Ukulele masterpieces. Recommended popular songs
A roundup of classic ukulele tunes!
From hidden gems known only to aficionados to famous cover songs, we’ve picked a wide range of ukulele masterpieces.
The ukulele is a traditional Hawaiian instrument.
Many people associate the ukulele with a soothing, relaxing sound.
But in fact, the ukulele can sound incredibly cool in high-energy songs, too.
There are plenty of tracks that will make you think, “Wait, they even cover songs that intense on the ukulele?”
This time, we’ll introduce classic tracks while showcasing this fresh, unexpected side of the ukulele.
It’s a must-read for fans of Hawaiian music as well!
- Fun for ukulele beginners! Easy songs you can play with just a few chords
- [Recommended for ukulele singing and playing!] Classic Hawaiian music masterpieces
- Coming-of-age songs for your 50s: heart-thumping × heartwarming classics and popular tracks [2026]
- Songs that hype you up just by listening—recommended tracks from timeless classics to the latest releases
- [March 2026] Trending Songs: A roundup of the hottest viral tracks right now
- [Heart to the Tropics] Japanese songs that evoke Hawaiian landscapes
- [Relaxed & Gentle] A calm track with an easy, unhurried tempo
- Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
- A catchy tune that sounds familiar
- [Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now
- Cute masterpieces of J‑Pop: recommended popular songs
- [Western Music] Bluegrass masterpieces: recommended popular and signature songs
- Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Timeless Classics that Evoke Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture
Ukulele Masterpieces: Recommended Popular Songs (11–20)
TryMandy Harvey
Singer-songwriter Mandy Harvey rose to fame after appearing on the popular American audition show America’s Got Talent.
In fact, she cannot hear due to a condition called a connective tissue disorder.
Even in such circumstances, she has continued her singing career to convey the importance of never giving up.
Her song Try carries a clear message within its slightly wistful mood.
Be sure to check it out!
A Whole New WorldAnna Damita
“A Whole New World,” used as the theme song for the Disney film Aladdin released in 1992, is an extremely well-known song in Japan as well, especially with the film’s remake.
This version is a ukulele cover of “A Whole New World,” sung by an artist named Anna Damita.
While she mainly performs covers, it seems she will be releasing an original song in 2020.
Definitely one to watch!
Pua LililehuaNa Mary Kawena Pukui & Kahauanu Lake
A classic hula song, “Pua Lililehua.” If you regularly listen to Hawaiian music, you’ve probably heard it at least once.
Its melody and vocals, which resemble Okinawan folk music, are particularly striking.
Hawaiian music often likens people to flowers or plants, and in “Pua Lililehua,” the beloved is compared to the lililehua flower.
It’s recommended for those who want to enjoy slightly deeper Hawaiian music.
The ukulele tones are also soothing, so be sure to check it out!
La Vie En RoseCristin Milioti
The chanson classic “La Vie en Rose”—also one of Édith Piaf’s signature songs—is known in Japan under the title “Barairo no Jinsei” (“A Rosy Life”).
It’s a masterpiece among masterpieces, even receiving a Grammy Hall of Fame honor in 1998.
Here’s a ukulele cover of “La Vie en Rose,” performed by American singer Cristin Milioti, whose rendition captures an even more languid, wistful mood than the original.
Be sure to check it out!
MisirlouHonoka & Azita
Honoka & Azita are a ukulele duo from Hawaii.
Many people probably associate the ukulele with a laid-back image.
Their performances defy that expectation, featuring a lineup of very intense pieces.
Among them, the most intense is “Misirlou,” an Ottoman folk tune that was also used in the film TAXI.
Their arrangement feels close to the version from TAXI.
If you want to see a different side of the ukulele, be sure to check it out!