classic tracks.
- Showa-era classic songs that brightened the 1990s
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- [Duet Songs] A roundup of recommended tracks perfect for two women to sing together!
- 【2026】A Collection of Masterpieces: Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Two Women
- Gentle love songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks
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Masterpieces by Japanese pop duo artists (1–10)
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Yuzu is a male duo often regarded as pioneers of the second street live performance movement that began in 1997.
At the time of their debut, they mainly released folk-oriented songs, but once they started attracting public attention, they shifted toward catchy pop music.
Their classic hit Eikou no Kakehashi (Bridge of Glory) was chosen as the official theme song for the Athens Olympics thanks to its catchiness.
It remains one of their best-known songs to this day.
If you’d like to hear it again, be sure to check it out!
AliensKirinji
A signature song by the Japanese duo Kirinji, it’s a moving piece whose simple, heartwarming character rides on a beautiful melody and chord progression.
Beyond the beauty of the harmonies and lyrics, the tasteful performances by each instrument—never intruding on the vocals yet expanding the song’s breadth—are also highlights.
A gem of a masterpiece that listeners of any generation should hear.
A flower that blooms only hereKobukuro
Kobukuro is a male duo renowned for their catchy melodies and harmonies.
Since their debut in 2001, they’ve remained at the forefront of the major music scene as top artists.
Among their hit songs, “Koko ni Shika Sakanai Hana” is especially popular, selling a total of 400,000 records.
It also stayed in the Oricon Top 10 for eight weeks.
As its popularity suggests, both the melody and the lyrics are crafted to be highly catchy.
Masterpieces by Japanese duo artists (11–20)
day by dayYoshida Yamada
YOSHIDA YAMADA is a male duo consisting of Yui Yoshida and Yoshitaka Yamada, who were classmates in high school.
They’re known for their languid vocals and strongly message-driven lyrics.
Their song “Hibi” (Days) is the masterpiece that first brought them widespread attention.
It’s a love song dedicated to a cherished woman, with lyrics depicting a couple who continue to love each other as they grow older.
Truly a song about everyday life.
Its catchiness earned it great popularity, and in 2014 it was selected for the Japan Record Awards.
Youthful AmigoShūji to Akira
A hit song released in 2005.
It was used as the theme song for the school drama “Nobuta wo Produce.” The duo style of Tomohisa Yamashita, who shines with his multifaceted talent, and Kazuya Kamenashi, active as a member of KAT-TUN, made a strong impression! Some of you might even say it’s a go-to duet for karaoke.
With lyrics by zopp and a mood reminiscent of old-school kayōkyoku, it has a certain nostalgic feel.
Their reunion as Kame to Yamapi in 2017 and the plans set for 2020, among other things, make their future activities something to look forward to.
For your share tooHirakawachi Icchōme
A music duo from Shizuoka Prefecture formed in 2003, Hirakawachi Icchome’s song was included on their 2004 album “Enpitsu de Tsukuru Uta.” It was used as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Until the Batteries Run Out.” With a mid-tempo, gently unfolding rhythm and a melody that evokes the laid-back feel of country music, it’s a track that brings a sense of calm to the listener.
That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19
A signature song by the folk duo 19, formed in 1998, included on their 1999 album “Ongaku” (Music).
It was also used as a TBS campaign song.
The duo’s harmonized vocals blend nicely with the mid-tempo, breezily unfolding rhythm and the lyrical, melancholic melody.