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Lovely rock

Recommended and popular classic rock songs to listen to in spring

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.

Rock masterpieces to listen to in spring: Recommended popular songs (51–60)

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

This song portrays the loss and rebirth of youth.

Released by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in March 2010, it was written as the main theme for a film based on Inio Asano’s manga.

The lyrics depict the pain of parting and a forward-looking new beginning, making it a moving piece that resonates with many listeners.

It was also used as the ending theme for the film Solanin, which features a scene where the lead actors, Aoi Miyazaki and Kengo Kora, perform the song.

It’s highly recommended for those who feel the uncertainty and bittersweetness of their youthful days.

The beginning is now.Elefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi is a four-piece rock band that, while attracting attention with provocative performances around their debut, has continued to lead the forefront of the J-POP scene for many years with their solid musicality.

Their 17th single, “Hajimari wa Ima,” is memorable for its vocals and ensemble that carry a touch of melancholy.

The melody’s nostalgic atmosphere evokes the warmth of spring.

With a pop yet emotional guitar solo that feels just right, it’s a perfect song to listen to in spring.

Cherry blossoms, along the path where petals swirl upElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “The Road Where Cherry Blossoms Dance Up”
Cherry blossoms, along the path where petals swirl upElefanto Kashimashi

Sakura no Hana, Maiagaru Michi o depicts the resolve to walk forward with a loved one as spring arrives and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Released in 2007 by Elephant Kashimashi, a rock band known for its unique sound infused with blues and rock, the song looks back on life and sings of a spring spent with a beloved person after overcoming various hardships.

The passionate band performance, enhanced with a vibrant arrangement, conveys a powerful sense of determination and will.

Paired with Hiroji Miyamoto’s soulful vocals, it’s a love song that unfolds a heartwarming story set in the spring season.

Robinsonsupittsu

Known as a classic song about spring, this is one of Spitz’s signature tracks.

The bittersweetness and anxiety that arrive with the start of a new season are universal emotions everyone has felt at least once.

Lyrics depicting the protagonist’s longing love and a special world for just the two of them seep into the heart, carried by a clear, translucent melody.

Released in April 1995, it sold over 1.62 million copies.

It was also included on the album “Honey” (Hachimitsu) and won the Excellence Award at the 37th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a recommended song when you want to look back on memories of your youth or reflect on relationships with those dear to you.

Rock Masterpieces to Listen to in Spring: Recommended Popular Songs (61–70)

Spring of Ashura feat. Moeka Shiotsuka (Hitsujibungaku)Kimyō Reitarō

Kimiryo Reitaro – “Spring Asura feat. Moeka Shiotsuka (Hitsujibungaku)” Official Lyric Video
Spring of Ashura feat. Moeka Shiotsuka (Hitsujibungaku)Kimyō Reitarō

Reitaro Kimyo is a singer-songwriter who not only fronts Animations and Tensai Band but also works as a narrator for commercials.

Featuring Moeka Shiozuka of Hitsujibungaku, “Haru no Shura feat.

Moeka Shiozuka (Hitsujibungaku)” is a striking track that opens with a nostalgic melody and an airy ensemble.

The lyrics, woven with a distinctive worldview, excel in the way they make effective use of the sound of words.

It’s a pop tune full of wistful charm, perfect for a balmy spring day.

CircleHanazawa Kana

Kana Hanazawa “Circle” Music Video
CircleHanazawa Kana

It’s a rock number that hits you with a rush of speed, coolness, and cuteness all at once.

Performed by popular voice actress Kana Hanazawa, it was released digitally in April 2023 and chosen as the opening theme for the drama “My Beautification Won’t Stop!?” The lyrics and composition are by the up-and-coming singer-songwriter Kei Sugawara, who was selected for RADAR: Early Noise 2022.

The fast-paced sound pairs perfectly with the catchy wording and melodic lines.

It’s highly addictive—you’ll want to play it over and over.

Hanazawa often voices cute characters, but her crisp, sharp vocals on this track… they might be a bit different from the image you’ve had of her until now.

Spring is like the windBIGMAMA

BIGMAMA’s “Spring Like the Wind” is a song that recalls the various seasons spent with a lover.

It’s included on the 2013 album Kimi Omou, Yue ni Ware Ari.

The lyrics paint days filled with joyful memories in every season, when one’s heart was overflowing with love for that special person.

But those days will never return, and remembering the happiness of that time brings a touch of melancholy.

Spring, a season of many farewells, can make us feel a bit sentimental, can’t it? When parting ways after happy times, this song will be there to comfort you.