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A wonderful classic

Great covers of classic and popular songs sung by male artists

What songs come to mind when you hear the word “cover”? Popular hits, timeless classics that are often sung, standout tracks by artists who focus on covers… Through changing times, countless masterpieces have been passed down in song.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected profoundly moving cover songs performed by male artists.

You might discover something fresh even in your usual favorites.

Each one is a wonderful cover—be sure to give them a listen.

Top 10 iconic and popular songs masterfully covered by male artists (1–10)

I LOVE YOUkurisu haato

It’s a slightly bittersweet song with the theme of heartbreak.

It employs various expressions—such as high notes and a sweet, aching melody—and you can really feel how exceptional his expressive power is.

His Japanese pronunciation is very clear and easy to listen to, making it highly relatable.

This song draws on a wide range of expressive techniques, and it’s one I definitely recommend you listen to.

A Gift Without a StampWANIMA

WANIMA covered this classic song, themed around the feelings embedded in everyday words like “thank you” and “good job,” with their own distinctive sound.

Originally a warm message song crafted by Kazuo Zaitsu in 1977, WANIMA reimagined it with ska and doo-wop elements, giving it a lively, rhythmic feel.

Included on their single “JUICE UP!!” released in August 2016, the track also gained attention as the song for Recruit’s Car Sensor commercial.

It was performed at their 2017 solo concert at Saitama Super Arena and has since become a key song that fosters a strong sense of unity with the audience.

OH MY LITTLE GIRLYuuri

Yuuri “OH MY LITTLE GIRL (cover)”
OH MY LITTLE GIRLYuuri

This work is a cover by Yuuri, performed with deep respect, of a classic song from Yutaka Ozaki’s 1983 album “Seventeen’s Map.” While cherishing the original’s pure affection and poignant longing, Yuuri’s uniquely warm voice brings out new charm.

The arrangement, centered on simple piano and strings, beautifully highlights Yuuri’s expressive vocals.

It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to revisit a timeless classic or feel Yuuri’s musical roots.

Great Cover Versions of Classic and Popular Songs Sung by Male Artists (11–20)

RainHata Motohiro

【Short MV】 Rain – Motohiro Hata
RainHata Motohiro

The gently paced, soft and warm ballad “Rain” by singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata.

It’s a very charming song with human touch lyrics that quietly stay close to everyday life, and the low key of a male vocal suits it exceptionally well.

It’s wonderful when covered as a solo guitar-and-vocal performance!

Fall in LoveTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Falling in Love -Fall in Love-
Fall in LoveTokunaga Hideaki

This is a cover in which Hideaki Tokunaga sings, from a male perspective, a song that has come to be loved by many as a quintessential romance song from a woman’s point of view.

Released in July 2007, it drew attention as the lead single from the album “VOCALIST 3.” The original, sung by Akiko Kobayashi, was a smash hit in 1985 as the theme song for the TBS drama “Friday Wives III: Falling in Love.” Tokunaga’s rich, resonant voice offers a new angle on the bittersweetness and joy of the moment you fall in love.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to savor the flutter of a new romance or reminisce about days gone by.

White LoversShimizu Shota

Shota Shimizu covers Keisuke Kuwata’s classic, a bittersweet love song set against a winter snow scene, with his own unique interpretation.

While honoring the emotion of the original, he blends his soulful vocals with R&B elements to create a more polished, contemporary sound.

MANABOON’s arrangement is also outstanding, vividly evoking the stillness of winter and the imagery of snow.

It’s a perfect song for anyone who wants to feel the preciousness of time spent with a loved one in the cold season, and the warmth of a love that stays connected even when you’re apart.

Sign of Lovesupittsu

The original song is the sixth single released by PUFFY in 1998.

People tend to associate PUFFY with Tamio Okuda, but this track was actually written by Masamune Kusano, the vocalist of Spitz.

The rock-leaning guitar, bass, and drums blend with the gentle vocals to create a pleasantly listenable sound, don’t they?