[2026] A Collection of Western Songs That Include Japanese

Believe MeLil Wayne (ft.Drake)

Believe Me

Did you know that a collaborative track by Lil Wayne from the United States and Drake from Canada actually slips in a Japanese word? Released in May 2014, the song features the two rappers boldly proclaiming their success and what it’s worth.

In particular, Drake’s chorus exudes confidence as he declares that he’s one of a kind and irreplaceable.

What’s especially interesting is that Lil Wayne weaves Japanese into his verse.

There’s also a striking moment where he boasts about owning two Ferraris, a memorable vignette that symbolizes his success.

It’s a must-listen for hip-hop fans—a classic that radiates the duo’s friendship and mutual respect.

Gomenasait.A.T.u.

t.A.T.u. – Gomenasai

In Japan, the Russian duo t.A.T.u., remembered—for better or worse—for the last‑minute cancellation controversy, released “Gomenasai,” a heartwarming ballad, in 2006.

While they write an apology between themselves, what stands out—as the title suggests—is their inclusion of the Japanese word gomen nasai (“I’m sorry”).

It’s unusual to hear Japanese in Western pop, but in this song it feels as if it’s naturally present.

That, in turn, gives the piece a conversational kind of strength.

Like MeLil Tracy

Yung Bruh – Like Me

Lil Tracy, born in 1995 and hailing from Virginia, is known as a highly influential artist in the SoundCloud rap scene.

Released in June 2015 under the name “Yung Bruh,” this track is one of his early works, yet it offers a glimpse into the roots of his current style.

While built on a trap beat, it features a melodic flow that incorporates elements of emo and punk, leaving a strong impression.

The lyrics highlight his individuality and lifestyle, expressing his confidence and self-affirmation throughout, powerfully advocating the importance of living true to oneself.

The track pairs perfectly with a beat produced by DBbeatz, and it even slips in some Japanese lyrics.

Be sure to check it out.

What The F***Rise of the North Star

RISE OF THE NORTHSTAR – What The F*** (Official Music Video)

A signature track by France’s crossover metal powerhouse, Rise of the Northstar, where razor-sharp Japanese lyrics ride over an intense sound.

Drawing wide-ranging influence from ’90s NY hardcore to hip-hop, the band’s deep love for Japanese manga culture—especially Fist of the North Star—comes through vividly in both their lyrics and visuals.

Featured on their 2014 album Welcame, this song is defined by aggressive guitar riffs and powerful vocals that forge a hard-hitting attack.

Their performances, complete with school-uniform-inspired outfits, are another highlight.

It’s perfect for blasting when you’re stressed or need a reset—the sheer force will energize you.

It’s also an ideal track to hype up a crowd, especially when you’re with foreign fans who love Japanese culture.

Wifey Riddim 4AJ Tracey

AJ Tracey – Wifey Riddim 4 (Official Video)

Against the backdrop of Tokyo’s cityscape, the artist who released a track skillfully incorporating Japanese is London-born rapper AJ Tracey.

Released in December 2023, his work captivates with a distinctive style that fuses grime and sinogrime.

The music video, shot in Tokyo, has also drawn attention, seamlessly blending anime-inspired visuals with the city’s neon streets.

In this song, he expresses sincere feelings about love, conveying the importance of a deep bond with a special partner.

By contrasting past romantic experiences with his current relationship, he highlights positive changes and hope for the future—an approach that is sure to resonate with many.

The track has become popular in clubs and at festivals and is highly regarded within the UK dance scene.

Aisumasen (I’m Sorry)John Lennon

Aisumasen (I’m Sorry) (Remastered 2010)

The moment when you can’t help but lean in to listen to a song that weaves Japanese and English together.

The legendary British artist John Lennon sent a poignant message of apology to his wife, Yoko, in a track from his 1973 album Mind Games that bore a Japanese title.

Even the song’s name—an English-style rendering of the phrase “sumimasen,” meaning “I’m sorry” or “excuse me”—conveys Lennon’s sincerity.

Created during a period when the couple’s relationship had cooled and they were living apart, the song quietly resonates with a candid acknowledgment of his mistakes and a plea for forgiveness.

Its melancholic melody, blending blues and soft rock, speaks more powerfully than words of his regret and love.

It’s a track that deeply touches the heart—especially for those struggling with relationships or seeking to reflect on their bonds with loved ones.

Yuko and HiroBlur

Blur – Yuko and Hiro (Official Audio)

Yuko and Hiro, a song by the renowned British band Blur, is included on their 1995 album The Great Escape, and it’s memorable for the unexpected Japanese that pops up in the English lyrics.

It has the distinctive feel of a Blur track, reflecting the deep bond they’ve been known to share with Japanese fans since the Britpop boom of the ’90s, though from a modern perspective the lyrics might come across as a bit odd—that’s part of the charm.

They also performed this song on Live at the Budokan, an album released exclusively in Japan in 1996, so be sure to check it out.