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 (31–40)
RYU STYLEDA PUMP
A track released in 2004 by DA PUMP, who made a comeback in 2018 with “U.S.A.” It’s a number that layers razor-sharp rap over a track featuring Okinawan traditional instruments.
DA PUMP, who have even performed at Shurijo Castle, include ISSA and other original members from Okinawa.
Let this Okinawa-born dance beat get your body moving in all the right ways.
Across timeHY
This song was created after hearing my grandmother’s harrowing experiences in the Battle of Okinawa, and it carries a strong resolve that we must cherish life and never forget the horrors of war.
It conveys a powerful message that I am who I am today because my grandpa and grandma never gave up hope and fought hard to survive.
With a sanshin in one handDiamantes
This is the theme song for the 3rd Worldwide Uchinanchu Festival.
The message—let’s strum the sanshin and set off into the world—is also directed at the younger generation of Okinawans who are expanding their activities from the small islands of Okinawa to the global stage.
Something that shouldn’t be thereHY
A song inspired by seeing an elderly woman picking up trash left by tourists, and feeling frustrated with myself for not being able to help, which led me to think about the issue of garbage.
I’m once again moved by the message: let’s take home what doesn’t belong there—trash—as part of our happy memories and make the place clean.
Grandma Obaa’s Signature Bomb Hot PotBEGIN
“Grandma’s Boast: Bomb Hotpot” — the title alone is amusing, isn’t it? I think this song is fun to listen to because it mentions many Okinawan dishes.
The lyrics portray the strength of Okinawan women, who endured hardships during the last war yet still carry themselves with brightness.
Okinawan Songs (41–50)
sunflowerCivilian Skunk
CivilianSkunk, a band from Okinawa that has swept numerous competitions and auditions, was formed by four members who met in middle school.
Their single “Himawari,” released on March 20, 2013, features a catchy melody that leaves an impression.
The sanshin in the intro is great, too!
Let’s walk facing forwardJonī Ginowan
Johnny Ginowan, who rose to prominence as a singer representing Okinawan local products, performs a song that arranges Kyu Sakamoto’s “Ue o Muite Arukou” in an Okinawan style.
The Okinawan-version lyrics, which seem to speak for the feelings of the Okinawan people who have lived through the Battle of Okinawa and the reversion to Japanese sovereignty, resonate gently in the heart.