From J-pop to folk songs! Popular and classic Okinawan tunes
For those of you looking for songs from Okinawa, this article introduces a wide variety of music related to the islands.
We’ve picked out everything from J-pop themed around Okinawa and Okinawan pops to traditional folk songs that have been passed down for generations.
Okinawan music is so captivating, isn’t it? From instruments like the sanshin and other traditional Japanese instruments to its distinctive vocal style—and that unmistakably Okinawan vibe!
Getting a bit musical here, but Okinawan music often uses a five-note scale known as the Ryukyu scale or the yo-nuki scale, built on the notes do–mi–fa–so–ti–do.
That very resonance of the Ryukyu scale is the secret behind the uniquely Okinawan atmosphere you feel in these songs!
Listen to the tracks we’re about to introduce and soak in the spirit of Okinawa.
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Okinawan Songs / Okinawa Songs (1–10)
Child GodNatsukawa Rimi
This song portrays the warm, embracing, and generous love of a mother soothing her newborn baby.
There are versions sung in the Okinawan language and in standard Japanese, with Rimi Natsukawa’s version being the most famous.
However, the song originally belongs to Misako Koja, a female singer from Okinawa.
With lyrics by Misako Koja and music by Kazuya Sahara, it was created in 1997.
Orion Beer, Okinawa’s prideBEGIN
This song is about Orion Beer, a local brew from Okinawa.
It’s a track by BEGIN, a three-piece acoustic band that represents Okinawa.
It was included on their 2002 mini-album “Begin no Shimauta ~Omoto Takeo 2~.” “Ojii” means grandfather.
You can almost picture the smiling face of a grandpa enjoying his beer.
Flower ~A Flower for Everyone’s Heart~Kina Shoukichi
It’s a famous song that has been covered by many artists, but it was originally written by Okinawan musician Shoukichi Kina.
Many people might not know the title, but I’m sure a lot of listeners will recognize it as soon as they hear the opening, and the chorus is probably familiar to a great many people.
While it carries the feel of traditional Okinawan music, it also incorporates rock and pop elements, resulting in a very approachable sound and a memorable melody!
Okinawan Songs / Okinawa Songs (11–20)
Songs packed with episodes related to Okinawa, too!
We introduced ten classic songs carefully selected by our editorial team. I’m sure many of them were familiar to you. From here on, we’ll continue introducing recommended J-pop related to Okinawa! The songs featured here each have various episodes connected to Okinawa, and we couldn’t cover them all, so if you’re interested, please look them up.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyMoriyama Ryoko
As an Okinawan song, this piece is extremely famous and a classic covered by many musicians! With lyrics by Ryoko Moriyama and music by BEGIN, the first release was the version sung by Ryoko Moriyama.
Although this song has long been cherished as a graduation song and its lyrics can be interpreted as being about romance, it was actually written with thoughts of Moriyama’s older brother, who passed away at a young age.
It’s a very beautiful, ballad-style song that makes you feel as if your heart is cleansed when you listen to it.
Sanshin FlowerBEGIN
Speaking of BEGIN, they’ve released many songs related to Okinawa, and this one among them especially captures the essence of Okinawa.
Some people may also recognize it as it was featured as an insert song in the film “Tears for You” (Nada Sōsō).
The lyrics describe how picking up the sanshin left behind by a late grandfather becomes the catalyst for reflecting on memories with him.
With gentle vocals and the rich flavor of traditional folk music, it’s a moving masterpiece that truly resonates.
Dynamic RyukyuNarisoko Yūko
This is an Okinawan song sung by Yuko Narusoko, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa Prefecture.
It’s included on her fourth album, “Takara,” released in 2011.
The track is a cover of “Dynamic Ryukyu,” originally created by Akira Ikuma.
Her vocals are gentle yet powerful, and the uplifting, passionate sound leaves a strong impression.
Perfect for when you need a boost.
Tree of WadatsumiHajime Chitose
This is Hitose Moto’s debut single, released in 2002.
It became one of that year’s big hits.
The lyrics and composition were by Gen Ueda, who was active in the 1980s and 1990s as a member of the band LÄ-PPISCH.
Its lyrical words and a delicate yet powerful vocal performance captured people’s hearts.