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: 10 classic J-POP and Japanese tracks where the mood and impression shift naturally (41–50)
Silent majorityKeyakizaka46
It’s the debut single of Keyakizaka46, released in April 2016.
In the chorus, the song modulates from the key of G# minor to F minor, a “+#3 modulation.” While the key change itself feels natural, the B-melody phrase right before the chorus is deliberately crafted not to connect smoothly to the chorus.
This heightens the impact of the chorus and gives listeners the illusion that the song briefly moved to a different key just before it.
The use of such sophisticated arranging techniques may well be a hallmark of modern idol songs.
I think it’s a track with a very intriguing chord arrangement.
Songs with Key Changes That Feel Great: Classic J-POP and Japanese Hits That Naturally Shift and Change Impression (51–60)
AnarchyOfisharu Higedan Dism
This is Official HIGE DANDism’s sixth digital download single, released on January 7, 2022.
It was written as the theme song for the Toho film The Confidence Man JP: Episode of the Hero.
The key changes in this track feel less like they’re meant to jolt the listener and more like a way to connect memorable phrases more smoothly.
Thanks to that, the entire song gives the impression that every vocal section sounds like a chorus.
Not just with this song, but many Official HIGE DANDism tracks are brimming with that so-called “stylish” vibe—this one is a prime example of them at their best.
Magic MusicKimura Kaera
Kaela Kimura is a female singer-songwriter who still enjoys strong support from certain segments of listeners.
She has many great songs, but the one I especially recommend is “Magic Music.” This track, characteristic of her early career, leans heavily into rock, maintaining a high voltage while staying irresistibly cute throughout.
The chorus features a key change—not at the beginning, but partway through.
It’s rare for the key to rise midway through the chorus as it does here, so be sure to give it a listen and hear it for yourself.
FLASHPerfume
Perfume’s digitally released single from March 2016.
The key change in this song follows a pattern where it modulates in parallel at the start of the chorus, moving from D-flat major to B-flat minor.
As far as I know, there aren’t many songs that switch to a minor key in the chorus, but in this track, the use of a bright melody in the pre-chorus (B-melody) makes the transition to a minor key in the chorus stand out even more through its composition and arrangement.
It’s a technique that emphasizes the bittersweet feel of the chorus.
Everyday lifeOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song by Official HIGE DANDism that carefully scoops up the melancholy hidden in everyday life and the sudden moments of salvation.
Rather than dazzling with flashy developments, its steady, unhurried structure at a consistent rhythm conveys the realism of days that repeat.
Within the gentle tone of the track, the sound design shifts delicately in step with subtle emotional changes, quietly staying close to the listener’s heart.
Released as a single in September 2023, it was also chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “news zero.” This work depicts those moments when we’re saved by casual kindness.
Why not give it a listen on sleepless nights burdened by worries about tomorrow, or when you want to loosen a taut string and take a deep breath?
rainbowAqua Timez
Aqua Timez is a rock band that gained popularity with its straightforward lyrics and melodies.
Although the band disbanded in 2018, they reunited for one year starting in 2024, which created a lot of buzz.
Among Aqua Timez’s songs, one piece particularly notable for its key change is Niji (“Rainbow”).
It was a nationwide hit, so many of you have probably heard it.
In this track, the final chorus features a classic modulation that raises the key by a whole step.
Combined with the lyrics and overall tone, the key change creates a distinctly hopeful atmosphere.
TemptationGLAY
Released in 1998 as GLAY’s 13th single, this song was used in the “TDK MiniDisc XA Series” campaign, achieved million-seller status, and ranked No.
1 on Oricon’s annual singles chart for 1998.
It is also one of GLAY’s signature songs, frequently performed live.