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 tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally (91–100)
Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki
This is the 37th single by singer-songwriter Miyuki Nakajima, released in July 2000.
It became a major hit after being chosen as the opening theme for the NHK General TV documentary series “Project X: Challengers.” Since it was the opening theme of an extremely popular show at the time, many of you have probably heard it.
In terms of modulation, the song uses the common technique of raising the key by a half step right before the final chorus.
Although it’s a frequently used approach, it’s highly effective in creating a dramatic effect.
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.”
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.
SWEET PAINglobe
globe was a music unit that thrived in the late 1990s.
While they produced many hit numbers, there are also hidden gems among their work.
One of them is SWEET PAIN.
Unusual for its time, this track features a structure similar to EDM, modulating from the A verse to the B verse, and again from the B verse into the chorus.
The chorus uses the same chord progression as the intro, so rather than a whirlwind of developments, the modulations lead to a clearly defined landing point.
It’s incredibly natural on the ears, so if you haven’t heard it yet, this is a must-listen!
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.
You’re My Only Shinin’ StarKadamatsu Toshiki
This song was originally written by Toshiki Kadomatsu for Miho Nakayama in 1988, but what I’m introducing here is Kadomatsu’s own self-cover version.
It’s included on his 2007 ballad best album, “Players Presents TOSHIKI KADOMATSU Ballad Collection.” The track has been crafted into a ballad that lets you enjoy richly layered choral work.
In terms of modulation, the arrangement raises the key after the instrumental break.
The way the scene shifts there is natural and exquisite, so be sure to listen with that in mind.
Let It Go ~As I Am~Matsu Takako
As you all know, this is the Japanese version of the theme song from Disney’s Frozen.
The flow is so smooth that many people may not notice how often it modulates, but it actually shifts keys quite a bit: the verse starts in F minor, the pre-chorus is in E-flat major, and the chorus moves to A-flat major.
These frequent, subtle modulations are supported by very skillful chord arrangements.
The fact that the key changes are between relatively close keys may also be why they feel so natural.
It’s a fascinating song where you can really appreciate the charm of modulation.