NHK’s popular music program ‘The Covers’ is set to delight viewers with a special spring-themed episode on March 5, 2026. The show, which highlights the enduring appeal of classic songs through contemporary interpretations, will focus on “songs for spring,” featuring celebrated artists such as JUJU, Sakai Yū, Cocco, Hata Motohiro, and Tokunaga Hideaki. The broadcast promises a combination of nostalgic melodies and modern artistry, celebrating songs that evoke the beauty and emotion of the spring season.

A Studio Inspired by Classic ‘NEO Melody Cafés’

For this special episode, the production team has created a studio space reminiscent of a “NEO meikyoku kissaten” (neo classic song café), evoking the ambiance of music cafés from the Showa era while incorporating modern design elements. This aesthetic serves as a perfect backdrop for revisiting classic spring songs from the 1970s and 1980s. The show’s set design not only celebrates the golden age of Japanese pop music but also bridges the gap between generations, allowing younger audiences to experience iconic melodies in a fresh, immersive environment.

Featured Guests: Bridging Generations of Music

The program’s lineup highlights artists who have made a name for themselves through both original hits and memorable cover performances.

JUJU is a singer renowned for her ability to reinterpret classics while adding her own distinctive style. Known for crossing genre and generational boundaries, she treats the revival of famous songs as a personal mission, making her an ideal guest for a program dedicated to the enduring appeal of springtime music.

Sakai Yū, a versatile singer-songwriter, is celebrated for his genre-crossing musical talents. His repertoire spans from city pop to kayōkyoku (classic Japanese pop), making his interpretations of classic hits uniquely contemporary while staying true to their original charm.

The special also features Matsutoya Masataka, a legendary music producer who has contributed to the careers of numerous artists since the 1970s. Matsutoya is not only responsible for producing JUJU’s latest cover album but has also worked as a concert director and arranger for some of Japan’s most iconic musical moments. His presence provides insight into the evolution of Japanese music and the artistry behind beloved classics.

The “Spring Covers Collection”: A Celebration of Iconic Songs

One of the highlights of this episode is the “Spring Covers Collection,” which features iconic tracks perfectly suited for the season. The collection spans multiple decades and includes interpretations of well-loved classics:

• Hata Motohiro performing “Haru yo, Koi” originally by Matsutoya Yumi – a song that has become synonymous with the arrival of spring in Japan.
• Tokunaga Hideaki performing “Haru nanoni” originally by Kashiwabara Yoshie, a bittersweet ballad that captures the fleeting beauty of the season.
• Suzuki Masayuki performing “Kimi wa Bara yori Utsukushii” originally by Fuse Akira, a song whose romantic lyrics resonate deeply with listeners.
• JUJU performing “ANNIVERSARY ~Mugen ni CALLING YOU~”, another Matsutoya Yumi classic, highlighting her soulful interpretation.

These performances reflect the show’s commitment to honoring both the emotional resonance and musical craftsmanship of timeless songs.

Special Arrangements by Matsutoya Masataka

In addition to the main collection, Matsutoya Masataka arranged a set of songs for the spring special that offer unique reinterpretations of classic hits:

• Ikimono Gakari performing “Sotsugyō Shashin”, originally by Arai Yumi, a nostalgic song about graduation and transitions.
• GLIM SPANKY performing “Machibuse”, originally by Miki Seiko and Ishikawa Hitomi, blending retro charm with modern rock sensibilities.
• Cocco performing “Nagori Yuki”, originally by Iruka, a winter farewell song that captures the lingering sentiment of the season as it transitions into spring.

Matsutoya’s arrangements bring new life to these classics, balancing reverence for the originals with fresh, contemporary interpretations.

JUJU’s Global Influence: Western Covers for Japanese Audiences

JUJU’s performance segment includes a selection of Western songs from the 1970s and 1980s, which have long held a place in Japanese popular culture. These performances are drawn from her latest cover album, produced by Matsutoya Masataka, and include:

• “Honesty” by Billy Joel, known as a beloved CM (commercial) song in Japan.
• “If We Hold On Together” by Diana Ross, famous for its association with drama theme songs in Japan.

These renditions demonstrate how Western music has been integrated into Japanese musical culture, and JUJU’s interpretations honor both the original compositions and the sentimental connection they hold for Japanese audiences.

Sakai Yū’s Intimate Piano Performance

Sakai Yū brings a more intimate feel to the show with a piano-accompanied performance of “Ii Hi Tabidachi” by Yamaguchi Momoe, a song that embodies the hope and promise of new beginnings. His minimalist approach emphasizes the emotional depth of the lyrics and melody, providing a counterpoint to the more expansive arrangements seen elsewhere in the episode.

Conversations With Matsutoya Masataka: Insights Into Music History

Beyond performances, the episode features insightful conversations among the three main guests—JUJU, Sakai Yū, and Matsutoya Masataka—covering:

• The origins of Matsutoya Masataka’s approach to music production.
• The evolution of Japanese pop music from the 1970s through the 1980s.
• The enduring appeal of songs across generations.

These discussions give viewers a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural significance of the songs featured, as well as a glimpse into the creative processes behind some of Japan’s most cherished music.

Airing Schedule

The spring special of NHK ‘The Covers’ will air on March 5, 2026, from 10:00 PM to 10:45 PM JST on NHK General TV. A repeat broadcast is scheduled for March 10, 2026, from 12:35 AM to 1:20 AM JST, also on NHK General TV. This allows fans to catch the show if they miss the initial airing.

Tracklist: Songs for Spring

The program’s featured songs include both Western and Japanese classics, carefully curated for the spring season. The line-up for the episode is as follows:

JUJU

• “Honesty” (Billy Joel)
• “If We Hold On Together” (Diana Ross)

Sakai Yū

• “Ii Hi Tabidachi” (Yamaguchi Momoe)

Spring Covers Collection

• Hata Motohiro – “Haru yo, Koi” (Matsutoya Yumi)
• Tokunaga Hideaki – “Haru nanoni” (Kashiwabara Yoshie)
• Suzuki Masayuki – “Kimi wa Bara yori Utsukushii” (Fuse Akira)
• JUJU – “ANNIVERSARY ~Mugen ni CALLING YOU~” (Matsutoya Yumi)

Matsutoya Masataka Arrangements

• Ikimono Gakari – “Sotsugyō Shashin” (Arai Yumi)
• GLIM SPANKY – “Machibuse” (Miki Seiko & Ishikawa Hitomi)
• Cocco – “Nagori Yuki” (Iruka)

Why ‘The Covers’ Remains Relevant

NHK’s ‘The Covers’ stands out for its ability to connect past and present. By combining live performances with expert commentary and thoughtful arrangements, the show makes classic music accessible and enjoyable for audiences of all ages. Spring-themed episodes, in particular, evoke a sense of renewal, nostalgia, and emotional resonance that aligns perfectly with the season’s themes of growth and new beginnings.

The inclusion of both Japanese and Western music underscores the universality of music, demonstrating how songs can transcend cultural and temporal boundaries to inspire listeners worldwide. For viewers, this episode offers not just entertainment but also a celebration of music as a living, evolving art form.

Conclusion: A Musical Celebration of Spring

With its mix of timeless classics, modern interpretations, and expert insights, the upcoming spring special of NHK ‘The Covers’ promises a rich, multi-dimensional experience. From JUJU’s soulful Western covers to Sakai Yū’s delicate piano performance and the thoughtfully curated Spring Covers Collection, the episode highlights the beauty and emotional depth of music across generations.

For fans of Japanese pop, music history enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the power of song, this broadcast is a must-watch celebration of spring, memory, and melody.