MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Spotify: Follow Us
Japanese Female Artists You Should Be Listening To
Our list this week focuses on strong Japanese female artists, many of whom are active not only in Japan but overseas too. We’ve no doubt you’ll discover someone you’ll love.
Listen Here: Japanese Female Artists You Should Be Listening To
GARNiDELiA – Gokuraku Jodo
Gokuraku Jodo is the most viewed video in GARNiDELiA’s series of dance videos for their music on YouTube. It has over 60 million views and has been a huge hit across Asia. We felt the music and the video expresses Japanese culture, so we included it on the list.
We also interviewed GARNiDELiA here: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/196951
WEDNESDAY CAMPANELLA – Melos
WEDNESDAY CAMPANELLA is known for theming their music around a particular historical figure or story and putting their own unique sound and spin on it. Melos is based on the short story Run, Melos! from 1940 by Osamu Dazai, one of the most famous Japanese writers of the 20th century. The song’s grand music video is a sight to behold, filmed entirely in Mongolia.
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu – “Cherry Bon Bon”
Taken from Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s mini album Moshi Moshi Harajuku, the track Cherry Bon Bon is classic and popular hit amongst fans from Kyary’s early days. KPP often performs it live. It’s one of those addictive tunes you find yourself humming along to before you realise it!
DAOKO – “Yume Miteta no Atashi”
Both Yume Miteta no Atashi and another song entitled Samishii Kami-sama were featured in an animated music video entitled GIRL, which is considered a sequel or part of the universe for the famous animated music video ME!ME!ME which was a huge hit in the West and also features singing by DAOKO. The Yume Miteta no Atashi part of this music video isn’t featured on YouTube however, but the Samishii Kama-sama section is, so you can check that out above too.
Mizuki Nana – Shin’ai
Shin’ai was used as the opening theme for the anime adaptation of the visual novel White Album. Mizuki Nana pours out all of her emotions in this songーher voice slowly soaks into the depths of your soul.
Perfume – “FLASH”
What has gone on to become a song synonymous with one of Japan’s most famous J-pop groups, FLASH was used as the main theme for the first two parts of the Chihayafuru film trilogy. Perfume’s dance choreography in the music video sees them pull out their kung fu skills.
Aimyon – “Marigold”
Aimyon is making her huge break in Japan right now, and that in part can be credited to this very song Marigold. It hails as the first song by a Japanese artist to be streamed over 100 million times, and the music video has nearly 170 million views, making it one of Aimyon’s hit tracks.
Superfly – “Ai o Komete Hanataba o”
Though it was released back in 2008, this love song by Superfly is still the go-to at many weddings in Japan. Shiho Ochi’s powerful vocals really shine through on this one.
LiSA – “crossing field”
If you were to make a playlist of the most well-known anime themes, this one would absolutely be on thereーthe first opening theme for the internationally loved anime series Sword Art Online. Though it’s a song about fighting, something echoed in the music’s full-on sound, it’s also about trusting your comrades.
Hikaru Utada – “Hikari”
The song that started it all. This track is known to every Kingdom Hearts fan out there. It’s the Japanese version of the theme song for the very first game which launched first in Japan back in 2002. The English version is Simple & Clean. Both versions of the songs were also officially remixed and released digitally 15 years later as Ray of Hope Mix. The original track reached No. 1 in nine countries when it was released, including Japan.
Sakura Fujiwara – “Kawaii”
Sakura Fujiwara sing of love’s embrace from the perspective of a pure girl in her teens. The fun music video sees a tiny Sakura climbing up to see a giant version of the guy she likesーhis enormity a representation of how big love can feel.
Charisma.com – “#hashdark”
This catchy and infectious song is about how we use hashtags on social media. The music video sees the duo travelling to hot spots around Tokyo which are always seen posted on social media along with hashtags.
Minami – “Lilac”
The straightforward lyrics of this song are enough to make one’s heart tremble as they centre on how it can be difficult to express your feelings to those close to your heart, and how hard life can be.
Aimer – “Chouchou Musubi”
Produced by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, Aimer’s ballad Chouchou Musubi interlaces moving lyrics with heart throbbing music. Noda himself also features in the chorus.
ReoNa – “forget-me-not”
Another Sword Art Online makes it on the list, and this time it’s the second ending theme for Sword Art Online: Alicization. The song has a sound that almost brings back a sense of nostalgia. It’s an uptempo and feelsy number that conveys the world of the anime series.
Did you enjoy our picks for this week’s Japanese Female Artists You Should Be Listening To? Our next playlist will be centred on the top theme songs picks for the new spring season of anime. We’ll be posting a new playlist every week, so be sure to follow us on Spotify.
Information
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/user/krca7ywu6jcpb1tq06kahck5z?si=xsvfjT9aQGWzBL0gdll2SQ
#MMNPlaylist #MMN #MOSHIMOSHINIPPON
RELATED ENTRIES
-
If you love music from Japan, then be sure to follow MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON on Spotify. We post music playlists with a different theme each week, so if you can't get enough of Japanese music, then we'd love to have you on board! MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Spotify: Follow Us
This Week's Theme: 'Top Anime Theme Songs of Winter 2021'
We have compiled a list of songs from the Winter 2021 anime list which includes series that have just started as well as series set to begin in January 2021. You'll see some big series names on here, and perhaps some you weren't aware of!YOASOBI - "Kaibutsu"
The opening theme for season two of BEASTARS. Shinsei Kamattechan - "Boku no Sensō” ('My War')
This is the opening theme song for the final season of Attack on Titan. This is the second theme song to be performed by Shinsei Kamattechan since the season two. A chaotic number which perfectly foreshadows the excitement welling up in the final season. TREASURE - “BEAUTIFUL"
The ending theme song for the episodes of Black Clover which started airing on January 5, 2021. The opening theme song is performed by Snow Man.Kiro Akiyama - “Identity"
The opening theme song for season two of The Promised Neverland which started airing on January 7, 2021. BAND-MAID - “Different"
BAND-MAID’s new song Different is the opening theme song for Log Horizon: Destruction of the Round Table. The ending theme is Blue Horizon by Miyu Oshiro. LiSA - “dawn"
dawn by LiSA is the opening theme song for the anime Back Arrow which celebrates its debut on air this month. Check out the trailer above. Ikimonogakari - “BAKU"
The opening theme song for the episodes of BORUTO- NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS which are airing this month. Ikimonogakari previously performed two theme songs for the Naruto Shippuuden series. Their song BAKU has been specifically written for the BORUTO series. Akihito Okano - "Hikari Are"
The opening theme for the highly-anticipated fourth season of The Seven Deadly Sins. The ending theme is time by SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:ReoNa. Fujifabric - "Rakuen"
The opening theme for Dr. Stone: Stone Wars which is the second season of Dr. Stone. The ending theme is Koe? by Hatena. TRUE - "Storyteller"
The opening theme for the upcoming second season of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. Yuiko Ohara - "Tabibito no Uta"
The opening theme for the upcoming anime series Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation. Yuiko Ohara will also perform the ending song. Riko Azuna - "keep weaving your spider way"
The opening theme for the upcoming anime series So I'm a Spider, So What? The ending theme is Gambare! Kumoko-san by Aoi Yuki. Did you enjoy this week's theme? We post a variety of different genres each week, including J-pop lists, so give us a follow and join us so we can all share our love of music from Japan. -
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
Japanese New Year’s Playlist
I think we can all agree 2020 has been a ride. Here’s a special selection of tracks to sign off the year and welcome 2021.[Alexandros] - “12/26 Ikou no Nenmatsu”
This song sings about that feeling after Christmas in the run up to the New Year as you realise there’s only a little bit of time left before the year ends.NMB48 - “December 31st”
The title of this song translates to December 31st, or New Year’s Eve. It’s a feelsy and sentimental track for looking back over the past year and getting ready for the next. Remioromen - “Oomisoka no Uta”
A famous Japanese New Year’s track with a beautiful melody that really hits you hard, even if you don’t understand the Japanese lyrics. Yumi Matsutoya - “A HAPPY NEW YEAR”
This song has a sad-sounding melody but the lyrics are filled with positivity, the kind of feeling you want to start the New Year with. ELLEGARDEN - "New Year’s Day"
This song overflows with the heart-rending feeling of New Year's Eve. It’ll soon become a yearly tradition for you to listen to this song at the end of each year.Chatmonchy - "Sekai ga Owaru Yoru ni"
The title of this song translates to "On The Night The World Ends" and that is exactly how the end of the year may feel to some as they leave their old selves behind and delve deep into the world of soul-searching.Kyary Pamyu Pamyu - “Furisodeshon"
At the start of each year, Japan holds coming-of-age ceremonies for young people who have just turned 20. This song, which is about coming-of-age, was released when Kyary Pamyu Pamyu turned 20. back number - "Happy End”
This is a great track for celebrating the end of the year. It has a melancholic melody and lyrics, but it has that yearning for things to turn out right, which is relevant to the madness that has been 2020. Here’s to a better 2021. Masaharu Fukuyama - “Kokoro color ~ a song for the wonderful year ~”
If you’re wanting to look towards the New Year with positivity then this really happy and uplifting track is one to check out. Gospellers - "A HAPPY NEW YEAR"
This is a cover of Yumi Matsutoya’s A HAPPY NEW YEAR which was introduced earlier in the playlist. Their comforting voices will melt away the cold of winter and warm your heart. What did you think of our New Year’s playlist? We’ll be bringing you another playlist soon but for now, have a wonderful New Year! -
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
J-Pop Christmas Vibes For 2020
Christmas is right around the corner, which means all of the same old Christmas songs will be played non-stop everywhere! Change things up a bit with our festive curation of J-pop tracks that are a celebration of the holiday season and wintertime.LiSA×Uru - “Saikai” (produced by Ayase)
This song was written by YOASOBI’s composer Ayase. The song was also recorded on THE FIRST TAKE ー a YouTube channel which records famous artists performing songs in the first take without being edited. amazarashi - “Christmas"
The piano melody reflects the cold of winter and creates an image of falling snow. Make sure to check out the official video which uses 3DCG animation. back number - "Christmas Song"
If you're looking for Christmas vibes, this Christmas song will get you in the festive spirit straight away. You'll be swaying to the swing beat in no time. Noriyuki Makihara - "Fuyu Ga Hajimaru Yo"
The jolly beat and catchy hook will have you singing along in no time. Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE - "Fuyu Monogatari"
An emotional winter song perfect for those times you want to reflect on the year that has gone by so fast. GReeeeN - "Yuki No Ne"
Another winter song which creates the magical image of snowfall. When you hear the powerful and passionate chorus, you won't be able to stop yourself from wanting to sing along. BUMP OF CHICKEN - "Merry Christmas"
A relaxing song with nostalgic Christmas vibes. The beautiful guitar accompaniment will fill you with warmth. Hikaru Utada - “Can’t Wait ‘Til Christmas”
A Christmas love song written by Hikaru Utada whose voice is beautiful on every single song of hers. Sayaka Kanda, Natsuki Inaba, Sumire Morohoshi - “Do You Want to Build a Snowman? - Japanese Version”
This one needs no introduction. The Japanese version of the classic song from Disney’s ‘Frozen.’ KICK THE CAN CREW - "Kurisumasu. Ibu Rap" (Christmas Eve Rap)
If you're looking for a relaxing rap with Christmas vibes, this is your song.HYADAIN - “Kurisumasu? Nani Sore? Oishii no?”
The music and lyrics of this song are incredibly fun and hilarious, you’re sure to crack up when the real song drops after the soothing introduction. Momoiro Clover Z - “Santa-san”
A faced-paced J-pop fest dedicated to the man himself, Santa Claus. GIRLFRIEND - “Christmas Magic”
This Christmas song is written by the all-female J-pop/rock band GIRLFRIEND and is a feel-good one to say the least. What did you think of this week’s picks? We wish you a Merry Christmas and hope you stick around for next week’s playlist! -
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
Japanese Sad Vibes Playlist
Let’s face it, 2020 has been a tough year. We’ve all had our ups and downs, and sometimes when you’re feeling sad, you want a song that captures that feeling to vibe to. Here’s a selection of feelsy tracks for when you’re feeling sad.Aimer - “Anatani Deawanakereba Kasetsutouka”
Aimer has a lot of sad-sounding songs, and this is a really feelsy one. You can hear it in her voice. Its title roughly translates to ‘If I’m Unable to See You - Summer, Winter, and Autumn Flowers.” Nujabes - “Dawn on the Side”
From the third and final album ‘Spiritual State’ by Nujabes, there’s something about this instrumental song that is hauntingly beautiful, sad, and nostalgic all at the same time.Hikaru Utada - “Don’t Think Twice”
This song is the official English version of Utada’s song ‘Chikai,’ both of which are main theme songs for the video game Kingdom Hearts III. It has really sad lyrics which are sung beautifully as always by Utada.Rude-α - “LIFE”
This song became a hit as the ending theme for the anime series ‘Dr. Stone.’ Another great track to vibe to that can make you feel a whirlpool of different emotions: happy, sad, and nostalgic all at the same time. Nujabes - "Rainyway Back Home"
A peaceful song with nostalgic vibes. Listening to it will send you on a journey back to your childhood home. If you want to stay focussed while studying or working, this song is sure to calm you down.C&K - "Y"
The letter "Y" symbolises two lovers going their separate ways. A heartbreaking song that reflects on the good times and shows hopes for meeting again to walk the same path together. Sohta feat. Eve - "Ikanaide"
Originally by Sohta, this song has been covered by a range of artists. The song title translates to "don't go" and talks about the heart-wrenching feeling of walking your lover to the train station and watching them leave, trying to be brave. The song can be interpreted in a number of ways, including the passing of a loved one. Galileo Galilei - "Arigatō, Gomen ne"
The song literally translates to "Thank you, I'm Sorry". A relaxing song with comforting vibes perfect for self-reflection.alan - "Ikiru"
A beautiful piece sung by alan. Her gentle, soothing voice harmonises perfectly with the elegant instrumental accompaniment. Shota Tezuka - "Aitai Yo"
A passionate song about aching to meet someone. The beautiful piano accompaniment makes the song even more emotional.MINMI - “Shiki no Uta”
This song became a hit as the ending theme for the anime series ‘Samurai Champloo.’ Despite the track not being played commercially overseas, it has become loved the world over, even amongst those who aren’t anime fans.XAAXAA - “yukidokei”
This song is about the feelings and memories that you’re left with after a break-up. The vocals and music are both beautiful and powerful. D=OUT - "Senko Hanabi"
A song by the visual-kei rock band D=OUT. The vocals and music are nothing short of beautiful. Eir Aoi - "Close Friend"
Eir Aoi's powerful and emotional voice is just what you need when you want to sing along passionately.Shoko Nakagawa - "RAY OF LIGHT"
Well-known as the fifth ending theme song for the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood anime series, this is another passionate song to sing your heart out to. What did you think of this week’s picks? If you enjoyed them, make sure to stick around as we’ll be posting a new playlist every week. -
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
Japanese Songs For Concentration & Focus
If you’re the type to concentrate better with music on in the background, whether you’re studying or working, then we’ve got a playlist for you. Even better if you’re a fan of music from Japan!RADWIMPS - "Nandemonaiya - movie ver."
This song was written for the box office hit movie Your Name. The relaxing piano melodies and soothing vocals is just what you need to concentrate.Kan Sano - "On My Way Home"
A soothing piano song with no vocals. This calming track will keep you relaxed so you can get on with your work. Suchmos - "MINT"
A more upbeat song to give you energy. The funky bassline sets the pace for the freestyle guitar melodies. chelmico - "Zurui ne"
chelmico's chill café vibes are just what you need to concentrate. The rhythmic vocals will help you to stay focussed on the task at hand. LUCK TAPES feat. kojikoji - "BLUE feat. kojikoji"
Another chill song to switch on when you're feeling your concentration levels drop. The gentle vocal harmonies and light drumbeat set the tone for a day of stress-free work. pinoko feat. KEN TIN MIN - "Sunday"
The catchy hooks, rhythm and freestyle piano melodies will instantly put you in a good mood, motivating you to work hard. Rainych - "Say So - Japanese Version"
Indonesian YouTuber Rainych took the world by storm by releasing a Japanese cover of the Doja Cat's song Say So. Her dreamy kawaii voice will lift your spirit instantly. Nujabes - “Rainyway Back Home”
A chilled, laid-back tune that fills you with an overwhelming sense of nostalgia, like returning to the home you used to live at. Pretty much every track by Nujabes is great to have on in the background while working.Masayoshi Soken - “Crimson Sunset”
A classic track from the Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood soundtrack, and a very Japanese-y one at that. Its quiet melody is perfect for concentration.Boku no Lyric no Boyomi - “Asayoke to Nettaigyo”
The gentle vocals and gorgeous music will put you in the zone to get done what needs to get done. Asako Toki - “mellow yellow”
Like the song title suggests, this is a mellow, soft-sounding song so is an easy listen when you’re concentrating.Mizuki Ohira - “Ikareta Baby”
The funky, smooth, and feel-good sound is sure to fill you with motivation and in turn increase your concentration. ASOBOiSM - “UCHOTEN (feat. TACK)”
Another smooth-sounding track with eargasmic bars you can just tune out to. kiki vivi lily - “80denier”
This song has a groovy sound and distinct rhythm that makes it another great listen for work. So, what did you think? Stay tuned as we’ll be bringing you a new playlist of Japanese songs every week! -
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON is now on Spotify, and every week, we plan to post a new playlist with a different theme, focusing on music from Japan. If you love J-music, or are new to J-music, be sure to give us a follow.
Japanese Songs to Feel Refreshed in the Morning
If you woke up feeling refreshed this morning, here’s a playlist of Japanese songs for you to switch on to enhance that feeling as you enjoy your morning coffee.Aimer - "We Two"
Aimer's delicate voice contrasts with the passionate rhythm of the electric guitar. A heavenly combination to wake up your brain in the morning. DAOKO - “Hajimemashite no Kimochi o”
DAOKO never fails to make a catchy song. This song has that refreshing feeling to it, but also has a hint of melancholy to it. Yorushika - “Dakara Boku wa Ongaku o Yameta”
This one also has a brisk melancholy to it but is nothing short of refreshing. [Alexandros] - “Gesshoku Horizon”
You just can’t get enough of the jaunty guitar and rhythm of this one. Perfect as a morning track. Cidergirl - “Evergreen”
This fast paced rock tune gives you that same kind of uplifting, freeing feeling like a shonen anime opening theme. sanari - "Prince"
A chill song with refreshing vibes. The gentle beat of the drums and sanari's smooth voice is just what you want to hear in the morning. Eito - "Right Now"
Just hearing the simple acoustic guitar chords and simple melody will have you humming along in no time. DREAMS COME TRUE - “Haretara Iine”
A happy sounding song that sets you up for the day with positive vibes. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu - "Sai & Co"
If you are looking for some encouragement to start your day, an upbeat song by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is just what you need. livetune feat. Hatsune Miku - "Yellow - Re:Dialed"
Another upbeat song to brighten your morning. Plunge into Hatsune Miku's bright and colourful world.Official HIGE DANdism - “No Doubt”
The vocals and melody of the happy-sounding keyboard are sure to make you feel good in the morning. KANA-BOON - "Wake up"
An energy-filled KANA-BOON song will provide you with the energy to get on with your day. SUPER BEAVER - “Yokan”
Another feel-good rock song, and despite being a rock tune, is easy to listen to even in the mornings. L'Arc~en~Ciel - "READY STEADY GO"
A rock song to provide you with the energy to get up and get on with your day. The raspy vocals blend perfectly with the guitar melodies. What did you think of this week’s picks? Stay tuned as we’ll be bringing you a new playlist to discover every week.