“Song of War”: A classic that sings of the tragedy and folly of war
Songs of war that are etched deeply into the human heart.
Within those voices lie prayers for peace, love for family, and memories that should be passed down across generations.
Living in the present, we can reflect anew on the horrors of war and the preciousness of peace through these songs.
In this article, we introduce moving songs themed around “war” that have left their mark on the history of Japanese music.
Shall we take a fresh look—through music—at the importance of a peaceful, conflict-free everyday life that we must protect?
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[Songs of War] Masterpieces that sing of the tragedy and folly of war (1–10)
Love the warzSEKAI NO OWARI
Ironically, the very pretext of protecting peace ends up sparking conflict.
This is a song by SEKAI NO OWARI that confronts that searing contradiction.
Beneath its dreamy, pop sound, the theme exposes the dangers lurking in words like “peace” and “love,” sharply shaking the listener’s values.
The track is included on the acclaimed album ENTERTAINMENT, released in July 2012, which won the Excellence Album Award at the 54th Japan Record Awards.
It’s a profound piece that makes you realize how fragile the peace we take for granted truly is—so much so that the weight of that reality tightens in your chest.
The bell of peace ringsSazan Ōrusutāzu
This is a song by Southern All Stars that, within a grand worldview, quietly yet powerfully sings a prayer for peace.
Its sound, combining warmth and stillness, gently embraces the listener’s heart.
Written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata, who was inspired by an NHK documentary program, the song uses words born from the color of a sky reflecting sorrow as a clue to depict the preciousness of life and dreams for the future.
Included on the album “Budou,” released in March 2015—the milestone year marking 70 years since the end of the war—it also became familiar as NHK’s 90th anniversary image song.
THE WAR SONGYamashita Tatsuro
This is a track by Tatsuro Yamashita that sings a prayer for a world without conflict, set to an uplifting blend of funk and soul.
Released in April 1986, it appears on the masterpiece “POCKET MUSIC,” which won the Excellence Album Award at the 28th Japan Record Awards.
While it takes on the heavy theme of “war,” what comes through is not a narrow focus on national interest, but a powerful wish for a future of coexistence for the entire planet.
Rather than sorrow or despair, it radiates a hopeful, vigorous energy that stirs the listener’s heart.
It may prompt us to reflect anew on just how precious our ordinary, peaceful daily lives truly are.
[War Songs] Masterpieces that sing of the tragedy and folly of war (11–20)
Rainbow-Colored WarSEKAI NO OWARI
In contrast to its pop, slightly fantastical sound, this song by SEKAI NO OWARI pierces with a biting message.
From the perspective of small creatures like flowers and insects, the work exposes the deceit behind the “peace” and “freedom” proclaimed by humans.
The theme of the “invisible war” we join without noticing—or pretend not to notice—is quintessentially SEKAI NO OWARI.
The track appears on EARTH, a landmark indie-era album released in April 2010.
It’s a song that makes you realize that our ordinary, everyday lives may be built upon someone else’s sacrifice.
TriangleSMAP
SMAP’s single “Triangle” is a powerful work that captures the meaninglessness and tragedy of war.
Released in 2005, it continues to pose a timeless question to the world.
Lyricist Yoshiyasu Ichikawa, who witnessed real-time news of war, infused the song with his grandfather’s wartime experiences.
Its message continues to move listeners’ hearts.
When we turn our eyes to wars occurring around the world, this song stands out once again as a masterpiece that appeals for the preciousness of peace.
Soldier A-kun’s SongNanao Tabito
Tavito Nanao’s “Soldier A’s Song” is a masterpiece that conveys the folly of war.
Questioning Japan’s security posture, the track intertwines a message of peace with the tragedy of war.
Its message, carried by a melody centered on acoustic guitar and his vocals, will resonate deeply.
It’s a wonderful work where Nanao’s wide-ranging musicality blends seamlessly, and it’s especially recommended for listeners who yearn for peace.
His live performances are also a must-see—if you have a chance to go, don’t miss it!
What the dead man left behindSakushi: Tanikawa Shuntarō / Sakkyoku: Takemitsu Tōru
This is a work for unaccompanied chorus with lyrics by Shuntaro Tanikawa and music by Toru Takemitsu.
It was created in 1965 for a “Citizens’ Rally for Peace in Vietnam.” Characterized by a simple structure and highly message-driven lyrics, it has been covered by various singers and is frequently performed at classical concerts and the like.