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)
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.
Everyday, KachushaAKB48
Released in 2011 as AKB48’s 21st single.
The song features Atsuko Maeda in the center position and served as the theme song for the Toho-distributed film “What If the Manager of a High School Baseball Team Read Drucker’s ‘Management’,” among many other tie-ins.
The music video, shot entirely in Guam, is also a must-see.
The key change before the chorus feels natural and pleasant to listen to.
sense of shameshuuchishin
Released in 2008 as the debut single of Shuchishin, a three-member project unit formed by Takeshi Tsuruno, Naoki Nokubo, and Yusuke Kamiji from the Fuji TV quiz-variety show “Quiz! Hexagon II.” The lyrics were written by Shinsuke Shimada and the music composed by Ani Takahara, and the single became a major hit.
Bird’s PoemLia
At first glance it seems to repeat the same straightforward progression, but in reality this song features quite advanced key changes.
AIR began as a PC game and, thanks to its popularity, expanded into various media.
This is Tori no Uta, sung by Lia, which was used as the theme song for the anime adaptation.
It’s dance music graced by the beautiful timbre of strings, with Lia’s ethereal vocals shining throughout.
It’s one of the reasons AIR is known as a “nakige,” a tear-jerker game.
Despite modulating multiple times, the song never loses its overall sense of cohesion—that’s what’s so impressive about it.
paprikaFoorin
Released in August 2018, this song by Foorin—a unit composed of elementary and junior high school members—was composed, arranged, and produced by Kenshi Yonezu.
A version sung by Yonezu himself has also been released.
In this track as well, modulation is skillfully used to shift the musical scenes, leaving a strong impression.
The chords used throughout, the chord progressions incorporating key changes, and the melodic writing all showcase Yonezu’s outstanding sense for composition and arrangement.
