“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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[War Songs] Masterpieces that sing of the tragedy and folly of war (11–20)
A NEW STYLE WARHamada Shogo
A socially conscious rock song that opens Shogo Hamada’s acclaimed album J.BOY, released in September 1986.
Rather than depicting armed conflict between nations, the track portrays invisible threats lurking in terrorism, inequality, and information.
Many listeners may be struck by a worldview that seems to have foretold the present day.
The album featuring this song reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts for the first time in his career and won the Excellence Album Award at the 28th Japan Record Awards.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you want to reflect deeply on how society works and what true freedom really means.
Lesson 1Kagawa Ryo
A song whose gently conversational vocals and simple guitar tones sink deep into the heart.
In a time when the atmosphere encouraged fighting for one’s country, this work whispers, “Treasure life; it’s okay to run,” resonating as a universal ode to life that transcends the framework of anti-war.
Released as a single in July 1971 and included on the album ‘Lesson,’ the song’s message may be there to support you when you find yourself questioning the tide or wanting to reflect on the preciousness of peace.
The way homeYūki., Misu
Conceived under the theme “A Reiwa anti-war song created by those born in the 2000s,” this grand piece was crafted by singer Yuki and composer Misu.
The work portrays the folly of war and the preciousness of peace as seen through everyday, ordinary scenes.
It’s striking how the song gives voice to the complex emotions of today’s generation—the guilt surrounding a peace that rests on someone else’s sacrifice, and the helplessness of feeling unable to change anything.
The track was released in October 2024 as part of a music project.
If you listen when you want to rediscover the value of the everyday, it’s sure to resonate deeply with your heart.
Himeyuri ~Poem of the Lily~MONGOL800
Released on June 23, 2015, this song is by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.
June 23 is designated in Okinawa Prefecture as Memorial Day, a day to mourn those who died in the Battle of Okinawa.
Released on such an important day, the song centers on the keyword “Himeyuri,” as in its title.
Kiyosaku’s hope is for younger generations—who may not know much about the war—to learn this word and become aware of past events.
It’s a song that carries the meaning of passing the baton to the next generation: to pass down the stories of the past and envision a peaceful future.
blue skyTHE BLUE HEARTS
Released in 1989, this song was written and composed by Masatoshi Mashima.
The title “Aozora” is pronounced “aoi sora,” meaning “blue sky.” It has remained popular since its release and has been covered by many artists, including Yu Takahashi and Pistol Takehara.
Through the television screen, we learn that there are countries overseas where war and carrying guns are an everyday reality.
Beneath its gentle melody and simple words lies a profound message—making it a true classic.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
This is a beautiful, slow-tempo ballad and one of singer-songwriter Yo Hitoto’s signature songs.
While the song doesn’t directly address war, it was created in the wake of the September 11 attacks in the United States, and it carries a heartfelt wish for peace.
The lyrics depict someone praying for the happiness of a loved one, and the message overflowing with love is truly cleansing.
It makes you strongly feel, once again, “I wish war would disappear from this world, and that the people I cherish could live happily.”
[War Songs] Masterpieces that sing of the tragedy and folly of war (21–30)
Song of the Uzikariyushi 58
Released in 2006 by Kariyushi 58, an Okinawan band based in Okinawa known for their signature song “Anma,” “Uuji no Uta” takes its title from the Okinawan word “uuji,” meaning sugarcane.
The song portrays the reality of Okinawa, which has endured the horrors of war.
It expresses a journey from deep sorrow to hope for life, inspiring a forward-looking spirit.
It’s a masterpiece that conveys Okinawa’s history and a strong desire for peace.