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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.

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

Snow Blossomtsuruno takeshi

Takeshi Tsuruno “Yuki no Hana” MV
Snow Blossomtsuruno takeshi

This work, a cover of Mika Nakashima’s signature song released in 2003, is a gem of a ballad that sings of warm feelings for a loved one in the season when snow dances.

The album Tsuru no Uta 3, which includes this track and was released in May 2015, garnered major attention as Takeshi Tsuruno’s first cover album in about three years.

The tender vocals envelop the lyrics—depicting wintry scenes and the delicate emotions of lovers—in a moving rendition.

Without diminishing the beauty of the original, this is a superb cover that draws out new charms from a distinctly male perspective.

Come, spring.Makihara Noriyuki

A heartwarming spring song, carefully covered by Noriyuki Makihara from a classic by Yumi Matsutoya.

It was released in October 1998 as a track on the cover album “Listen To The Music.” The tender, embracing vocals gently cradle the bittersweet longing for the arrival of spring.

Without losing the original song’s poetic beauty, it adds a unique sensibility that brings out new charm—a masterpiece.

It will quietly stay close to those who tend to feel low at the turn of the seasons or who are anxious about an impending new beginning.

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.

threadEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / Ito (EXILE ATSUSHI LIVE TOUR 2016 “IT’S SHOW TIME!!”)
threadEXILE ATSUSHI

A cover by EXILE ATSUSHI that wraps Miyuki Nakajima’s classic—likening human connections to vertical and horizontal threads—in deep affection and warmth.

From fateful encounters to lifelong bonds, his clear, luminous voice gently weaves the beauty of relationships as they unfold over time.

Released in July 2016, the song was also performed during his solo dome tour that same year, moving many listeners.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to reflect on precious time with not only a lover, but also with family and friends.

RainingFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama Soul Riku 'Raining / Cocco' (with lyrics) 2014.09.27
RainingFukuyama Masaharu

He covered it on his 2015 album “Tamashii Riku,” released as Masaharu Fukuyama’s acoustic cover album.

I feel his sweet voice brings out a fresh, different sound in this song.

That’s the appeal of a man covering a song originally by a woman.

I hope great songs, regardless of gender, continue to be passed down like this.

powder snowToshi

Toshl “Powder Snow” [Now available for early release!]
powder snowToshi

A cover of Remioromen’s eighth single “Konayuki,” included on Toshi from X Japan’s cover album “I’M A SINGER VOL.2,” released in December 2019.

The original track, released in November 2005, already lets you enjoy a strong male high register, but since this version is sung by Toshi—renowned for his high tones—the appeal of the high notes stands out even more than in the original.

When the chorus hits the title line, sing it out boldly!

Great cover versions of classic and popular songs sung by male artists (21–30)

RobinsonGosuperāzu

This song, a cover by The Gospellers of a well-known Mr.

Children classic, is a simple yet exquisitely delicate a cappella rendition with an exceptionally clear, transparent quality.

The vocals are so beautiful that instruments would only get in the way, and you can’t help but be drawn in.

It’s the kind of track that makes you want to replay it as soon as it ends, so if you haven’t heard it yet, give it a listen!