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!
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Classic Western hits covered by Japanese artists: hit songs rediscovered through Japanese-language covers (1–10)
Just The Way You AreATSUSHI（EXILE ）
This song is the world’s first cover of Bruno Mars’s iconic ballad.
While expressing his respect for Bruno Mars as one of the most musically gifted and talented artists in the world, ATSUSHI thought that if this masterpiece could be sung in Japanese, its warm message might reach even more hearts in Japan.
He therefore wrote new Japanese lyrics and recorded a cover.
Preserving the atmosphere of the original, the song showcases ATSUSHI’s gentle, resonant vocals.
See You AgainTEE
A deeply moving track: a Japanese cover by TEE, a singer-songwriter from Hiroshima.
This world-famous hit originally by Wiz Khalifa is rendered in Japanese lyrics, made even more approachable through TEE’s sensibility.
Included on TEE’s 7th-anniversary cover album, “Masterpiece ~The World Best Covers~,” the song pairs its touching lyrics—written in memory of a departed friend—with a gently paced, beautifully melodic ballad arrangement.
It’s a heartfelt message about the sorrow of losing someone you love, and the hope that you’ll meet again someday.
A gem of a cover filled with profound love—perfect for listening while remembering someone dear.
U.S.ADA PUMP
Despite its cool choreography, the music video is delightfully “tacky,” and with its unforgettable, quirky lyrics, “U.S.A.” became a nationwide smash hit.
Many of you have probably tried copying the dance in the chorus, right? It’s a cover of a song by Italian singer Joe Yellow.
While the overall vibe of both versions is almost the same, the original lyrics express a man’s passionate feelings for the person he loves.
Both tracks are irresistible mood-lifters, so be sure to listen and compare!
Western pop classics covered by Japanese artists. Hit songs rediscovered through Japanese covers (11–20)
The Road ~Don’t Look Back In Anger~LUV and SOUL
A jewel-like cover song delivered by a Japanese R&B vocal group.
They brilliantly reinterpret a classic left behind by a legendary British band with Japanese lyrics.
Centered on themes of life’s journey and self-discovery, this piece sings of hope for the future.
Sophisticated harmonies and emotionally rich vocals draw out the original’s charm in a fresh way.
Released as a single in March 2012, it marked a new challenge for the group.
The lyrics convey a universal message that anyone can relate to: the importance of looking forward and living without being bound by the past.
Paired with heartfelt vocals, it’s a track that resonates and energizes you for tomorrow.
SEPTEMBERLittle Glee Monster
Little Glee Monster’s cover of Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic “SEPTEMBER” is a wonderful track that movingly sings of the deep bond between love and memory.
Their clear, luminous vocals and beautiful harmonies superbly capture the lyrical world that dwells on September as a special month.
Among the diverse covers on the album titled “juice,” this song shines particularly bright—perfect for this time of year.
It’s a lovely cover that gently seeps into the listener’s heart, awakening warm memories with a loved one or someone dear.
With Little Glee Monster’s signature vocal richness and inventive arrangement shining throughout, it’s a track to savor on these long autumn nights.
Moon RiverTeshima Aoi
Moon River, covered by Japanese singer-songwriter Aoi Teshima, whose transparent, luminous voice is her hallmark, is a timeless classic that captivates dreamers’ hearts.
Originally featured in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s and memorably sung by Audrey Hepburn, the song’s lyrics—about the adventurous spirit of crossing an imaginary river into the unknown and the value of cherished friendship—gently move listeners.
Teshima included her cover on her 2021 all-time best album, Simple is best.
The exquisite harmony woven from her clear vocals and the beautiful melody makes it perfect for nighttime listening.
It’s a song especially worth hearing for anyone longing to be absorbed in something they love.
Melancholy CasablancaGō Hiromi
Set to a sweet, bittersweet melody, Hiromi Go’s “Aishu no Casablanca” is a Japanese-lyric cover of an original song by Bertie Higgins, S.
Limbo, and J.
Healy that eloquently sings of the sorrow of heartbreak.
Evoking a scene from the film Casablanca, the lyrics depict a man who vividly recalls happier days yet must accept the reality that there is no going back.
Released in 1982, the song was a hit both as a single and on the album, and it was also featured in a Suntory “Akadama Punch” commercial.
It’s a classic ballad that anyone who has felt the sting of lost love can relate to.