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Spitz’s classic songs covered by popular artists

Speaking of Spitz, they’re such a staple in Japan’s music scene that their songs have even appeared in music textbooks.

They have so many popular tracks that you might think, “Is there anyone who’s never heard their music at all?”

They’re loved not only by listeners but by many musicians as well, and plenty of artists openly call themselves fans.

In this article, we’ll introduce songs of theirs that have been covered by these popular artists.

We’ve picked out their signature tracks that are frequently covered, as well as some hidden gem covers—be sure to give them a listen!

Spitz Masterpieces Covered by Popular Artists (21–30)

MapleTomei

This is the version by the much-talked-about singer-songwriter Tomyo, produced as an insert song for the film “Kaede.” Discovered by RADWIMPS’ Yojiro Noda, her voice overlaps with Yaffle’s understated arrangement to draw out the story’s poignancy even more deeply.

In the film, which premiered in December 2025, the piece is used repeatedly as a key motif, moving audiences to tears.

As director Isao Yukisada chose her for evoking “the boundary between life and death,” her singing is marked by a translucent clarity tinged with shadow.

It’s also included on the “Kaede” soundtrack album—one you’ll want to savor slowly along with the film’s afterglow.

Different from Spitz’s original, its delicate, storyteller-like resonance is part of its charm.

MapleNatsuiro Matsuri & Rikka

Kaede / Spitz (Covered by Natsuiro Matsuri & Rikka)
MapleNatsuiro Matsuri & Rikka

This is a duet version sung by Natsuiro Matsuri and Rikka, who belong to the virtual talent agency hololive production.

The original song is a single by Spitz released in 1998, widely known as an insert song for a TV drama.

The poignant lyrics, themed around parting and memory, are beautifully expressed by Natsuiro Matsuri’s clear, translucent high notes and Rikka’s gentle, enveloping low tones.

Released in September 2020, this work features professional-grade production—Bernis handled the mixing—and it’s crafted so finely that simply listening feels purifying.

The overlap of male and female vocals brings out a different narrative breadth from the original.

Spitz Masterpieces Covered by Popular Artists (31–40)

MapleTakebuchi Kei × Kanda Rioka

Kaede / Spitz Covered by Kei Takebuchi × Rioka Kanda
MapleTakebuchi Kei × Kanda Rioka

This is a collaborative version featuring two accomplished singer-songwriters from the same music project, Kei Takebuchi and Rioka Kanda, layering their voices.

It’s an iconic ballad by Spitz, released as a single in 1998 and also included on the album “Fake Fur,” and the story of the two singing it at a secluded station in Nagano is also striking.

With a film inspired by the song slated for release in 2025, this work carries added anticipation.

The original’s sense of poignancy and loss resonates with a newfound warmth in their crystal-clear harmonies, as if they’re sharing memories.

This cover, which also connects to Takebuchi’s album “Kono Uta o Anata ni” (“This Song Is for You”), has an atmosphere that feels like an autumn breeze, and when you listen on a quiet night, it can make you feel as though your heart is being gently cleansed.

MapleNoda Megumi

Kaede / Spitz Cover by Emi Noda
MapleNoda Megumi

This is a version by singer-songwriter Emi Noda, who rose to prominence through her activities on video-sharing platforms and has also provided theme songs for TV dramas.

Her hallmark gentle, empathetic voice tenderly envelops the poignant melody and lyrical worldview of the piece.

While preserving the delicate, ephemeral atmosphere of the original by Spitz, her clear, grounded vocals ring out powerfully in the chorus, stirring the heart just by listening.

Originally released as a video in March 2021, it was officially included on the album “THE COVERS EP vol.3,” released in November 2022.

While conveying respect for the original, this rendition is imbued with her own unique colors—perfect for a quiet night when you want to spend time alone.

MapleHaruma

"Kaede" Kaede / Spitz – hima.cover#99
MapleHaruma

This version features Haruma, whose smoky voice combines refinement and luster, singing gently with an acoustic touch.

She began posting videos on YouTube in January 2020 and has drawn attention for her vocal prowess, beautifully conveying the poignant world of this classic song.

Unlike Spitz’s original boyish purity, her rendition is characterized by a mature, feminine atmosphere tinged with melancholy.

It’s the kind of voice that gently stays by your side when you want to savor the lyrics alone on a quiet night.

NagisaMay J.

May J. / “Nagisa” (from the cover album “Summer Ballad Covers”)
NagisaMay J.

This is a cover by a songstress who performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and made her vocal prowess known to the world through karaoke scoring TV programs.

As expected, when a mature woman sings it, the song gains a touch of sensuality and sounds completely different.

May J.’s voice seems to add a more dramatic color to the piece.

Soulmateurutora tawā

[Ultra Tower / ULTRA RADIO] Spitz / Unmei no Hito (Cover) Studio Live 2014/12/26
Soulmateurutora tawā

Ultra Tower with male vocals.

Choosing “Unmei no Hito” as a cover is a sharp move.

The slightly languid, androgynous singing voice is addictive.

What’s decisively different is the vocalist’s timbre.

There are many elements not found in the original, so give it a listen.

In conclusion

We introduced Spitz songs covered by popular artists. We picked tracks from tribute albums as well as some hidden gem covers. There are still many more covers of Spitz songs out there, including many we couldn’t feature this time. If you’re interested, try searching on your own and find your favorites!