Recommended and popular classic rock songs to listen to in spring

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

When you think of spring, what comes to mind?

Cherry blossoms, a season of meetings and farewells, a new life—there are many images, aren’t there?

And the emotions you feel in each of those moments can vary widely, too.

In this article, I’ll be introducing songs that are perfect for spring, with a focus on Japanese rock.

I’ve picked out many tracks that really resonate with the feelings you experience in spring.

Alongside timeless classics that have been loved for years, there are also songs by up-and-coming bands worth paying attention to in recent years, so please take your time and give them a listen.

Classic rock songs to listen to in spring: recommended popular tracks (91–100)

early this morningPorukadotto Sutingurei

Early Dawn

early this morningPorukadotto Sutingurei

“Honjitsu Mimei” by Polkadot Stingray is a song about decisively ending a relationship.

It’s included on their 2017 album Taiseigi.

The singer still has lingering feelings for the person they love, but also understands that the dragged-out relationship needs to end.

You can sense the painful resolve as they tell themselves, “It’s okay, it’s enough now,” and make the tough decision.

With spring often bringing big changes, some people may take the opportunity to reassess their relationships.

If you’re struggling to decide, this song might give you the push you need to choose a path.

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Forget-me-notMarushii

Marcy – Forget-me-not (Official Music Video)

Forget-me-notMarushii

This song beautifully captures both the poignancy and hope of spring.

The phrase “in a distant city” in the chorus is especially striking, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced a long-distance relationship or a breakup.

Throughout the track, the emotions of young people wavering in the season of falling cherry blossoms are portrayed with care, inviting listeners’ empathy.

Released in June 2022, this was Marcy’s first song themed around spring.

The music video features popular model Airi Furuta, drawing considerable attention.

It’s a recommended track for those starting a new chapter in life or those who’ve said goodbye to someone important.

The warm, comforting vocals and refreshing guitar sound capture the atmosphere of spring perfectly.

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Rock classics to listen to in spring: recommended popular songs (101–110)

to clear up (weather)Yorushika

Sunny

to clear up (weather)Yorushika

It’s a song marked by a refreshing tone that evokes the arrival of spring and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in January 2024, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.

Yorushika’s music captivates with n-buna’s poetic lyrics and suis’s clear, transparent vocals.

In this work as well, natural elements are used to express human emotions and hope, conveying a warm message that gives you the courage to move forward no matter how difficult the situation.

It’s perfect for starting a new chapter in life or embarking on a new beginning.

Accompanying the cheerful spirit of spring, this song will continue to be cherished for a long time as one that stays close to the listener’s heart.

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spring stormSangatsu no Phantasia

Marchen Phantasia “Spring Storm”

spring stormSangatsu no Phantasia

A stirring song has been born, as if heralding the arrival of spring.

The lyrics woven by Mia and the melody crafted by Sano ibuki blend beautifully, resonating deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which overlap the instability and beauty of youth with a “spring storm,” vividly depict the inner conflicts faced during growth.

Released in February 2024, the track was also chosen as the theme song for the anime “A World Gazed Through the Viewfinder.” Seamlessly fusing a sense of speed with a moving message, this work is perfect for those who want to face themselves with the coming of a new season.

Be sure to give it a listen as a song that further expands the musical world of Sangatsu no Phantasia.

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SenbonzakuraWagakki Band

Wagakki Band / Senbonzakura

SenbonzakuraWagakki Band

In 2011, the Vocaloid producer Kuro Usagi wrote and composed Senbonzakura, a song that has since become a classic everyone knows.

Many people may also be familiar with the 2014 cover by Wagakki Band.

While “sakura songs” often bring to mind slow, ballad-like melodies, this track blends a distinctly Japanese flavor with speed and intensity.

If you manage to sing it through at karaoke, you’ll likely feel exhilarated.

Be sure to give it a listen under the full bloom of cherry blossoms.

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Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

Takanori Kawasaki - Sakura Usagi [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Sakura RabbitKawasaki Takaya

This gently sung piece about the arrival of spring delicately portrays the heartache of unrequited love and the loneliness of graduation.

Amid swirling cherry blossom petals, the feelings the “Sakura Usagi” cannot bring themselves to confess are conveyed through Takaya Kawasaki’s husky vocals.

Released in January 2021, the song resonated with many as a youth anthem themed around graduation.

It is included on the album Calendar and has become one of Kawasaki’s signature tracks.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to in spring—especially recommended for students approaching graduation.

As you stand on the brink of a new beginning, why not listen with gratitude for those who matter most?

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spring thunderYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spring Thunder

spring thunderYonezu Kenshi

This is a well-known hit by Kenshi Yonezu that has earned high praise as a song themed around spring.

Since it was released in November 2017, it’s been loved for quite a long time! The track features a catchy yet emotional melody line, and its heartfelt lyrics are also a major draw.

If you’re in the mood for a gentle rock ballad that suits the spring season, take some time to listen to this song while reading the lyrics.

It’s included on the album BOOTLEG, but it absolutely stands on its own as a masterpiece.

Highly recommended for those starting a new chapter in life or experiencing a farewell with someone important.

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