RAG Music
Lovely music

Songs for Sunday. Classic and popular Japanese tracks

Most people think Sunday is the most relaxing day of the week.

You stay out late on Saturday night, then laze around on Sunday to get ready for tomorrow…

I imagine a lot of people are like that.

This time, I’d like to introduce some wonderful Japanese songs that sing about things that happen on Sundays and the feeling of looking forward to Sunday.

Sunday songs. Japanese music masterpieces and popular songs (1–10)

Sunday: A Lonely PrayerKyōto Sangyō Daigaku Konsei Gasshōdan

From the opening song, I thought it was a heartwarming depiction of an ordinary family’s Sunday, but it turned out to be a rather cruel and intense choral piece.

The parts sung in Kansai dialect reminded me of “Chikotan,” which we were made to sing at a choir competition back in the day.

This song is far more shocking—nowhere near something you can listen to on that level.

A Lonely SundayIshikawa Seri

This song—Inoue Yosui’s wife’s “Dance wa Umaku Odorenai,” also known as a funky kayō—showcases Seri Ishikawa’s charm to the fullest.

It’s not a breakup song, but it captures a woman’s feelings after being stood up for a Sunday date: her heart sinks no matter what she does, she’s too scared to even look in the mirror, yet everyone around her seems to be having fun—an honest portrait of a woman’s heart.

Boring SundayCRAZY KEN BAND

“Boring Sunday” — the predecessor of Crazy Ken Band, CK’s
Boring SundayCRAZY KEN BAND

This is a song about how my day off is Sunday, her day off is Wednesday, and how unbearably boring Sundays are when we can’t go on a date.

It gives the impression of a younger guy leaning sweetly on an older woman.

Even meeting at dusk is enough to make me happy.

On days we can’t meet, I’ll work on improving myself! It’s one of the tracks on SMAP’s “SMAP017/SAMPLE BANG,” with the song written by Ken Yokoyama of Crazy Ken Band.

Songs for Sunday: Japanese classics and popular hits (11–20)

Sunday afternoonSuga Shikao

It’s a hidden gem by Shikao Suga that conjures scenes as if you were watching a short film.

A quiet afternoon spent with family—its gentle flow and the subtle tension that arises in fleeting moments—comes across vividly, carried by soulful sounds.

The poetic lyrics, skillfully employing colors like red and darkness, richly stimulate the listener’s imagination.

Released in June 1998, this track opens the classic album “FAMILY,” serving as a prologue to the world the record portrays.

When you want to reflect on your relationships with family, why not immerse yourself in this story?

Good morning good night Sunday

♪Good Morning, Good Night, Sunday♪ cover
Good morning good night Sunday

Composed by Shozo Ise, this song is included on Kaguya-hime’s reunion commemorative album.

Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, when we talk about our hometowns, there’s surely something that brings mutual comfort; it’s a song you can listen to closely, through which the man’s feelings for the woman clearly come across.

Sunday Love LetterOfisharu Higedan Dism

Included on the album “MAN IN THE MIRROR,” released in June 2016, this track encapsulates the early charm of Official HIGE DANDism.

Written from the perspective of a man in a long-distance relationship, the lyrics convey an attitude of cherishing the small joys found in everyday life.

Its gentle, piano-centered arrangement further enriches the lyrical world.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to treasure time with their partner or who are in a long-distance relationship.

Be sure to listen to it together with your loved one.

stooped back; slouch; poor posture (rounded back)nishina

A pop tune that portrays modern urban life, suffused with tenderness and transience.

Nishina’s addictive vocals and lyrics that capture the small moments of everyday life leave a strong impression.

The word “nekoze” carries a message of relaxing your shoulders and living true to yourself.

Released in October 2024, it was chosen as the ending theme for Yomiuri TV’s drama Tsuduisan.

This song gently supports those who are trying to find their own happiness amid busy days.

When you’re tired or feel like you’re losing sight of yourself, listening to it might give you courage.