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 satisfying key changes: classic J-pop and Japanese hits where the mood and impression shift naturally (81–90)
Refrain of SoulsTakahashi Yoko
It was released in 1997 as Yoko Takahashi’s 14th single.
The song was used as the theme for the animated film Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth, and was produced around the theme of “reincarnation.” “L’Arc~en~Ciel” is the French reading of “refrain,” and it remains a popular anime song today.
Even if I grow tired of swimming in this loveZARD
It was released in 1994 as ZARD’s 11th single.
The song was used as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “Ai to Giwaku no Suspense” (Love and Suspicion Suspense) and was released as ZARD’s first double A-side single.
After the first chorus, the tempo suddenly accelerates and the key rises by a semitone, making it a distinctive track.
GarnetOku Hanako
It was released in 2006 as Hanako Oku’s fourth single.
The song was used as the theme for the animated film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and achieved long-running sales along with the film’s extended theatrical run.
The gemstone meaning of garnet is “friendship” and “affection,” which aligns with the film’s theme.
At the mercy of the seaYOASOBI
YOASOBI create songs inspired by stories.
One they crafted based on Mizuki Tsujimura’s novel “Yūrei” is “Umi no Manimani.” Its lyrics depict a protagonist who visits a harbor at night and encounters a mysterious, ghost-like girl.
The song draws listeners in with delicate psychological portrayals, and it features a key change at the B-melody, where the story begins to move.
The shift from a slow, ballad-like first half to a rapid, rap-like delivery heightens the drama—it’s a must-hear.
AWAYOKUBA – SlashUVERworld
This is UVERworld’s 20th single, released on March 28, 2012.
Over a heavy band sound, instruments like saxophone and strings are used abundantly and effectively, resulting in a very dramatic arrangement.
A key change in the chorus is used to great effect in enhancing that dramatic feel.
Because the modulation in the chorus is executed so smoothly, many listeners might not notice it at first listen.
If you’re interested, try studying the chord progressions used in the song.
SeventeenYOASOBI
Seventeen has also drawn attention as a collaboration between YOASOBI and Miyuki Miyabe.
It’s based on The Mismatched Cards, a suspense novel featuring a 17-year-old girl as the protagonist.
The song channels that dense story through a driving, fast-paced sound.
A key change is used in the scene where the protagonist gets caught up in the incident, perhaps symbolizing her stepping into a chaotic world.
There’s also another key change just before the final chorus.
Songs with satisfying key changes: Classic J-POP and Japanese tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally (91–100)
Bird’s PoemLia
It was a hot topic online at the time, and it might be familiar to fans of 2000s games and anime.
It’s a song by the singer Lia, known for her beautiful vocals, and it was used as the theme for the romance game AIR, released in 2000.
It’s an electronic tune where a cool, grand sound intertwines with a nostalgic melodic line.
It has a quality that feels like it stirs something deep inside.
In the latter half, it modulates repeatedly, driving the momentum forward.
