“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 (21–30)
Child of the devilHiguchi Ai
“Child of Evil” carries a poignant yet straightforward message about unending conflict.
Released in 2022 by singer-songwriter Ai Higuchi, who is known for songs that depict life and love from a unique perspective, it resonates with a grand, dramatic band sound.
It portrays sorrow over devastating war and love for those dear to us, and its lyrics about the difficulty of living invite spontaneous empathy.
Now, as more people belong to generations with no direct experience of war, this song reminds us of the importance of passing down history and memory.
Fight the nightONE OK ROCK
ONE OK ROCK’s “Fight the night” embodies both the tragedy of war and the strength to keep fighting.
Released in 2015 on the album 35XXXV, the song is infused with a passion to push through any darkness, stirring the listener’s heart.
From the tension you feel in the intro to Taka’s powerful vocals, it’s as if the song gives voice to pain that can’t be put into words.
It inspires courage to confront the senselessness of war in people of all ages, especially young listeners.
[War Songs] Masterpieces that sing of the misery and folly of war (31–40)
camphor treeFukuyama Masaharu
This song was created by Masaharu Fukuyama with heartfelt feelings for Nagasaki, which is both his hometown and a city that suffered the atomic bombing.
On August 9, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped, turning Nagasaki into a burned-out wasteland; yet, miraculously, two camphor trees survived the flames and recovered.
The torii gate mentioned in the lyrics, left standing with only one side, also actually exists.
Listening closely to this song—which expresses the sense of duty and mission inspired by those things that kept living and standing despite unimaginable damage—there is much that resonates even with those of us who have never experienced war.
Distant Christmassadamasashi
Even at Christmas, a time that should be filled with happiness, thoughts turn to war…
This song portrays that contradiction and inner conflict.
While questioning what is just, the repeated phrase “Merry Christmas” evokes the warped nature of the world.
The End of SummerMoriyama Naotaro
This is the kind of song I want to listen to at summer’s end, when the days start growing shorter little by little and you notice the coolness of the mornings and evenings.
Naotaro Moriyama himself has called it an “anti-war song,” and it was released on August 20, 2003.
The feeling—like a prayer—of simply wanting to see someone dear is achingly sorrowful and beautifully resonant.
Beyond its lyrical poetry, the intro opens with a falsetto that sounds like a stringed instrument, and the elegantly unfolding chorus is breathtaking.
Let yourself be immersed in its world, like a hometown for the heart, gently keeping you company in the sadness of wanting to see someone you cannot meet.
Rain of Time, The Final WarOrangestar
This song sharply captures the tragedy and folly of war.
Orangestar’s delicate sensibility is expressed through a clear, piano-centered sound.
By portraying the conflict between good and evil and the senselessness of unending war from a personal perspective, it resonates deeply with many listeners.
Included in the mini-album “Unreleased OSC,” released in November 2016, this track has been highly praised as a piece that symbolizes Orangestar’s musical diversity.
It’s recommended for those seeking a catalyst to think about war and social issues, as well as for anyone who wants to enjoy profound lyrics and melodies that speak to the heart.
Ryukyu Love SongMONGOL800
A track included on the album MESSAGE, MONGOL800’s signature work and a landmark that continues to shine in the Japanese rock scene.
While it carries a wish for peace, it also conveys their love for their home of Okinawa.
It’s a song filled with prompts to reflect on peace—feelings for one’s loved ones and questions like “What can I do for others?” At the same time, the song itself features the band’s characteristic bright, catchy melody and Kiyosaku’s powerful, piercing vocals, resulting in a comfortable, mid-tempo rock tune.
