In our previous issue, some of our staff shared stories about their personal experiences with failure while living in and outside Japan. This time, our staff, both old and new, have recommended some of their favorite Japanese music – what better way to immerse yourself in a culture than to explore its music? They’ve also shared some short stories as to why each song is so special to them. What are some of your favorites? We hope you give these a listen and share your thoughts with us!
1. Tshego
- Artist: Mariya Takeuchi
- Song: Plastic love
- Genre: City Pop
- “I heard this on an 80’s Japanese city pop compilation, and haven’t looked back since. I would describe this song as light-hearted, old fashioned, fun. Whenever I play this song, it reminds me of a time and place in my life that I wish existed.”
2. Deanna
- Artist: UMI
- Song: Sukidakara /好きだから
- Genre: Rhythm and blues, Neo soul, R&B/Soul, Hip-Hop/Rap
- “I think the melody in this song is very mesmerizing and UMI’s voice is very soothing! I picked this specific song because I think it is fun when mixed race performers sing in multiple languages. UMI is a Black Japanese American singer so she sometimes sings in English and Japanese.”
- Artist: SHISHAMO
- Song: Natsu no koibito/夏の恋人
- Genre: JPop (Ballad)
- “This is probably my favorite karaoke song. Despite SHISHAMO being a Jpop group, this song is a ballad and the lyrics are quite melancholy. It expresses the feeling of not wanting to grow up and part with your childhood sweetheart, about wanting things to stay the same but knowing it cannot.”
3. Trevor
- Artist: Kyu Sakamoto
- Song: Sukiyaki (Ue o Muite Arukō / 上を向いて歩こう)
- Genre: Pop
- “This is a song from 1961 and it is amazing. If I had to pick my favorite Japanese song ever, this is it. The catchy, positive vibes match the uplifting and cheerful lyrics, and it is always a karaoke favorite that most Japanese people will love when you sing.”
4. Mia
- Artist: SHOW-YA
- Song: Genkai Lovers (限界 Lovers)
- Genre: Hard rock
- “Released on the 1989 album Outerlimits, this song has all the classic vibes of late ‘80/early ‘90s hard rock and metal. Keiko Terada’s impressive vocals mixed with the band’s powerful riffs and strong beat make for a song that any fan of this era will be sure to love.”
5. Ronnie
- Artist: Official HIGE DANdism
- Song: アポトーシス（Apoptosis)
- Genre: Pop
“Basing their name on the English word “Dandy”, this 2012 group from Shimane has become quite a hit in Japan. Their newest song Apoptosis became one of my favorite songs because of the amazing beat and vocals. I love their use of unique English words to make such catchy tunes!”