[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] (21–30)
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
This is the second single by Official HIGE DANDism, a four-piece piano pop band, which was used as the theme song for the film “The Confidence Man JP: The Movie.” Hailed as a song that will go down in J-pop history, it introduced the band to a wide range of listeners.
The chorus is based on a canon progression, and the A section is structured similarly, which may be why it evokes a sense of nostalgia for many listeners.
Featured as a choral piece in the 2023 music textbook, it is one of Official HIGE DANDism’s signature songs that will continue to be celebrated as a classic.
rainbowSuda Masaki
This is the fifth single by singer Masaki Suda, who has won numerous awards for his acting career and consistently released buzzworthy works in his music as well.
The song was chosen as the theme for the 3DCG animated film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2, and its lyrics—which evoke the bond with someone precious—resonate with the film’s narrative.
From the Canon progression that underpins the first half of the chorus to the dramatic development in the latter half, the song structure conveys a sense of grandeur that blends the classic with the modern.
It’s a number that reaffirms the affinity between ballads and the Canon progression, so pay attention to the resonance of the chords as you listen.
Marigoldaimyon
This is the fifth major-label single by Aimyon, a female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for lyrics that express universally relatable themes with distinctive phrases, set to nostalgic melodies carried by the sound of acoustic guitar.
It became such a hit that it surpassed 300 million streams, making Aimyon’s name widely known among listeners of all ages.
While it does feature substitute chords and slash chords—using major rather than minor—its A verse and chorus are largely based on the Canon progression, which gives the song a soothing resonance.
Even within today’s J-pop scene, it’s a work that conveys the timeless depth of the Canon progression.
cherrysupittsu
This is the 13th single by Spitz, a four-piece rock band whose name was chosen because it’s “short and cute, yet sounds punk.” Despite having no tie-in, the song became a million-seller and, alongside tracks like “Robinson,” is known as one of Spitz’s signature numbers.
The melody over the canon progression in the A section is dramatic, flowing naturally into a catchy chorus for a satisfying song structure.
The nostalgic color of the canon progression gives the entire track a subtle sense of weightlessness—a quintessential ’90s pop tune.
Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro
A smash hit by Tatsuro Yamashita that has become a beloved winter staple.
Since its release in November 1983, it has continued to resonate with many people.
It’s also famous for being featured in JR Tokai’s “Christmas Express” commercials, and remains a long-selling classic that boosts its sales every Christmas season.
Though the lyrics poignantly depict heartbreak, the warm, crystal-clear sound makes it a perfect soundtrack for spending Christmas with someone special.
contrailMatsutōya Yumi
Hikōki Gumo, released as Yumi Matsutoya’s (then Yumi Arai’s) debut, is a song that symbolically portrays passion for dreams and the transience of life.
Its world, woven from a transparent singing voice and delicate lyrics, captivates listeners and doesn’t let go.
It’s also well known as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film The Wind Rises.
Like a fleeting trail drawn in the sky, the piece evokes the beauty and ephemerality of life.
A moving classic you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.
Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children
A four-piece rock band, Mr.Children captivates fans with lyrics woven from inventive phrases—from catchy themes to messages that probe the depths of the human heart—in their 35th single.
Chosen as the theme song for both the TV drama and film Nobunaga Concerto, the track’s expansive, string-featured rock sound vividly evokes the scenes in the lyrics.
The canon progression used in the intro, verse, and chorus creates a unique atmosphere by incorporating substitute chords and sus4 voicings.
It’s an emotional number whose melody blends a floating lightness with melancholy—one you’ll want to replay again and again.