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 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!
LemonYonezu Kenshi
Lemon marked Kenshi Yonezu’s first-ever tie-in with a TV drama.
Created in response to the production team of Unnatural requesting “a song that would gently embrace the wounded,” it fulfills that brief beautifully.
Words that mourn and cherish the departed, vocals that stir deep emotion, and a melody that carries a sense of sorrow while hinting at hope—this song became a signature masterpiece of 2018 that rekindles its impact no matter how many times you listen.
scale (as of a fish or reptile)Hata Motohiro
This is a song by Motohiro Hata that became a hot topic when it was released on YouTube after the Great East Japan Earthquake.
His voice shakes your very soul.
It made me feel that music truly saves people’s hearts.
Please try to hear it live at least once.
It’s a truly wonderful masterpiece.
Cheer up.Takeuchi Mariya
This song is meant to cheer up a friend after a breakup, but it’s also the kind of song you want to listen to when you need a boost.
When I was having a tough time with a string of unpleasant things at work, I listened to this song every day.
Listening to it made me feel wrapped in kindness and helped me calm down.
Catchy, familiar-sounding songs (41–50)
mermaidSuiyōbi no Campanella
This song, which captures the liberating feeling of summer, was released by Wednesday Campanella in July 2023.
Created as the campaign song for Coca-Cola’s experiential music platform “Coke STUDIO,” it’s based on a story about a mermaid who longs to attend a festival on land.
It features a catchy, familiar melody and dreamy lyrics, with a perfectly paced build-up to the chorus.
Because it’s often heard on social media, you may find yourself feeling familiar with it before you even realize.
Symbolizing the energy of summer, youth, and freedom, it’s perfect for moments when you want to refresh yourself or boost your mood.
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.
