Here we go, week 1 of 52 covers in 52 weeks!  Tired of not having time to write new song (I'm a new mom), I came up with this idea to keep me creative and motivated.

Week 1 - Sukiyaki.  The only Japanese song ever to reach the top of the Billboard charts.  The original title is "Ue o muite arukou" - it was retitled "Sukiyaki" only because it was an easy Japanese word that was familiar to English speakers.  Sukiyaki actually is a Japanese hot pot dish which became popular when Americans first came to Japan sometime in the mid 1800's.  Up until then Japanese people didn't eat much meet especially beef.  But that's a side note.  It's a beautiful song and I've always loved it.  I'm including my translation of the lyrics.  Hope you enjoy!  

 

Sukiyaki

I look up at the sky when I go for a walk so tears won't fall

Thinking of that day in spring, all alone one evening

I look up at the sky when I go for a walk, and count the blurry stars

Thinking of that day in summer, all alone one evening

 

Happiness is up above the clouds

Happiness is up above the sky

 

I look up at the sky when I go for a walk so tears won't fall

Walking and crying, all alone one evening

 

Thinking of that day in the autumn, all alone one evening

 

Sadness is in the shadow of the stars

Sadness is in the shadow of the moon

 

I look up at the sky when I go for a walk so tears won't fall

Walking and crying, all alone one evening

All alone one evening

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