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A catchy tune that sounds familiar

A catchy tune that sounds familiar
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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.

Catchy, familiar tunes you’ve heard somewhere (1–10)

Strong Wind Slicked-Back (feat. Kaai Yuki)yukopi

Yukopi – Strong Wind Slicked-back Hair (feat. Kaai Yuki)
Strong Wind Slicked-Back (feat. Kaai Yuki)yukopi

This insanely catchy, instantly memorable song—haven’t you heard it somewhere before? It’s a track by the Vocaloid producer Yukopi, and a parody version was used in Nissin Cup Noodles’ commercial “Summer? Gotta Eat Seafood.” The song has also been drawing a lot of attention on social media, and many of you have probably seen dance videos that recreate its BGM.

It’s the kind of tune that makes you want to hum along and start dancing without even thinking.

mabatakiVaundy

mabataki / Vaundy:MUSIC VIDEO
mabatakiVaundy

This song, which opens with Vaundy’s whisper-like vocals, might be familiar to J-POP fans from YouTube recommendations or playlists on iTunes and Spotify.

It was also featured in several commercials—such as Suntory BOSS Caffeine’s “Awake? Meeting” spot and NTT Docomo’s youth support film “#Seishun Time Trip”—so even those who don’t actively listen to music may recognize it.

The lyrics, which earnestly wish for peace and a world where everyone can live happily, are sure to move you, so be sure to listen while reading along with the words.

Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Tokyo VICTORY [Official Music Video] Short ver.
Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu

A pop tune overflowing with the charm of Southern All Stars.

From Kuwata’s shout in the intro, it leaves a strong impression—the sparkling sound and the soft, catchy chorus make your heart skip a beat! It might not be one of their most famous singles, but since it was used in a Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation commercial and as the theme song for the 2014 and 2018 Asian Games & World Volleyball, I think many people will go, “I’ve heard this song!” It’s a track that embraces not only Tokyo, but each person’s own hometown.

sixth senseREOL

Reol – “Sixth Sense / THE SIXTH SENSE” Music Video
sixth senseREOL

If you’re a fan of utaite singers, you might know her from when she was active under the name “gereo” (Reol).

This song is an original track by her—now performing as Reol—written specifically for a Boat Race commercial.

Many of you have probably heard it while watching TV.

Alongside her solid, powerful vocals, it also takes a dance music approach, making it the kind of song that becomes addictive after just one listen.

ETANewJeans

NewJeans (뉴진스) ‘ETA’ Official MV
ETANewJeans

Released in 2023 by the Korean girl group NewJeans, this track is crafted as an uptempo dance number.

Many people likely first heard it in an iPhone commercial, and the ad drew a lot of attention as soon as it began airing.

It also became a major talking point that the music video was shot on an iPhone 14 Pro.

It’s a song that even those who don’t usually listen to K-pop will probably recognize.

I know U KnowAimer

Aimer | I Know U Know (sub. Español & Romaji)
I know U KnowAimer

Singer-songwriter Aimer has been turning out hit after hit, and before we knew it, she became a diva of the Reiwa era! Her song “I Know U Know” carries a refreshingly breezy vibe.

It was featured in Suntory Tokyo Craft’s commercial “Then I’ll head back to Tokyo by Tokyo Craft,” which drew attention for its anime-style, sentimental story.

Many listeners resonated with the lyrics about taking the first steps toward one’s dreams.

Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru

Takahara Pistol / Hey, You Young Folks (Short Ver.)
Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru

This song, which could be called singer-songwriter Pistal Takehara’s signature track, was often played on TV as the Sumitomo Life commercial song featuring Eita, wasn’t it? The lyrics, written in a tone that feels like he’s speaking directly to young people, must have given courage to many listeners.

Takehara’s passionate vocals resonate in your heart no matter how many times you listen, don’t they? I’m sure you all know this song, but he has many other fiery tracks that really hit home, so please give them a listen.