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Songs with titles that start with “Na.” A hint for shiritori!

Do any songs come to mind that start with “na”? There are lots of words that begin with “na” and seem likely to be used in song titles—like “natsu” (summer), “nagisa” (beach), and “namae” (name).

In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of songs with titles that start with “na.” Feel free to use this as a reference for shiritori using only song titles, or for karaoke shiritori where you pick the next song based on the last letter of the previous title.

Let’s dive right in!

Songs with titles starting with 'Na'. A hint for shiritori! (421–430)

Summer Memoriesshouka

Summer Memories Natsunoomoide / Opening lyrics ♪ When summer comes, I remember / With easy-to-read lyrics [Japanese song Japanese traditional song]
Summer Memoriesshouka

Released shortly after the war, “Summer Memories” is a heartwarming school song that depicts the natural beauty of Oze.

It sings of scenes fondly recalled with the arrival of summer—flowers like skunk cabbage and rhododendron, and landscapes wrapped in mist.

The poetry by Shoko Ema and the music by Yoshinao Nakata match beautifully, stirring a deep sense of nostalgia in listeners.

For many years, this song has been sung in schools and at local events, beloved across generations.

How about softly humming it by the window on a quiet afternoon? It will surely bring back cherished memories of summers past.

Summer has comeshouka

Summer Has Come — Song Ayano Nonomura / pf Masakazu Inui
Summer has comeshouka

“Natsu wa Kinu” is a traditional Japanese song that beautifully depicts early summer landscapes.

Its lyrics are sprinkled with seasonal symbols like deutzia blossoms, cuckoos, and early-summer rains, making it a classic that lets you feel the arrival of summer just by listening.

Since its release in 1896, it has been loved by many for over a century.

It has even been featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” and is cherished as a tune people of all ages can hum along to.

Singing it together with older adults may bring back fond memories of summers past.

It’s also a perfect song for those moments when you want to ease the summer heat just a little.

It falls like a diseased leaf in summer.enbataishi

Garden Edge Stone – Summer’s Sick Leaves, Falling. ft. Hatsune Miku, Nurse Robo_Type T
It falls like a diseased leaf in summer.enbataishi

A summer song by Sona Handaishi, released on August 5, 2023.

Set to an electronic sound, it vividly depicts the fading scenes of summer with themes of transience and sentiment at summer’s end.

The lyrics, which unfold like a soliloquy starting from a gray, sunken state of mind, leave a strong impression.

Touching its deep emotions and poetic elements naturally tightens the heart.

A related short story has been posted on Sona Handaishi’s Note as “supplementary material,” so be sure to check that out as well.

Goodbye, TearsSakamoto Kyu

Goodbye, Tears — Kyu Sakamoto
Goodbye, TearsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto’s classic is known for its bright melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Released in May 1965, it was later used as the theme song for the drama “Reaching for the Heavens.” The song portrays a young man’s feelings as he overcomes the sorrow of parting and finds hope in a new love.

It’s a tune that many older listeners will also find familiar.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and perfect for enjoying at karaoke.

It’s a song that brings back fond memories while uplifting your spirits.

Singing it together is sure to give everyone energy.

Summer-colored DiaryHori Chiemi

This song, often considered one of Chiemi Hori’s signature tracks, offers a refreshing portrayal of youthful first love.

Released in June 1983, it became a hit, reaching No.

6 on the Oricon chart.

It also ranked on TBS’s “The Best Ten” and Nippon TV’s “The Top Ten,” resonating with many listeners.

The song features a bright, sparkling melody and lyrics that evoke the brilliance of early summer, overlaying the feelings of being in love with the pages of a diary.

Symbols like the sea, the sun, and freedom appear frequently, conveying both the bittersweetness and the joy of youth.

It’s a perfect track for summer memories or as a companion on a drive.

Tragic Love on the Nagara RiverŌshiro Banesa

Vanessa Oshiro “Tragic Love on the Nagara River”
Tragic Love on the Nagara RiverŌshiro Banesa

Vanesa Oshiro is an enka singer with a unique background: she hails from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

A second-generation Japanese Argentine, she won the NHK Nodo Jiman Argentina contest held in October 2001 and made her debut two years later.

She speaks excellent Japanese, and the fact that a singer from overseas was performing authentic enka generated a lot of buzz at the time.

Her greatest appeal is her expressiveness—she captivates with a deep emotional delivery reminiscent of Argentine tango.

If you like enka singers with a touch of melancholy, be sure to check her out.

Sake of TearsŌki Nobuo

It continues to resonate with many people as a masterpiece that portrays a man trying to drown his heartbreak in alcohol.

The 7-5 rhythm of the lyrics pairs exquisitely with the wistful melody, creating an emotionally rich world that could be called the essence of enka.

Since its release in 1964, it has been covered by singers across generations, attesting to the song’s timeless appeal.

When singing it at karaoke, focusing on delicately expressing the barroom scenes and the protagonist’s emotions will give your performance greater depth.

It’s a song I recommend not only to those who have experienced heartbreak, but also to anyone who wants to savor life’s bittersweet melancholy.