Sakanaction’s classic and popular songs
Here are some songs by Sakanaction, a band that has carved out a unique place for themselves with distinctive tracks rooted in their own worldview.
I still can’t forget the time they headlined at one of the RUSH BALL festivals—the stage at Izumiotsu Phoenix, enveloped in the darkness of night and illuminated with dreamy lighting, matched their music perfectly and was truly moving.
Ichiro Yamaguchi (Vo./Gt.) is an avid angler, and some of their songs use fishing as a concept, with fishing scenes even appearing in their music videos.
Knowing that background might lead to new discoveries when you listen to their music.
Sakanaction’s classic and popular songs (1–10)
I can’t forget it.Sakanakushon
This work is characterized by a sound that strongly reflects 80s pop and culture, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
The music video thoroughly recreates the atmosphere of that era, which became a hot topic, resulting in a piece that’s visually engaging as well.
It’s included on Sakanaction’s album “834.194,” released in June 2019, and was also featured in SoftBank’s TV commercial “Speed Limit Man.” Ichiro Yamaguchi appears in the commercial, and his presence drew considerable attention.
The lyrics convey the bittersweetness of moving to Tokyo and paint scenes of urban nights, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
It’s perfect for slightly sentimental evenings or as a companion on a drive.
Experience the pleasant groove where modernity and retro sensibilities blend.
MossSakanakushon
From the very intro, this piece leaves a powerful impression with its ominous yet comical sound and lyrics that affirm the beauty of being a minority.
Danceable beats intertwine with synths and brass tones, lifting the listener’s spirits.
Released as a single in August 2019, it drew attention at the time for being deliberately issued in the 8 cm CD format.
It’s also included on the acclaimed album “834.194,” and became familiar to a broad audience as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Daughter of Lupin.” It continued to be used for the film adaptation as well, closely aligning with the work’s worldview.
It’s a classic I’d recommend to anyone who wants to stay true to themselves or needs to recharge their energy in a pivotal moment.
kaiju (giant monster)Sakanakushon
A grand electro-rock tune that powerfully captures the passion of those who pursue knowledge and truth.
This ambitious work portrays seekers who continue to challenge the unknown, set against a world whose atmosphere shifts monstrously and dramatically.
Resonating with the courage to press on without giving up, even in darkness, and the strong will that sustains it, the piece was released in February 2025 as the opening theme for the anime “Chi.: On the Movements of the Earth.” As Sakanaction’s first anime tie-in, this track is perfect for moments when you want to savor the joy of deepening knowledge and the fulfillment of discovering the truth.
aruku aroundSakanakushon
Please try listening to it on your way home from work or school.
Won’t it make you feel positive and ready to do your best starting tomorrow? Also, I’d love for you to watch the music video for this song.
It’s so stylish and well-made that you’ll want to watch it again.
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
Shin Takara-jima by Sakanaction was released in 2015.
The song was created as the theme for the film Bakuman, which focuses on a young man aiming to become a manga artist.
Because of this, the lyrics frequently use the word “draw,” and the title is taken from Osamu Tezuka’s New Treasure Island, a landmark work by one of Japan’s most iconic manga artists.
It’s a well-conceived track with a clear concept, and it might be fun to listen to it with these points in mind.
Goodbye is an emotionSakanakushon
This is a song by Sakanaction that vividly depicts emotional ups and downs and the moment of parting.
It skillfully portrays how lost feelings are awakened and the instant when emotions hidden deep in the heart overflow.
Released in October 2014 as a double A-side single, it also came with a special DVD.
Ichiro Yamaguchi’s highly literary lyrics harmonize beautifully with the band’s distinctive sound, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a farewell or want to reminisce about someone special.
Listen while looking up at the night sky, and it’s sure to seep into your heart.
It’s because I listened to Bach’s melody at night.Sakanakushon
Pushed by its distinctive title, “Because I Listened to Bach’s Melody at Night,” this tune depicts the shock of hearing Bach’s melody, just as the title suggests.
It’s a song that captures an impulse similar to the one in Shinsei Kamattechan’s “Rock’n’Roll wa Narinai.”
Maybe the wind.Sakanakushon
From the moment I hear it, I can picture the scene vividly in my mind.
It feels like a scene from a movie or drama, and as I listen, I get the sense that I’m slipping into the story myself.
It’s a song that makes me recall bittersweet romances and feel a slightly more grown-up version of myself.
Native DancerSakanakushon
I think everyone has their own interpretation of lyrics, but considering that the album featuring “Native Dancer” was their first after moving to Tokyo, it feels like a song expressing the anxiety of possibly being forgotten by the people back home in Hokkaido.
EndlessSakanakushon
There are times when I want to look away from everything—nasty rumors, badmouthing, all of it.
When you feel like you don’t want to hear anything, I really hope you’ll listen to this song.
Somehow the lyrics resonate in my heart and bring me to tears.
The melody, the lyrics, and the singing voice are all gentle and beautiful.