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)
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.
Catchy, familiar-sounding songs (51–60)
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Many of you have probably heard this song released by Yuzu in 2004.
Used as NHK’s theme song for the Athens Olympics, it became a major hit, reaching as high as No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
With its beautiful melody and moving lyrics, it’s an uplifting anthem that gives you the courage to push forward through difficulties.
In 2005, it also won the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.
The lyrics, which depict people who, despite experiencing setbacks and hardships, overcome them and continue walking toward their dreams, resonate with many listeners.
It’s a song we hope those who are striving will listen to as a cheer of encouragement.
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro
This song by Motohiro Hata, released in 2014, became very popular among elementary school students as it was used as the theme song for the animated film STAND BY ME Doraemon.
The title “Himawari” (Sunflower) is said to be inspired by Doraemon, and the song conveys a warmth and kindness reminiscent of the character.
It topped weekly distribution charts such as iTunes and became one of his biggest hits.
Tomorrow will surely be a good day.Takahashi Yuu
A song that feels like Yu Takahashi’s songwriting talent has exploded.
It also made waves because he directed the music video himself.
A bright melody and an uplifting, up-tempo beat.
And lyrics that, just as the title says, make you relentlessly positive.
Yu Takahashi’s warm voice gently brings it all to life.
On days when you’re feeling down, listen to this track and lift your spirits.
Tomorrow is sure to be a better day!
Dried flowersYuuri
This is the second major-label single by singer-songwriter Yuuri, who was active as a member of the rock band THE BUGZY, which disbanded in 2019.
The song portrays the story of the 2019 track “Kakurenbo” from a woman’s perspective, and its poignant lyrics, gentle vocals, and melody make for a moving number.
In March 2021, its total streaming plays surpassed 200 million, making it fair to say that it became a massive hit heard by many people.
Going round and roundKami wa saikoro o furanai
A song by the four-piece rock band Kami wa Saikoro wo Furanai, formed in Fukuoka Prefecture in 2015.
Chosen as the commercial song for TikTok, a short video platform popular especially among younger generations, it’s an addictive track that conveys a sense of openness and exhilaration befitting the campaign theme of “new encounters.” Its message—urging listeners to believe in themselves and move forward even as days pass, seasons change, and circumstances shift—also resonates strongly with the youth living in a new era.
With crisp, rhythmic guitar cutting and catchy electronic elements, it’s a refreshing, high-velocity number.
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!