[Songs Praying for Peace] To Prevent Repeating Tragic History | A Collection of Peace Songs That Resonate with the Heart
Songs of peace that resonate in our hearts in every era.
Many timeless classics that wish for a world without war or conflict and embody the preciousness of peace in song have long continued to stay close to people’s hearts.
In this article, we introduce songs—mainly from Japanese music—that are imbued with prayers and hopes for peace.
Powerful messages like “Don’t forget the painful history,” and warm sentiments such as “Let’s build a Japan and a world without conflict together.” You’re sure to find a message of peace that resonates with your heart.
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Songs Praying for Peace: To Prevent Repeating Tragic History | A Collection of Heart-Touching Peace Songs (111–120)
Happy Xmas（War Is Over）Awich
A track by Awich, a rapper from Okinawa who drew attention for serving as both the heroine and the performer of the theme song for the 2022 film Eternal 1 Minute.
It’s a cover of the Christmas song created by John Lennon and Yoko Ono—an iconic piece also known worldwide as an anti-war anthem.
The expansive piano sound, driven by its striking chord progression, and her emotional, sentimental vocals—reflective of her Okinawan roots—create a majestic atmosphere.
It’s a ballad that reminds us of the timeless folly of conflict, a song we hope will be passed down forever.
Himeyuri ~Poem of the Lily~MONGOL800
This is a song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.
It speaks to the tragedy of war—something we must not forget not only as people of Okinawa but as Japanese.
It honors the many victims of the 1945 Battle of Okinawa, including a tribute to the Himeyuri Student Corps, often called the “tragic maidens.” The song carries a message that no matter how much time passes, we must not erase this tragedy as something of the past; instead, we must pass it down as a real event that truly happened, not a distant memory.
Perhaps it is a piece that prompts us to reflect on how sorrowful war really is.
Dashing! RasputinZa Rīsaru Weponzu
Rasputin on the Run portrays a wish for a peaceful world through a unique worldview.
The Lethal Weapons, a band drawing attention for their humorous musicality and fashion, released a self-cover in 2022.
It’s crafted into a passionate band sound reminiscent of rap-rock/nu metal.
Their heroic vocals set against colorful synths are also striking.
The song carries an earnest message for a world without war.
Listen while praying for a bright future where everyone can join hands.
Hiroshima I always used to seeyoshida takurou
It’s a song included on Takuro Yoshida’s 11th studio album, “On a Corner of Asia,” released in 1980.
The song quietly speaks about Hiroshima, lamenting the frustration and sorrow that time makes us forget.
It gently appeals that these feelings—though overwhelming even to oneself—must not be allowed to fade.
Sacchan’s stethoscopeTakahashi Kabako
Pediatricians often warm the stethoscope with their hands before using it so children won’t be startled by the cold.
It’s a gentle gesture that makes you think, “That’s what medicine is about.” Speaking of stethoscopes, Kabako Takahashi’s song “Sacchan’s Stethoscope” tells the half-life story of a real physician, Shoko Yajima, who worked in Osaka’s Airin district.
The lyrics—about “working hard for the poor while thinking of one’s hometown”—are as unadorned as everyday clothes.
Yajima, who was also called the “Mother Teresa of Nishinari,” surely wished for peace in her neighborhood and, by extension, in the world.
If there’s such a thing as a hidden masterpiece, this is it—don’t miss it if you haven’t heard it yet!
Only One,Only YouGLAY
As a visual kei rock band, GLAY has been active on the front lines for over 20 years.
Their 60th single, “Only One, Only You,” released in 2022, is an anti-war song written by the band’s leader, TAKURO, in response to the invasion of Ukraine.
The lyrics, depicting everyday life falling apart and cityscapes reduced to rubble, likely resonate with many who have seen these heartbreaking realities on the news or social media.
Stop the fighting, and wish for peace not just for yourself, but for everyone.
It’s a song that strongly conveys that sentiment.
chantRADWIMPS
This song expresses a wish for peace around the world through RADWIMPS’ uniquely distinctive wording and sound.
The lyrics sharply capture the contradictions and struggles of our complex modern society, leaving a strong impression.
The lines asserting that “it’s a miracle we were born into this world” also seem to convey the preciousness of life and the importance of peace.
Released in August 2012, the track has been performed only rarely at RADWIMPS’ live shows, and is regarded among fans as something of a elusive piece.
It’s recommended for those who resonate with facing the problems of contemporary society while striving to find hope.