[2025] A roundup of Western songs that include Japanese
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?”
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[2025] A Compilation of Western Songs Featuring Japanese (1–10)
happy imUMI
Released in 2023, UMI’s track “happy im” is a recommended listen for Western music fans who want to sink into a mellow groove.
Featuring lyrics that mix Japanese and English, it distinctly reflects UMI’s multicultural background.
The Japanese sections, heard over the gentle tones of acoustic guitar, help convey the subtleties of her emotions.
Centered on themes of love and self-love, the song gives listeners the courage to embrace love and happiness.
As a Western pop song that incorporates Japanese, it offers a fresh appeal and is truly a wonderful piece.
All Around The World (ft.LaToiya Williams)Jay Z
The American hip-hop king Jay-Z’s 2002 hidden gem featuring Latoiya Williams is a confident track that paints a picture of a worldwide journey.
It captures his pride in having risen from New York’s impoverished neighborhoods to become, quite literally, a “global” figure, backed by the success that proves it.
His smooth flow meshes perfectly with Williams’s soulful vocals, letting you sink into a laid-back mood as if you’re traveling the world.
The song appears on the album The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse.
Released in November 2002 as an ambitious double-disc, it achieved commercial success, including reaching No.
1 on the Billboard charts.
With its polished sound and lyrics that even include Japanese, the track offers a glimpse of respect for cultures around the world—perfect for anyone seeking an international vibe.
Wifey Riddim 4AJ Tracey
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.
[2025] A roundup of Western songs that include Japanese (11–20)
ArigatoJulie Bergan
Shining as a captivating Western pop song woven with Japanese is the signature track by Norwegian singer-songwriter Julie Bergan.
Released in June 2016, the song uses the Japanese word “arigatou” (thank you) in its title, yet its true intent is a sarcastic expression of gratitude.
With pulsing electropop beats, it powerfully proclaims the strength to break free from a past relationship and stand on one’s own.
It became a major hit, reaching No.
1 on Norway’s singles chart and No.
5 in Sweden, rapidly boosting her international profile.
Its strong vocals and forward-looking message are perfect for healing a wounded heart and taking a new step.
The positive stance of viewing heartbreak not merely as a goodbye but as an opportunity for growth is sure to give you courage.
Get Ur Freak OnMissy Elliott
Released in 2001, Get Ur Freak On is a powerful and unique hit that Missy Elliott delivered from her album Miss E… So Addictive.
It masterfully fuses hip-hop beats emblematic of the era with Indian bhangra music.
Above all, the Japanese phrases sprinkled throughout the track add a surprising twist for listeners and showcase the breadth of Elliott’s musical approach.
Packed with global sensibility and innovation, the song has won numerous music awards, climbed high on the charts, and remains a beloved classic worldwide.
Taki Taki (ft. Selena Gomez, Ozuna, Cardi B)DJ Snake
A 2018 September release produced by world-renowned French DJ, DJ Snake, featuring Selena Gomez, Cardi B, and Ozuna.
The lyrics mix Spanish and English and originally included the Japanese word “Nagasaki,” which was later changed to “Saki Saki” following criticism that it evoked the atomic bomb.
Just three months after its release, the song became a massive hit, surpassing one billion views on YouTube.
Its passionate rhythm, fusing Latin music with EDM, swept through clubs worldwide, and the sultry music video set in an ancient temple by a volcano also drew attention.
Whether for a nighttime drive or to fire up a party, putting on this track will instantly wrap you in a sexy, exotic atmosphere.
Aisumasen (I’m Sorry)John Lennon
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.