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[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.

Songs Praying for Peace: To Prevent Repeating Tragic History | A Collection of Heart-Touching Peace Songs (111–120)

Hiroshima Peace SongSakushi: Shigezono Yoshio / Sakkyoku: Yamamoto Shuu

A gem of a choral work imbued with the desire to pass on the devastation of the Hiroshima atomic bombing to future generations and to pray for world peace.

First unveiled at the inaugural “Peace Festival” on August 6, 1947, this piece powerfully expresses a prayer for peace.

It has been sung every year at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Ceremony, and in 2018, under the baton of Hiroshima-born conductor Eiji Oue, a CD was produced with the cooperation of the Hiroshima Shin-on Orchestra and the Hiroshima Choral Association.

In 2023, an English-language video was also released as part of the Hiroshima International Peace and Culture Festival.

This is a song that resonates deeply with all who carry a wish for peace in their hearts, and with those who seek to connect with the spirit of Hiroshima.

[Songs Wishing for Peace] To Prevent Repeating Tragic History | A Collection of Moving Peace Songs (121–130)

CHILDREN IN THE WARGLAY

CHILDREN IN THE WAR Live From HIGHCOMMUNICATIONS 2003
CHILDREN IN THE WARGLAY

GLAY’s 2003 performance of “CHILDREN IN THE WAR” is a powerful work packed with a deeply moving message.

Created by the band’s leader TAKURO in response to the Iraq War, the song calls for strong empathy from listeners.

Hearing it will make your longing for world peace resonate even more strongly.

Its essence also shines through on the album “UNITY ROOTS & FAMILY, AWAY,” which I highly recommend!

Sacchan’s stethoscopeTakahashi Kabako

Kabako Takahashi “Sacchan’s Stethoscope” ~short ver~
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!

In conclusion

Songs of peace carry a universal message that resonates deeply in people’s hearts across all eras. Voices that sing of a hopeful future and the preciousness of life will surely strengthen our longing for peace. As you listen to these pieces, take a quiet moment to reflect on the importance of peace.