A catchy tune that sounds familiar
There are quite a few songs we often hear—commercial jingles, theme songs, tracks that go viral on social media, and timeless classics—without actually knowing their titles.
Many of us have probably experienced that thrill of carefully listening from the intro, and then, when the chorus hits, realizing, “I know this song!”
In this article, we’ll introduce many of those “songs you’ve heard somewhere before.”
If you’ve been feeling that nagging “I can hum it, but I don’t know what it’s called…” sensation, this is definitely for you.
- Memorable masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- Popular Songs Frequently Heard on YouTube Shorts [Carefully Selected Edition]
- [Topic] An ultra-stylish commercial jingle: the secrets behind the catchy track
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- Heartwarming nostalgic commercial jingles: a special collection of timeless hits that take you back.
- We’ve picked out famous in-store background music. Introducing trending tracks and catchy tunes all at once.
- Catchy commercial jingles. A roundup of those songs grabbing attention in ads!
- Moving songs featured in commercials: timeless masterpieces that move the heart
- [Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Touching songs popular on TikTok. From hit tracks to hidden gems, we introduce a range of favorites.
- [February 2026] Trending Songs: A roundup of the hottest viral tracks right now
- A Must-See for Those in Their 20s: A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days
Catchy, familiar songs (11–20)
Friday Nightnatori
Natori’s 2022 track “Friday Night,” which drew attention after being featured in a Spotify commercial, is brimming with an alluring, languid, airy melody that makes you want to loop it over and over.
The lyrics depict slipping out of reality on a Friday night and spending the time just as you please.
On the night before a day off, many people feel the same urge to forget reality and enjoy their freedom.
When you want to temporarily forget everything that’s going on and bask in a sense of liberation, be sure to give this song a listen.
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
It’s no exaggeration to say this is one of the most famous songs in the Japanese rock scene—a signature track by BUMP OF CHICKEN.
Released in 2001, it was used as an insert song for a drama of the same name in 2002.
Later, in 2013, it was also featured in a docomo commercial.
It’s a staple for cover bands and a go-to for school festival stages, so you’ve probably heard it there.
It’s also frequently included in rhythm games, making it a classic that almost everyone has encountered somewhere.
Let’s go see (someone).UA
If you often see TV or internet commercials—or if you frequently ride the Shinkansen—you’ve probably heard this song sung by singer-songwriter UA.
That’s because “Ai ni Ikou” was used in JR Central’s commercial, “Going to See Someone Changes Today,” and as of July 21, 2023, the Tokaido Shinkansen’s onboard chime was changed from TOKIO’s “AMBITIOUS JAPAN!” to this song.
This track, which celebrates the happiness of being able to go see the person you want to meet, is sure to gently warm your heart when you listen to it.
A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly
One of Superfly’s signature songs, released in 2008.
It begins with a delicate piano accompaniment, then unfolds into grand string arrangements, and even features sections where you can fully savor rock ’n’ roll—showcasing a wide range of expressions in a single track.
Many people may know it as the theme song for the drama “Edison no Haha,” and because its lyrics are perfect for expressing gratitude, it’s also a popular wedding song.
I’m sure many have heard it played at weddings they’ve attended.
Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number
They’ve produced so many hit songs that back number is now practically synonymous with love songs.
For many people, this song might have been their introduction to the band.
It’s one of their signature tracks, released in 2013.
The danceable arrangement is striking, but the lyrics tell the story of a self-deprecating, timid man who secretly has feelings for a certain woman.
It may come off a bit whiny, but many men can probably relate.
Even without a tie-in, it’s a very popular song, so you’ve likely heard it somewhere!
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
Higedan burst onto Japan’s band scene in a flash, just about a year after their major-label debut.
“Pretender” was chosen as the theme song for the film The Confidence Man JP.
Its clean, pleasantly catchy pop sound slips right into your ears, with casually woven rhymes.
The chord progressions that occasionally make your heart skip a beat and the down-to-earth lyrics that make you want to say, “Yeah, that’s so true,” are also part of the appeal.
Catchy, familiar-sounding songs (21–30)
plateauSakanakushon
Does anyone remember the Sante FX commercial “Yes, those eyes — Accompaniment,” where Ichiro Yamaguchi, the vocalist of Sakanaction, performed a solo rendition? Compared to other commercials, it was strikingly sensational and left a deep impression on many viewers.
The song featured in that ad is Plateau.
In its band arrangement, the track feels entirely different from the stripped-down image of the commercial’s solo performance.
The word “plateau” in the title refers to a state of stagnation, and reading the lyrics with that in mind reveals someone struggling to break through their current situation amid various inner conflicts.
For those in a similar place, this song might become a source of support.