[Night Songs] Classic masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP you’ll want to listen to at nighttime.
The unique atmosphere of nighttime—something you don’t get in the morning or afternoon—somehow evokes a touch of wistfulness and loneliness, doesn’t it?
In this article, we’ll introduce classic and popular songs themed around “night,” perfect for those hours.
We’ve gathered tracks ideal for quiet nights, such as “songs you want to listen to alone at night” and “songs that evoke beautiful nighttime scenery.”
If you’re looking for music that matches night views for an evening walk, drive, or run, be sure to check these out.
From ballads that suit a relaxed night to dance tunes that make you want to move, we’ve got you covered—there’s sure to be a track you’ll want to play.
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[Night Songs] Masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP to listen to at nighttime (1–10)
tropical nightSugawara Kei
Singer-songwriter Kei Sugawara, who drew attention through her social media-centered activities.
Her 2023 release “Nettaiya” (Tropical Night) is an energetic track that depicts thoughts whirling around in one’s head.
Set to a jazzy band performance highlighted by the bright tones of a brass section, it delivers a message that questions one’s own identity.
It’s a fast-paced number that blows away the haze of frustration on difficult days.
Give it a listen as a companion for those nights filled with doubt and anxiety.
Dinner Songtuki.
A perfect song to listen to on nights when your feelings for a loved one overflow is “Bansanka.” Created in 2023 by singer-songwriter tuki., who gained attention through self-accompanied performance videos posted on YouTube and TikTok, it features a gentle sound that highlights the warm tones of an acoustic guitar.
The song portrays a love that, precisely because you care so deeply, ends up missing the mark—and it sings of the many nights you’ve made it through.
Try listening while thinking of a partner you want to be with forever, or someone dear to you.
VenusTele
Venus, released in 2023 by Tele—the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, who handles all lyrics, composition, and arrangement—depicts a night spent with a loved one.
The lyrics vividly conjure up the real dating scenes of young people and leave a strong impression.
His emotional vocals, singing of a bittersweet, fervent love, also convey a sweet-and-sour feeling.
It’s a rock number that speaks to the stars shining in the night, carried by warm tones over a driving, fast-paced band performance.
Why not look up at the night sky and give it a careful listen?
osmanthus (fragrant orange osmanthus; sweet olive)natori
This song, which was a hot topic online even before its release, is a track by singer-songwriter Natori.
After an intro that exudes a jazzy vibe, the singing begins with Natori’s richly textured low voice.
The lyrics, woven around the keywords “night” and “osmanthus,” read like a story, and the meanings and emotions embedded within seem open to each listener’s interpretation.
I highly recommend listening while taking the time to carefully read the lyrics.
Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK
ONE OK ROCK, now active around the world as one of Japan’s leading rock bands.
Among their songs, the one themed around the night is “Wasted Nights.” This track was also chosen as the theme song for the film Kingdom, which is based on a Chinese historical fantasy manga, so many of you may have heard it in commercials and elsewhere.
It’s a song that captures the quiet air of the night and a determination burning in the heart.
