[Piano Solo with Vocals] Recommended for Piano-and-Vocal Performances! Hit Songs from the Heisei to Reiwa Eras
Singing while accompanying yourself on the piano—piano-vocal performances—are so cool and wonderful, aren’t they!
Many famous artists perform in a piano-and-vocal style, and every year brings a wealth of great songs.
In this article, we’ll introduce recommended songs for those who want to try piano-vocal covers, focusing on hits from the Heisei and Reiwa eras.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks—not only songs originally written for piano-and-vocal performance, but also pieces with captivating piano timbres, songs where the piano isn’t the main instrument yet suit piano-vocal arrangements perfectly, and more.
Why not use this article as a starting point to make your own piano-vocal debut?
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[Piano Solo with Vocals] Recommended for Piano Solo with Vocals! Hit Songs from the Heisei to Reiwa Eras (21–30)
Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)
Kenta Kiritani’s digitally released single “Umi no Koe” is distinguished by its beautiful piano intro featuring high-register phrases.
Created as a song for the “au Santaro Series” commercials, it’s a warm, heartfelt ballad that expresses the feelings of Urashima Taro—played by Kiritani—toward Otohime.
While the original arrangement evokes Okinawa with sounds like the sanshin, it’s also a piece that shines with just solo piano.
It feels great to belt out the chorus while accompanying yourself, so definitely give it a try!
Marunouchi SadisticShiina Ringo
Among Shiina Ringo’s songs—which captivate many fans with her one-of-a-kind musicality—“Marunouchi Sadistic” is one of the most popular.
Its unique melody and groove have won over countless listeners, and on video platforms, stripped-down performances by artists and creators are especially popular.
If you love music, you’ll find it impossible not to relate to this track, infused with Shiina Ringo’s own burning passion for music and her struggles.
Once you can play the basic chords and a simple version of the right-hand melody, start gradually incorporating more complex rhythms into the accompaniment and try your hand at a solo vocal-and-instrument performance.
Shape of LoveMISIA
With her overwhelming vocal prowess and musicality, MISIA continues to captivate countless fans.
“Ai no Katachi,” a moving song themed around the diversity of love, expresses deep feelings for a loved one with warmth and strength.
It’s perfect for those who want to perform a message-driven song in a solo vocal-and-instrument style.
Because the song has a wide vocal range and is challenging even for vocals alone, when doing a self-accompanied performance, start by securing the chords and root notes, and practice by lightly playing the melody with your right hand.
Aim for MISIA’s emotionally stirring delivery, savor the lyrics’ meaning, and perform with rich expression.
threadNakajima Miyuki
A great recommendation for female singer-songwriters who are beginners at singing with self-accompaniment is Miyuki Nakajima’s “Ito.” Released as a single in 1998, it’s known as a classic that remains beloved by many even after more than 20 years.
If you’re accompanying yourself on piano, a simpler arrangement is easier to play, right? This is a straightforward ballad that can be rendered with the most orthodox quarter-note chord accompaniment, making it a perfect first song to try for singing with piano.
The key is B-flat (two flats), which uses many white keys, so it’s easier to remember which keys to press—another point in its favor!
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
“Eikou no Kakehashi” by Yuzu, released in 2004 and chosen as the official theme song for the Athens Olympics, is known as one of the duo’s signature songs, continuing to move many people with its profound message and warm melody.
It is also beloved as a staple song for graduation season and is supported by a wide range of listeners.
Its moving melody and lyrics come across powerfully even with simple accompaniment, making it perfect for beginner piano-vocal performers.
Start by practicing with just the basic chords and root notes, and once you’re comfortable, gradually challenge yourself with arrangements that use more notes.
A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota
Healing the heart with the gentle tones of the piano, “A Melody Instead of a Bouquet” is a ballad where sweet vocals and melody are exquisitely matched.
The love story Shota Shimizu paints is tinged with a certain wistfulness, quietly sinking into listeners’ hearts.
Often performed at weddings and celebrations, this song makes those who hear it feel happy, and doing a solo piano-and-vocal rendition is sure to captivate those around you.
Why not convey your love with a stripped-down performance for your partner or to celebrate a special day?
rainbow-coloredayaka
Ayaka’s “Nijiiro” captivates many with its moving melody and beautiful lyrics.
Known as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Hanako to Anne,” the piece has a timeless, cross-generational appeal and is perfect for piano and voice.
The piano’s canon-style accompaniment is rhythmic and soothing, further elevating the song’s powerful message.
As with its reputation for being easy to play on guitar, it has a simple yet resonant sound, making it enjoyable for everyone from beginners to advanced players.