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 (41–50)
A flower for a monmezutto mayonaka de ii no ni.
A track where the brass and slap bass feel great and the chorus melody is addictive.
ACA-ne’s vocals radiate clarity, and the lyrics—depicting the complexity of life and the everyday swings of joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasure—really resonate.
It’s included on the album “Jinkougaku,” released in June 2023, with a nationwide tour announced around the same time.
Brimming with a charm that might keep you up late, it’s perfect for those who want to cherish their alone time.
A song that lets you savor an unforgettable melody and a lyrical world rich in depth.
One Last KissUtada Hikaru
A digital-only single by singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who made a sensational debut at the tender age of 15 and has since released many major hits.
Written as the theme song for Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, the final installment of the Rebuild of Evangelion film series for which she has provided theme songs since 2007, the track features Utada’s signature rhythmic melody and an exceptional arrangement that builds depth and richness as it progresses.
Evoking a catharsis befitting the end of a grand story, it’s a fitting piece to close out a work that has captivated fans for many years.
Paradise Has No BorderToukyou Sukapara Daisu Ookesutora
Known by the nickname “Ska-Para,” Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra is a nine-member band that immediately comes to mind when talking about ska bands in Japan.
This track, which was also used in commercials, is a well-known number for its collaborations with figures like Ken Shimura, Sakana-kun, and Mai Shiraishi.
Even though it’s an instrumental without vocals, its catchy melody and arrangement have made it a quintessential Japanese ska number that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Summer SongYUI
A refreshing song perfect for summer! Back in high school, I have fond memories of practicing hard to play YUI’s songs on acoustic guitar.
I couldn’t hold the barre chords at first, but after practicing over and over, I finally managed to play them.
YUI’s songs are great for practicing acoustic guitar!
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
When it comes to Tamio Okuda, he’s famous as the frontman of the rock band Unicorn, but he’s also released great songs under his own name.
Among them, one of the most well-known is Easy Rider.
Even if the intro or first verse didn’t ring a bell, you probably thought, “Oh, this song!” when the chorus came in, right? Its breezy, laid-back vibe is so pleasant that it’s been used in many commercials!
A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo
A song by Ringo Sheena that became the theme for Coca-Cola’s 2015 summer campaign.
While it’s crafted as a summery dance tune, it also carries an atmosphere that evokes a gently serene “Japanese summer,” perhaps thanks to its uniquely literary lyrics.
Nostalgia nestled within pop that makes your body sway on its own—no wonder it captivates listeners.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
The moment you hear the intro that starts with the chorus, I bet many of you immediately recognize it! It was the theme song for the drama “Kids War 3,” right? Then, ten years after its release, in 2011, it became the theme song for the hugely popular anime “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day,” bringing it back into the spotlight.
The lyric mentioning “ten years later” is the real heart-tugging point! Its catchy, touching melody line is probably why it sticks in your memory as a tune you’ve heard somewhere before.