[J-Pop] List of Popular and Famous Songs That Use the Canon Progression [2026]

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.
Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

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!

[J-Pop] List of Popular and Famous Songs That Use the Canon Progression [2026] (91–100)

Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi

Rimi Natsukawa “Nada Sousou” Music Video

Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi

A gemlike, heart-touching ballad by Rimi Natsukawa whose title, in the Okinawan dialect, means “tears falling in plops.” Its lyrics—crafted by Ryoko Moriyama and filled with feelings for her late brother—and its gentle, tender melody line—woven by BEGIN while incorporating Okinawan musical elements—are especially distinctive.

Since its release in March 2001, it has become a blockbuster, selling over 1.2 million copies in total, and achieved the remarkable feat of spending 157 weeks on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It is a timeless classic that continues to be loved, offering comfort to those who have experienced parting from someone dear or who carry deep emotions in their hearts.

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In conclusion

Even among songs that use the canon progression, the vibe can vary a lot! Some of you may have been surprised by the diverse lineup. We’ll keep updating this playlist whenever new works featuring the canon progression are released, so be sure to check back in the future!