Songs from Whisper of the Heart: theme song and insert songs
This time, we’re featuring the theme song and insert songs from the Studio Ghibli film “Whisper of the Heart.” When you think of “Whisper of the Heart,” it has to be “Country Road,” right? That melody that makes you want to hum it without thinking.
For those who’ve seen the film, it’s an especially memorable song.
The bittersweet relationship between the protagonists, Shizuku and Seiji Amasawa.
Just writing this introduction makes me want to watch it again.
If you listen to the songs collected in this article, I’m sure you’ll feel the same.
Songs from Whisper of the Heart. Theme song and insert songs (1–10)
Take Me Home, Country RoadsOlivia Newton-John
Take Me Home, Country Roads, released by John Denver in 1971.
It’s featured in this work as an insert song.
The original is sung by John Denver, and Olivia Newton-John is a cover artist.
In the film, Shizuku works on the Japanese lyrics for this song, right? The ending theme sung by Youko Honna, who plays Shizuku, is famous as well, so be sure to give that a listen too!
concrete roadLake Youth Choir
When you think of Whisper of the Heart, it has to be this song! It’s John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” with lyrics that Shizuku rewrote for a chorus performance in the film.
The scene where Seiji Amasawa criticizes her unique “Concrete Road” lyric adaptation and Shizuku shouts, “You’re so mean!” is incredibly famous.
A truly iconic moment.
Baron's SongYuji Nomi
Baron the Cat, an imaginary character created by Shizuku in Whisper of the Heart.
In her world of imagination, this is the piece in which he leads her into an even deeper realm of fantasy.
It is used in a rare scene featuring unreal imagery within this work, which is otherwise set in a notably realistic world.
Country RoadYoko Honna
It is both the ending theme and the main theme of “Whisper of the Heart.” The original song is John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” which also serves as the film’s opening theme.
In the story, it is established that the protagonist, Shizuku, wrote these Japanese lyrics, and the encounters that occur during the process of creating them set the story in motion.
For these reasons, this song can be considered a key element within the work.
Hill TownYuji Nomi
This piece depicts the scenery and environment of the town situated on the hill where Shizuku Tsukishima, the protagonist of Whisper of the Heart, lives.
It may appear unremarkable at first glance, yet small changes unfold day by day.
It’s a poignant track that feels like a snapshot of a moment from youth.
Flowing Clouds, Shining HillYuji Nomi
A truly flawless and beautiful orchestral and piano piece titled “Drifting Clouds, Shining Hills.” While the model for Whisper of the Heart was Tama City in Tokyo, this music conjures up the atmosphere of a Western-style mansion standing atop a hill and such breathtaking scenery as if you could see it with your own eyes.
It’s one of the film’s most popular and striking tracks, and I imagine many people are fans of this piece.
ReminiscenceYuji Nomi
From the film “Whisper of the Heart,” this piece is called “Reminiscence.” Everyone has those sweet-and-sour memories they want to revisit again and again.
The gentle melody, repeated on the piano, makes you feel as if you’re being led right back into those moments.
It’s a recommended track for people who are busy every day and feel like the days are passing by quickly.