[2026] The allure of syncopation: A collection of songs with striking syncopation
This is a bit sudden, but are you familiar with the word “syncopation”? It’s a musical term for creating a distinctive effect by deliberately shifting meter or rhythm—such as changing the accents of strong and weak beats within a bar.
If you don’t play an instrument or study music theory, you might not have heard of it.
But in fact, syncopation is widely used in the music you enjoy every day.
This time, focusing on pop and rock, we’ve put together a variety of “classic syncopation tracks” from both Western and Japanese music, across different eras.
Your favorite song might actually be using syncopation too!
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[2026] The allure of syncopation: A collection of songs with striking syncopation (1–10)
ThrillerMichael Jackson
When it comes to masterpieces that make the most of syncopation, you can’t leave this one out.
Its groovy rhythm sticks in your ears and makes you want to listen on a street corner after nightfall.
The dance scene with zombies that every music fan knows is an essential element of Halloween festivities and costume parties.
The solid bassline paired with Michael Jackson’s high-tone vocals leaves a powerful impression on listeners.
Released in November 1982, this track went on to achieve the remarkable feat of winning eight Grammy Awards the following year.
It’s a song with universal appeal that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere—not just during the Halloween season.
GetawayEarth, Wind & Fire
Let me introduce a masterpiece that fully brings out the allure of syncopation.
Released by Earth, Wind & Fire in September 1976, this track sings of an escape from the everyday.
Its thrilling horn section and driving, exhilarating rhythm will lift your spirits.
Featured on the album “Spirit,” it topped the Billboard R&B chart.
As a forerunner of the disco boom, it whipped dance floors into a frenzy.
It’s a song especially for those living stressful days—one that lets you feel the liberating power of music.
SyncopationBABYMETAL
Formed under the theme of “the fusion of idols and metal,” BABYMETAL is a three-member dance unit that has gained support both in Japan and abroad with their heavy metal sound and cute vocals.
The track Syncopation from their second album METAL RESISTANCE amps you up right from the intro with its melodic guitar riffs and aggressive beats.
Throughout the song, the use of syncopated, off-beat rhythms adds even more momentum to the sense of speed.
At the same time, the sections without syncopation highlight a crushing heaviness, making it a powerful metal tune.
As I love you selfishly, I won’t hurt anyone but you.B’z
B’z is a singular rock duo that has released countless hit tunes and continues to lead the J-pop scene.
Their 12th single, “Ai no mama ni Wagamanma ni Boku wa Kimi dake wo Kizutsukenai” (“As Love Commands, As I Please, I Will Never Hurt Anyone but You”), was used as the theme song for the Nippon TV 40th anniversary drama “Journey to the West.” The syncopation that hits at the very start of the chorus highlights the song’s most climactic section and creates a perfectly catchy hook.
It’s a quintessential 1990s rock anthem and the only B’z single to achieve double million sales.
Bad LiarSelena Gomez
This track, remarkable for its syncopation, deftly captures the complex emotions of someone falling in love.
Released in May 2017, it drew attention as a new musical venture for Selena Gomez.
By incorporating a bassline inspired by Talking Heads’ “Psycho Killer,” the American singer fused classic elements with a contemporary sound to striking effect.
The lyrics, which portray feelings that can’t be concealed no matter how hard one tries, are sure to resonate with many listeners.
The music video, set in 1978, also garnered buzz for Selena’s performance as four different characters.
It’s a song perfect for those wrestling with matters of the heart or for a season when emotions run high.