Lovely Western music

[2026] A Collection of Western Songs That Include Japanese

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

If you’re a fan of Western music, there’s a good chance you’ve had the experience of suddenly hearing a familiar language—Japanese—pop up in the songs you usually listen to.

Just as Japanese artists sometimes write lyrics that mix English and Japanese, many Western artists intentionally incorporate Japanese lyrics into their songs.

In this article, we’ve put together a variety of tracks from different eras and genres that include Japanese.

We’ve tried to leave out songs that are simply Japanese-language versions of existing Western tracks, so you might discover some surprises like, “Wait, this song has Japanese lyrics too?”

【2026】A Collection of Western Songs Featuring Japanese (21–30)

Eve Of DestructionThe Chemical Brothers

The Chemical Brothers – Eve Of Destruction (Official Music Video)

Eve Of DestructionThe Chemical Brothers

In the 1990s, especially in Japan, The Chemical Brothers were known as one of the “Techno Big Three,” and to this day they command massive cross-genre influence.

In their 2019 track Eve of Destruction, many listeners were likely surprised to hear a Japanese rap verse partway through the song.

In fact, the track features NENE from Yurufuwa Gang, marking a remarkable first: The Chemical Brothers had never before included a Japanese artist on one of their albums.

Be sure to check it out, music video and all—it’s delightfully quirky!

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Harajuku GirlsGwen Stefani

Harajuku Girls

Harajuku GirlsGwen Stefani

Harajuku Girls, included on Gwen Stefani’s 2004 album Love.

Angel.

Music.

Baby., is a groundbreaking track inspired by Tokyo’s Harajuku culture.

Sprinkled with Japanese and woven with lyrics about distinctive fashion and subcultures, it’s simply wonderful.

While there has been criticism that it constitutes cultural appropriation, you can still strongly feel Gwen’s deep admiration and curiosity for Harajuku through the song.

Its exotic fusion of Japanese and Western elements makes it unforgettable after just one listen.

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[2026] Compilation of Western songs that include Japanese (31–40)

Mr. RobotoStyx

Styx – Mr. Roboto (Official Video)

Mr. RobotoStyx

The sudden appearance of Japanese sounds in Western music can feel fresh and unexpectedly delightful.

Styx’s 1983 release “Mr.

Roboto” is a prime example.

Inspired by Japan’s robot culture, songwriter Dennis DeYoung built the track around the Japanese phrase “dōmo arigato,” and it reportedly achieved high chart success at the time.

Its story—caught between technology and humanity—resonates deeply, while the Japanese sprinkled throughout the lyrics lends an exotic flavor.

It’s a one-of-a-kind classic by Styx that continues to be loved by many music fans, so if you’re looking for a recommended track, definitely give it a listen!

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In conclusion

When you put together songs under the theme of Western music that includes Japanese, you really start to see each artist’s individuality—it’s kind of interesting how you can get a feel for how each of them perceives the sound of Japanese.

Beyond the songs I introduced this time, you can find Western tracks with Japanese in some unexpected places, so if you’re interested, definitely dig deeper!