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)
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.
Catchy, familiar-sounding songs (51–60)
force majeureVaundy
This song, with its stylish hip-hop track and languid rap, was featured in a Spotify commercial.
If you listen to the radio often or regularly check the viral charts on Spotify or Apple Music, you’ve probably heard it.
I’ve heard that Vaundy analyzes trending songs quite a bit when producing, and this track was created that way too.
The blend of sleek hip-hop with a moderately catchy vocal part feels great—an upbeat, feel-good tune you can really get into.
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.
KanadeSukima Suichi
One song widely known as a graduation anthem is Kanade.
Released by Sukima Switch in 2004, it’s one of their signature tracks.
You’ve probably heard it somewhere—that’s no surprise! It’s often played during graduation season, and it’s also been used as an insert song in the film Rough, the ending theme for Nettō Kōshien, and in various commercials.
It was even performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, so chances are you’ve heard it at some point.
Its bittersweet, moving melody makes you lean in and listen almost without realizing it.
Haneuma RiderPorunogurafiti
It was used as a commercial song for Pocari Sweat.
At live shows, the crowd always gets hyped by swinging towels, imitating the cowgirl from the cover photo.
It’s also interesting that all three tracks on this single are titled “◯◯ Rider.”