[J-Pop] List of Popular and Famous Songs That Use the Canon Progression [2026]
The first half of Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel’s Canon and Gigue in D major for three violins and basso continuo—the Canon, commonly known as “Pachelbel’s Canon”—is a piece almost everyone has heard, even if they don’t recognize the title.
Did you know that the chord progression from this Canon is actually used in many J-pop hit songs? In this article, we’ll introduce not only songs that employ the straightforward Canon progression, but also works that feature various patterns with unique arrangements.
A must-read for anyone looking to study composition!
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[J-Pop] List of Popular and Famous Songs That Use the Canon Progression [2026] (61–70)
Time travelMatsuda Seiko
This work, which portrays the yearning for a lost love, is marked by an elegant, canon-based melody.
It was included on the June 1986 album “SUPREME,” with Seiko Matsuda herself composing the music.
Paired with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, it delicately weaves timeless emotions.
You can feel the protagonist’s aching heart as they recall a former lover from two far-flung places—Paris and the West Coast.
I hope you’ll relate to the way they strive to look forward even while bearing the pain of heartbreak.
Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro
This is the second single by singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama, whose lyrics, deftly woven with striking, attention-grabbing phrases, move listeners to the core.
Known as a quintessential “sakura song” in the J-pop scene, it drew further attention in 2019 when an arranged version was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Dōki no Sakura” (Mr. Hiiragi’s Homeroom).
The spin-off title of Hiiragi’s Homeroom is different; here, “同期のサクラ” = “Sakura at Work.”
In the latter half, the chorus features a canon progression that skillfully incorporates substitute chords, creating a nostalgic resonance that beautifully meshes with the melody.
It’s a simple yet profound ballad that evokes the sanctity of a day of departure and the subtle shifts of the heart.
Love BombB’z
This is the 38th single by the rock duo B’z, who have been recognized by Guinness World Records as the best-selling album artist in Japan and have broken numerous records in the J-POP scene.
The track was used as the ending theme for the music program “JAPAN COUNTDOWN” and was created under the concept of being a song that regular bands can easily cover.
Its arrangement employs a canon progression with substitute chords chosen to match the mood of the melody, functioning—as mentioned above—as a classic, educational chord progression for any band.
It’s a simple yet distinctly B’z-style, high-energy, exhilarating rock tune with a sense of openness that’s sure to lift your spirits.
OCEANB’z
A ballad that sings of grand love and unwavering resolve, this B’z song captivated many listeners.
Released in August 2005 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Umizaru EVOLUTION,” which portrays Japan Coast Guard rescue divers, it struck a chord with audiences.
Koshi Inaba’s deeply expressive vocals and Tak Matsumoto’s delicate guitar work blend beautifully, resonating profoundly with listeners.
The track is also included on the album “MONSTER,” and in live performances it creates a moving, unified atmosphere with the audience.
It’s a song that stays close to your heart when you want to believe in a future you’ll walk together with someone you cherish.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
This is the fifth single by female singer Yo Hitoto, who has had numerous tie-ins, including theme songs for the TV drama Tuesday Suspense Theater.
It’s a ballad whose message—carrying humanity’s universal prayer for anti-war sentiment and peace—pierces the heart.
The canon progression used in the A section is arranged with various techniques, preserving its distinctive resonance while elevating it into a more dramatic and compelling ensemble.
With its grand theme and harmonically rich chord progression in perfect harmony, it’s no wonder this masterpiece has been loved by listeners across generations for so long.
I want to be friends.Gakuen Seikatsu-bu
A song by the School Living Club, a club that appears in the TV anime School-Live!.
It was used as the ending theme in episode 12 of the anime.
Despite its cute tone, the lyrics evoke death, creating a striking contrast.
While it does employ seventh chords and substitutions, the canon progression heard in the chorus likely contributes to the song’s overall accessibility.
Even within its unique world, it’s a track that sticks in your ears, reaffirming the impact of classic chord progressions.
Broken RadioTokunaga Hideaki
“Kowarekake no Radio” is a classic by Hideaki Tokunaga that makes full use of the poignant mood of the canon progression.
In the chorus, the progression used in the key of E major is E→B→C#m→E→A→E→A→Bsus4, and the key point is that the tonic E appears in the fourth position.
This canon progression also shows up frequently in pop music, and if you’re studying composition, knowing this progression will help you give a fresh twist to the standard canon progression.
Be sure to keep it in mind!
