Songs with satisfying key changes: classic J-POP and Japanese tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally
There’s a technique called “modulation” that’s used when you want to dramatically change a song’s scene or mood partway through.
If we were to explain modulation in depth, it would be enough to fill an entire music theory book, so I’ll skip the details here.
The most common pattern is raising the key for the final chorus to heighten the excitement.
There are also songs that, for example, modulate only in the pre-chorus to catch the listener off guard, as well as songs that skillfully modulate repeatedly while still sounding natural, using subtle modulation techniques.
This time, I’ve picked out a few songs where the modulations feel particularly pleasing or are especially well crafted.
If this article sparks your interest in modulation, please explore further by searching online.
Understanding how songs are put together will surely open up a whole new way to enjoy music!
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Songs with key changes that feel great: classic J‑POP and Japanese hits where the mood and impression shift naturally (71–80)
QUINCYBoA
Released in 2004 as BoA’s 14th single.
The song was used in a commercial for KOSÉ’s “Fasio,” and it is said that the title was taken from Quincy Jones, whom BoA respects.
With this song, she won the Gold Award at the 46th Japan Record Awards.
Dear My FriendEvery Little Thing
It was released in 1997 as Every Little Thing’s third single.
The song was used in a Slim Beauty House commercial featuring Naoko Iijima, and thanks to its success, it won the Excellence Award at the 39th Japan Record Awards.
With its upbeat sound and satisfying key changes, it’s also a popular number at live shows.
Dream BeatWienners
“Modulation” is a musical term, but what comes through in this song’s key changes is something very intuitive: a sense of “being ourselves” and the momentum born from a positive mindset.
It’s a track by the rock band Wienners, released as a single in 2013.
The way the sound bursts open right from the start feels incredible! And as it moves forward with rapid modulations, every note delivers the song’s message directly.
If you listen when you’re tired or feeling down, it’ll make you think, “I can give it my all again tomorrow.”
Songs with satisfying key changes: classic J-pop and Japanese hits where the mood and impression shift naturally (81–90)
smileikimonogakari
Ikimono-gakari’s 26th single, released in July 2013.
It’s a bright, quintessentially “smile”-filled song that feels very true to them, and listening to it puts you in a really joyful mood.
What further emphasizes that brightness is the key change at around 2:30 in the video, leading into the final chorus.
This is a great example of using modulation to shift the scene.
A key-raising modulation in the last chorus is a fairly common technique, but this track really lets you feel its effect.
When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika
It was released in 2005 as Mika Nakashima’s 14th single.
Issued as a non-tie-in single, it is a ballad that depicts seasonal scenery and the changing emotional landscapes of lovers.
It also marked her first song themed around cherry blossoms.
main streetShiina Ringo & Tōtasu Matsumoto
A collaboration between Ringo Sheena and Toru “Tortoise” Matsumoto of Ulfuls, released in April 2017.
Midway through the final chorus, it modulates from E-flat major to B-flat major, creating a grand uplift for the climax.
Beyond this section, the arrangement is highly intricate, with numerous moments designed to boost excitement, yet the fact that the key change is saved until the very end is a delightfully crafty touch.
True to the title, incorporating a key change within a lavish arrangement that evokes the main street of Las Vegas enhances the overall sense of “gorgeousness.”
EverythingMISIA
One of MISIA’s signature songs, released in 2000 and often cited as a classic ballad that became a major hit.
Many people find themselves longing for this song not only when they’re in love, but especially as winter sets in.
Its smooth, easy-to-hum melody is particularly memorable.
At the end of the instrumental break leading into the climax, it modulates up a half step from D♭ to D.
This common pattern heightens the build-up into the final chorus.
Combined with MISIA’s vocal prowess, it gives an even greater sense of scale.
