Blue Bird Lyrics: Japanese & Pronunciation Guide

Hey guys! Ever found yourself humming along to that awesome anime opening, but stumbling over the Japanese lyrics? Yeah, we've all been there! Today, we're diving deep into one of the most iconic anime themes ever: Blue Bird (ブルーバード, Burūbādo) by Ikimono-gakari, famously known as the Naruto Shippuden opening. We'll break down the lyrics, give you the Japanese pronunciation, and even explore the meaning behind this epic song. So, whether you're a die-hard Naruto fan or just love Japanese music, buckle up and get ready to learn!

Unpacking the Lyrics of Blue Bird

Blue Bird isn't just a catchy tune; it's packed with powerful imagery and themes of freedom, hope, and overcoming obstacles. The lyrics resonate deeply with Naruto's journey and the struggles he faces throughout the series. Let's dissect the song stanza by stanza to truly appreciate its depth.

The Opening Lines:

"Habatakitara modoranai to itte Mezashita no wa aoi aoi ano sora"

(はばたいたら 戻らないと言って目指したのは 青い 青い あの空)

Pronunciation: "Habatakitara modoranai to itte / Mezashita no wa aoi aoi ano sora"

Translation: "Once you've flapped your wings, you can never return, you said. What we aimed for was that blue, blue sky."

These opening lines immediately set the tone for the song. The idea of flapping wings and not being able to return symbolizes a commitment to moving forward, leaving the past behind. The "blue, blue sky" represents a distant, perhaps unattainable, goal – something worth striving for despite the challenges.

The Chorus:

"Kanashimi wa mada oboerarenai Setsunasa wa ima tsukami hajimeta Anata e to idaku kono kanjou mo Ima kotoba ni kawatte iku"

(悲しみはまだ覚えられない切なさは今つかみはじめたあなたへと抱くこの感情も今言葉に変わっていく)

Pronunciation: "Kanashimi wa mada oboerarenai / Setsunasa wa ima tsukami hajimeta / Anata e to idaku kono kanjou mo / Ima kotoba ni kawatte iku"

Translation: "I still can't remember sadness. I've just begun to grasp this feeling of pain. Even this feeling I hold for you Is now changing into words."

The chorus delves into the complex emotions of youth. The inability to fully understand sadness, the nascent understanding of pain, and the struggle to express feelings – these are all universal experiences, especially poignant within the context of Naruto's often-turbulent life. The lines suggest a journey of emotional growth and self-discovery. This is where the emotional core of the song really shines.

Verses Exploring Inner Turmoil:

The verses of Blue Bird explore the internal conflicts and desires of the characters. They touch on themes of longing, uncertainty, and the yearning for connection. The lyrics paint a picture of individuals grappling with their identities and striving to find their place in the world. Words like "kodoku" (孤独, loneliness) and "mayoi" (迷い,迷い) frequently appear, reinforcing the sense of inner struggle.

The Bridge of Hope:

Towards the end, the song takes a more optimistic turn. The lyrics speak of believing in oneself, overcoming obstacles, and reaching for a brighter future. This is reflected in lines like:

"Tsubasa ga areba doko e demo yukeru to Shinjite ita ano koro"

(翼があればどこへでも行けると信じていたあの頃)

Pronunciation: "Tsubasa ga areba doko e demo yukeru to / Shinjite ita ano koro"

Translation: "I believed that if I had wings, I could go anywhere."

This signifies a renewed sense of hope and determination. The "wings" symbolize freedom and the ability to pursue one's dreams, a powerful message that resonates with the themes of Naruto.

Mastering the Japanese Pronunciation

Okay, so you've got the lyrics and the meaning, but how do you actually sing it? Don't worry; I've got you covered! Here's a breakdown of some key phrases with their approximate pronunciation. Remember, Japanese pronunciation is relatively consistent, so once you get the hang of the sounds, you'll be golden.

• Habatakitara (はばたいたら): ha-ba-ta-ki-ta-ra
• Modoranai (戻らない): mo-do-ra-na-i
• Mezashita (目指した): me-za-shi-ta
• Aoi (青い): a-o-i
• Kanashimi (悲しみ): ka-na-shi-mi
• Setsunasa (切なさ): se-tsu-na-sa
• Kanjou (感情): kan-jou
• Kotoba (言葉): ko-to-ba

Tips for nailing the pronunciation:

• Listen Carefully: The best way to improve your pronunciation is to listen to the song repeatedly. Pay attention to how Ikimono-gakari pronounces each word and try to mimic their intonation.
• Use Online Resources: There are tons of great online resources that can help you with Japanese pronunciation, including dictionaries with audio samples and YouTube tutorials.
• Break it Down: Don't try to learn the whole song at once. Focus on small sections and gradually build up your repertoire.
• Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become. Sing along to the song whenever you can, and don't be afraid to make mistakes – that's how you learn!
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself singing can be a great way to identify areas where you need to improve. It might feel a little awkward at first, but it's worth it!

Cultural Significance and Impact

Blue Bird isn't just a popular anime opening; it's a cultural phenomenon. It has been covered by countless artists, featured in numerous commercials and TV shows, and remains a staple at karaoke bars across Japan. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal themes and catchy melody.

Why is it so popular?

Several factors contribute to the song's success:

• Association with Naruto Shippuden: The anime's immense popularity provided a massive platform for the song.
• Relatable Themes: The themes of hope, struggle, and perseverance resonate with audiences of all ages.
• Catchy Melody: The song's upbeat and memorable melody makes it instantly appealing.
• Ikimono-gakari's Performance: The band's energetic and passionate performance adds another layer of depth to the song.

Blue Bird has transcended its origins as an anime theme and become a beloved song in its own right. It's a testament to the power of music to connect people and inspire hope.

Blue Bird: A Lasting Legacy

So, there you have it – a deep dive into the lyrics, pronunciation, and meaning of Blue Bird. This song is more than just an anime opening; it's a powerful anthem that speaks to the human spirit. Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or just discovering the magic of Japanese music, I hope this guide has helped you appreciate this iconic song on a deeper level.

Keep practicing those lyrics, and who knows, maybe you'll be belting out Blue Bird at your next karaoke night! Ganbatte (頑張って, do your best)!

Additional Resources

To further assist you in mastering the Japanese pronunciation and understanding the cultural context of "Blue Bird," here are some additional resources you might find helpful:

• Online Dictionaries: Use online Japanese-English dictionaries like Jisho.org or Goo Dictionary to look up the meaning of individual words and phrases. These dictionaries often provide audio samples to help you with pronunciation.
• YouTube Tutorials: Search for YouTube tutorials specifically focused on the pronunciation of "Blue Bird." Many talented individuals create videos breaking down the lyrics and offering tips for accurate pronunciation.
• Karaoke Websites: Explore karaoke websites like JOYSOUND or DAM, which provide lyrics and pronunciation guides for popular Japanese songs. These websites can be excellent resources for practicing your singing skills.
• Anime Communities: Engage with online anime communities and forums. Fellow fans can offer valuable insights into the song's cultural significance and help you refine your understanding of the lyrics.
• Language Exchange Partners: Consider connecting with native Japanese speakers through language exchange platforms. Practicing pronunciation with a native speaker can significantly improve your skills.

By utilizing these resources and dedicating time to practice, you'll be well on your way to mastering the Japanese pronunciation of "Blue Bird" and gaining a deeper appreciation for this iconic song.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Blue Bird" is a timeless song that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Its powerful lyrics, catchy melody, and association with the beloved anime series Naruto Shippuden have cemented its place in popular culture. By understanding the meaning behind the lyrics, mastering the Japanese pronunciation, and exploring the cultural context of the song, you can gain a deeper appreciation for its artistry and significance. So, go forth and sing your heart out! Let the soaring melodies and inspiring words of "Blue Bird" guide you on your own journey of self-discovery and perseverance. Remember, with dedication and practice, you can overcome any obstacle and reach for your dreams, just like Naruto and the characters in the song. Embrace the spirit of the blue bird and let your own inner voice soar!