A Look at Japanese Words Hidden in Western Pop Music

You might know that Japanese pop culture shows up in anime, fashion, or tech—but did you ever notice it in Western pop songs?

From iconic chants like “Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto” to full Japanese choruses by Queen, Japanese words have quietly (and sometimes loudly) made their way into English-language music. Sometimes it’s a nod of respect, other times just for the vibe—but either way, it’s always a little surprising.

Here’s a lighthearted look at some memorable songs where Japanese sneaks into the lyrics—sometimes clearly, sometimes in disguise.

John Lennon – “Aisumasen (I’m Sorry)” (1973)

Japanese phrase: あいすいません (aisuimasen) — “I’m sorry”

The title of this heartfelt ballad is a stylized version of the Japanese word “sumimasen” (すみません), which can mean “I’m sorry” or “excuse me.” Lennon sings “Aisumasen” as a sincere, if slightly playful, apology—likely influenced by his deepening relationship with Yoko Ono and exposure to Japanese language.
It’s an old-fashioned or joking variant of the standard phrase, adding both warmth and character to the song’s emotional core.

Queen – “Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together)” (1976)

Japanese lyrics with translation:

手をとりあって (te o toriatte) — Let us hold hands
このまま行こう (kono mama ikou) — Let’s go on like this
愛する人よ (aisuru hito yo) — My beloved
静かな宵に (shizukana yoi ni) — On a quiet evening
光を灯し (hikari o tomoshi) — Lighting a light
愛しき教えを抱き (itoshiki oshie o idaki) — Embracing beloved teachings

Unlike many songs that merely sprinkle in foreign words, Queen includes two full choruses in Japanese. Freddie Mercury’s careful and respectful pronunciation made this a moving tribute to Japanese fans. The title “Teo Torriatte” itself is a phonetic spelling of 「手をとりあって」.
His Japanese is so sincere and clear that even native Japanese listeners often find it moving.

David Bowie – “It’s No Game (Part 1)” (1980)

Japanese narration by Michi Hirota

The song opens with an intense Japanese monologue performed by actress Michi Hirota. Bowie’s English verses respond sharply, creating a bilingual tension that evokes theatrical conflict. This fusion reflects Bowie’s interest in Japanese avant-garde art and experimental storytelling.

Styx – “Mr. Roboto” (1983)

Japanese phrases:

·         どうもありがとう (dōmo arigatō) — Thank you very much

·         また会う日まで (mata au hi made) — Until we meet again

·         秘密を知りたい (himitsu o shiritai) — I want to know the secret

The repeated chant “Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto” became iconic. Set in a dystopian future, the song explores identity, secrecy, and machines—tapping into 1980s fascination with robotics and Japan’s tech boom.

Gwen Stefani – “Harajuku Girls” (2004)

Japanese words used:

·         愛してる (aishiteru) — I love you

·         美少女 (bishōjo) — Beautiful girl

·         かわいい (kawaii) — Cute

Stefani sings about Tokyo’s youth fashion district with phrases like “kawaii” and “bishōjo.” While the song helped introduce Harajuku culture to Western audiences, it also sparked discussions about cultural representation and appropriation.

Madonna – “Sorry” (2005)

Japanese phrase: ごめんなさい (gomen nasai) — I’m sorry

Madonna includes “gomen nasai” in a sequence of apologies in various languages, adding an international flavor to this global dance anthem.

 Avril Lavigne – “Hello Kitty” (2014)

Japanese phrases:

·         みんな最高 (minna saikō) — Everyone’s awesome

·         ありがとう (arigatō) — Thank you

·         かわいい (kawaii) — Cute

In this neon-colored pop track, Avril shouts phrases like “Minna saikō!” and “Arigatō!” The song, full of visual and verbal references to Japanese pop culture, drew mixed reactions—some saw it as fun, others as tone-deaf.

Why It Matters

Whether heartfelt or quirky, Japanese phrases in Western pop songs tend to stick in the mind. They reflect moments of curiosity, admiration, or simply stylistic flair. So next time you hear a phrase in your favorite song and wonder, “Wait, was that Japanese?”—you might be onto something.

Pop culture often travels in unexpected ways, and language is one of the most interesting vehicles for that journey.

And if you've ever found yourself thinking, “Is this weird phrase Japanese?”—feel free to ask! You might be surprised what’s hiding in the lyrics.