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.
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Catchy, familiar-sounding songs (21–30)
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
This is what you call “emo,” right? It’s one of Sakanaction’s signature tracks with a massive vibe.
It was also used as the theme song for the movie “Bakuman” and became a huge hit.
The 158 bpm tempo that feels like a light jog, the somewhat retro sound, the razor-sharp phrases—every part of it is emo.
And the sudden burst of speed in the chorus is just insane.
It’s so good it makes you lose your vocabulary—emo, insane, you name it.
crimsonX JAPAN
A five-piece rock band that arguably brought the metal genre into mainstream recognition within Japan’s rock scene, X JAPAN released this as their first major-label single.
Its composition—beginning with majestic strings, moving into clean guitar arpeggios, then suddenly shifting into a full-on metal sound—felt almost like listening to classical music and made a tremendous impact on the music scene at the time.
Transforming metal, once perceived as merely aggressive, into something undeniably beautiful, this is a song that is indispensable when discussing the history of Japanese rock.
Catchy songs you’ve heard somewhere before (31–40)
I’ll walk home.Saitō Kazuyoshi
Aruite Kaerou, which gained popularity as the opening song for the children’s program Ponkikkies, is one of Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature tracks—he’s also known for classics like Utautai no Ballad and Wedding Song.
Although it was released in 1994, the song has remained popular as a commercial jingle and a TV theme.
Even if you didn’t know it was by Kazuyoshi Saito, you’ve probably heard it somewhere.
It’s a timeless classic that continues to be sung today, and it’s especially soothing when you listen to it when you’re tired.
loveHoshino Gen
It became a huge sensation as the theme song for the drama “We Married as a Job!” (“Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu”), and the Koi Dance performed to this track went so viral it was practically a social phenomenon! From 2016 to 2017, I’m sure many people used this song to put on performances at year-end and New Year parties.
The song itself is an up-tempo piano rock number, with a catchy, pop melody that’s quintessential Gen Hoshino—memorable and a joy to listen to.
You’ll probably be humming along after just one listen!
Spring ThiefYorushika
This song is the fifth release from Yorushika, a two-person rock band of a man and a woman who keep their visuals and detailed profiles private.
Chosen as the commercial song for Taisei Corporation, its lyrics liken cherry blossoms to life and the wind to time, resonating deeply with a fresh melody and gentle vocals.
With a memorable acoustic guitar arpeggio that evokes the warmth of spring and a catchy, liberating chorus that feels like the view opening up before you, it’s a superb track where lyrics and music blend together at a remarkably high level.
Close your eyesHirai Ken
It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World” and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.
Even now, it continues to be covered and loved both in Japan and abroad, and I believe it endures as a memorable classic that is often used on television and elsewhere.
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS
It was written by RADWIMPS as an insert song for director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film Your Name., and because Shinkai was already a fan of the band, they were asked to handle all of the film’s music.
The song’s title, Zenzenzense, is striking and gives an impression that makes it easy to catch the rhythm, and the music video carries that title image forward, resulting in a fun production featuring ninjas, peasants, and band members in kimono.
