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Western classic songs covered by Japanese artists. Hit songs rediscovered through Japanese-language covers.

How many examples can you think of where a Western hit song became a massive success in Japan after being covered with Japanese lyrics? In fact, there are more cases than you might expect where that tune you casually hum is actually a Japanese cover of a song by an overseas artist.

While preserving the original melody’s charm, the Japanese lyrics breathe new life into the music, and many of these works continue to be loved across generations.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of especially famous covers, as well as surprising hits that make you think, “Wait, this was originally a Western song?” Enjoy tracing the roots of the songs you know!

Western pop classics covered by Japanese artists: Hit songs rediscovered through Japanese-language covers (81–90)

Human NatureMiura Daichi

A hit song by Michael Jackson, one of the most famous artists.

Daichi Miura included this song as the B-side of his first single.

He also performed it on stage to commemorate the release of the film “Michael Jackson: The Face of the King of Pop.” The original lyrics were based on a conversation between Steve Porcaro and his young daughter Heather, and were later rewritten by professional songwriter John Bettis into lyrics inspired by pedestrians in New York.

HATSUMI
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Time After TimeMakihara Noriyuki

Time After Time is a timeless classic, cherished by many for its beautiful, resonant melody and wistful message.

In Japan, numerous artists have covered the song, and Noriyuki Makihara’s rendition, included on “Listen To The Music 2,” is a standout.

His gentle yet powerful vocals and delicate arrangement bring out the original’s charm to the fullest.

Said to have been born from the emotional distance between lovers, the song conveys the enduring strength of love that continues even when two people are apart.

Why not let Makihara’s voice, filled with tenderness for someone dear, bring you comfort as well?

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Here Comes The SunHarada Tomoyo

The original is a classic by the Beatles, but Tomoyo Harada’s cover shines with a special brilliance of its own.

The lyrics, which evoke a hopeful future with the arrival of spring, gain even greater persuasion through her gentle vocals.

In 2023, to mark the 40th anniversary of her debut, Harada included this song on her cover album “Love Story 4: Musical Flight.” Set against a mellow acoustic sound, her vocals transcend language barriers and resonate deeply—an absolute must-hear.

Signaling the end of winter and hinting at new beginnings, this song is as tender as a spring breeze and will make you feel like taking a step forward with your face turned to the future.

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Baby LoveEvery Little Thing

When I listen to this song, I’m overwhelmed with the feeling of “I want to see her right now!” It’s a love song filled with emotions that make you think, “I want to stay by the side of the person I cherish forever and ever.” If you haven’t heard it yet, please give it a listen.

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Change the worldCHEMISTRY

I’d listened to the original many times.

But when I first heard the cover, I couldn’t really appreciate how good it was.

After growing up and getting the chance to listen again, its true quality came through.

I didn’t understand the meaning of the song as a child, but now that I’m an adult, it’s a track I can confidently recommend.

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