Theme and insert songs from dramas and films that color the story
There’s almost always a theme song in dramas and movies that tells the story of the work itself, isn’t there?
On top of that, in-scene songs and insert songs that play during great or memorable moments are indispensable too.
In this article, we’ll introduce in-scene and insert songs that color those standout moments in dramas and films!
We’ve gathered a wide range of tracks across genres—from classic songs with a presence on par with the main theme that linger in everyone’s ears to tracks from the latest releases.
You might even find a song that colored one of your own favorite memories!
If you find a track you love, be sure to check out the drama or movie where it’s featured!
Incidental/insert songs from dramas and films that color the story (1–10)
Foundation of DreamsAkiyama Kiiro
The song chosen as an insert track for the film adaptation of Akihiro Nishino from King Kong’s picture book “Poupelle of Chimney Town” is singer-songwriter Kiro Akiyama’s “Yume no Ishizue” (Foundation of Dreams).
It was released digitally on the same day the film premiered in 2020.
The lyrics depict the determination to believe in oneself and in a light that exists somewhere, and to pursue one’s dreams no matter what others say—just like Poupelle and Lubicchi in the movie.
Listening to this song will make you want to root even more for the two as they strive in the story.
And for anyone striving toward their own dreams like they do, this track will surely give you a push forward.
Grand EscapeRADWIMPS feat. Miura Tōko
It’s an incredibly grand piece that lets you feel the world’s breadth—and its depth—just as it is.
This track was created by the rock band RADWIMPS and appears as one of the featured songs in director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film Weathering With You.
It’s included on the soundtrack released in 2019, the same year the film premiered.
Listening to it, you’re swept up by a sound brimming with vitality, the kind that sets your heart alight.
It’s a song that truly shines within the film’s world, so be sure to listen while watching the visuals.
Evening squall—da-da-da-da-da!
The film Open, based on a novel by Risa Wataya, features this idol song, “Yuudachi Dadadadada.” When the trailer was released, people were buzzing, asking, “Who’s the artist?” It turns out the vocals are by the producer’s daughter and members of the staff.
It may sound odd to put it this way, but… the quality is insanely high.
Both musically and in terms of the film’s content, it’s a youth-packed work that will especially resonate with junior and senior high school students.
By your heartBelle
This is a grand, moving ballad that stays close to the darkness of the heart and to loneliness.
The song was used as an insert track in Mamoru Hosoda’s animated film “Belle.” It’s sung by musician Kaho Nakamura, who played the lead role of Suzu Naito/Belle.
The soundscape and vocals, which shake your emotions to the core, are irresistibly captivating.
This one track alone feels like it carries the narrative weight of an entire film.
When you’re feeling down, this song might be the one to save you.
I/meSixTONES
Once you realize your true feelings, sometimes you can’t think about anything else, right? This is a song by SixTONES, a popular group from Johnny’s, released in 2022 as their seventh single.
It was used as an insert song in the drama “What Do You Do at the End of the World? Are You Busy? Will You Save Us?” The piece carries a lo-fi music vibe, with a piano tone that resonates poignantly.
Perhaps that’s why it leaves you with a faintly restless feeling as you listen.
It’s a deep, evocative number that makes you overlay the protagonist of the lyrics with yourself.
SparkleRADWIMPS
Makoto Shinkai’s animated film Your Name features numerous iconic songs like “Zenzenzense” and “Nandemonaiya.” Among these many masterpieces, “Sparkle” is another popular insert song.
Composed by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, it’s included on their 2016 album Human Bloom.
Its gentle melody perfectly complements the film’s stunning visuals.
The lyrics evoke the almost-within-reach distance between Taki and Mitsuha, stirring a sense of romance not only for those who’ve seen the film but even for those who haven’t.
Be sure to watch the movie while paying attention to all the other great tracks as well!
Only youKami wa saikoro o furanai
This song was featured as an insert track in the drama “Beloved Lies: Gentle Darkness.” It’s by the Fukuoka-born rock band God Doesn’t Play Dice and is included on their 2022 major-label debut album, “Event Horizon.” The lyrics, infused with earnest feelings for a loved one, tighten your chest with their poignancy.
It conveys both love and loneliness at the same time.
Listen closely to its beautiful melody and fragile, ephemeral vocals.