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!
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Incidental/insert songs from dramas and films that color the story (1–10)
Hail Holy QueenWhoopi Goldberg
As you listen, you can’t help wanting to clap along! It’s a song from the 1992 American film “Sister Act.” This “Hail Holy Queen” is one of the Christian choral pieces known as an antiphon.
It’s astonishing that they would so boldly rearrange what you might call a “sacred song.” Perhaps because of that, the film became a worldwide hit.
If you’ve seen it even once, there’s a good chance this scene with the song has stuck in your head.
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.
Friend Like Meyamadera kouichi
It’s a musical number that gets your heart racing with excitement! It’s a song from the 2019 film Aladdin, performed in the Japanese version by voice actor Koichi Yamadera, who plays the Genie.
The lively tune and the cheerful lyrics—basically, “Here are all the great things that happen when you’re friends with me!”—really stand out.
This live-action Aladdin is a remake of Disney’s 1992 animated film Aladdin.
The song Friend Like Me appears in both films, but the lyrics are a bit different.
That’s another fun way to enjoy it—by comparing the present and the past.
Featured songs and insert songs from dramas and films that color the story (11–20)
NOT TODAYBTS
This piece was featured as an insert song in the animal-led musical film Sing 2.
It’s a track by the globally popular Korean music group BTS, included on their 2017 album You Never Walk Alone.
With hard-hitting bass that really packs a punch, it’s a fiery hip-hop number.
Sing 2 itself makes extensive use of insert songs, so be sure to check it out and see what kind of music you can hear!
You Need a Friend ~You Need a Friend~Shion (Tsuchiya Tao)
When you’re feeling low or down, this song might lift your spirits.
Featured as an insert song in the animated film “Sing a Bit of Harmony,” it’s sung by Tao Tsuchiya, who plays the lead character, Shion.
With a rock band-style sound enriched by orchestral colors, it’s a bright, uplifting piece.
Since the song is performed during a musical scene, I highly recommend listening to it within the film—you’ll better grasp the song’s world and Shion’s feelings that way.
Starting linePARKS
This is an insert song from the drama “Fight Song,” which centers on music, romance, and human relationships, performed by the in-story band PARKS.
Shotaro Mamiya, who played one of the protagonists, Haruki Ashida, provides the vocals.
“Start Line” is a cover song; the original is Perfume’s “STAR TRAIN.” The cutting-edge electronic track has been rearranged into a powerful rock number.
It’s an emotional piece that gives you the strength to face tomorrow.
Into the Unknown ~ As My Heart LeadsMatsu Takako, Ōrora
Speaking of Disney’s Frozen, not only was the film a huge hit, but the songs featured in it were as well.
Into the Unknown (Japanese version: “Into the Unknown ~Kokoro no Mama ni”) is a song from the sequel, performed by Takako Matsu, who voices Elsa in Japanese.
The singer-songwriter Aurora Aksnes also layers her vocals as the voice calling to Elsa.
The song depicts Elsa being awakened by a mysterious voice; at first she refuses to embark on another adventure, but gradually she’s led by the song and sets out on a new journey.
Like the previous film’s Let It Go, it’s a refreshing track showcasing soaring, powerful vocals.
