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 tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally (1–10)
Nandemonaiya (Movie Version)RADWIMPS
This is a ballad by RADWIMPS included on the album “Your Name.” and used as the ending theme song for the film Your Name., released in August 2016.
It begins with a quiet piano tone, and as strings and a full band sound layer in toward the latter half, the structure becomes dramatically expansive, as if the view suddenly opens up.
Rather than a clear key change, the piece employs deft techniques that may give some listeners the sensation of slipping into an entirely different timeline.
The heartfelt message about “time” and “memory” embedded in the lyrics tightens the chest when paired with Yojiro Noda’s vocals.
It’s the kind of song that will resonate if you listen to it in a quiet everyday moment when you want to reaffirm the presence of someone important to you.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE is one of the bands currently enjoying the strongest support from the general public in Japan.
They have many hit songs, but the one I especially recommend is Lilac.
It’s a famous classic by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE that everyone knows.
In this track, there are notable transitions: from the A verse to the B verse, from the B verse to the chorus, and then a major key change in the final chorus.
The shift from the A verse to the B verse in particular dramatically changes the song’s feel, making it exceptionally compelling to listen to.
HANABIMr.Children
It’s Mr.Children’s 33rd single, released in September 2008.
The modulation pattern in this song is what you could call the classic of classics: a shift to the key a semitone higher—the one with a single sharp or five flats.
In this case, the song modulates from C-sharp major to D major.
The strength of this modulation is that by repeating the same melodic figure a semitone higher, it achieves impact, clarity, and catchiness all at once.
You could dismiss it as a standard, commonly used technique, but precisely because it’s a well-worn pattern, the sense of when and how to use it is what’s tested.
The fact that Mr.Children pulls it off so stylishly and effortlessly is where you really feel their greatness.
Songs with satisfying key changes: classic J-POP and Japanese tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally (11–20)
mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism’s “Mixed Nuts,” which is popular as the theme song for the anime SPY×FAMILY, is also a track where key changes shine.
The song starts its verse (A section) in G-flat, then modulates to A for the pre-chorus (B section).
To make things even trickier, the latter half of the B section modulates to D.
Then, in the chorus, it modulates back to G-flat, the same key as the A section.
Beyond this song, tracks like “Cry Baby” also feature rapid-fire key changes, giving their music a strangely captivating feel when you listen.
idolYOASOBI
This is YOASOBI’s 19th digital single, released in June 2023.
It was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko.” The song surprises listeners with its powerful sound and use of key changes.
Its electro sound, which fuses hip-hop and gospel, combines with ikura’s vocals to deliver a breathtaking progression.
The addictive chorus and lightly rap-influenced sections feel great and energize the entire track.
While the melody line is complex, that very complexity draws listeners in.
With each listen, you’ll discover something new—please enjoy that sense of discovery.
I hope you’ll also have fun trying it on the piano.
Through this song, I’d be glad if you develop an interest in the technique of modulation and feel the depth of music.
Blue BenchSasuke
This was Sasuke’s debut single, released in April 2004.
The key change happens around 3:25—it’s the typical pattern where the final chorus modulates up by a half step.
It’s an effective technique to heighten the last chorus.
Because the modulation happens suddenly, it also works well as a method to express a scene change.
If you sing it at karaoke, please be mindful of your own vocal range.
As a personSUPER BEAVER
SUPER BEAVER is a rock band that has been active since the 2000s.
They’re known for their orthodox rock sound and a consistent musical style throughout their career.
Among their songs, a standout I’d especially recommend for its satisfying key change is “Hito toshite.” The structure is very simple, featuring a modulation that raises the key by one step in the final chorus.
With its extremely catchy melody and orthodox modulation pattern, it’s a great pick for listeners who want a straightforward, unadorned track.