Blue Bird Lyrics: English Pronunciation Guide
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the iconic anime opening, "Blue Bird"! Ever wanted to sing along perfectly but stumbled over the Japanese lyrics? No worries, this guide breaks down the pronunciation so you can finally nail it. We'll go through each line, offering easy-to-read romanizations and tips to get your karaoke game on point. Let's get started and unleash your inner anime superstar!
Why "Blue Bird" is So Popular
"Blue Bird" (ブルーバード, Burūbādo) isn't just any anime opening; it's a cultural phenomenon. Released as the third opening theme for Naruto: Shippuden, this song, performed by the amazing Ikimono-gakari, captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Its uplifting melody combined with powerful lyrics about freedom, hope, and determination resonates deeply with viewers, perfectly complementing the themes of the anime itself. The song's energy is infectious, making it impossible not to feel pumped up and ready for adventure. Beyond its association with Naruto, "Blue Bird" has transcended its anime origins, becoming a staple in Japanese pop culture and a favorite among anime fans globally. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and the emotional connection it forges with listeners. Whether you're a long-time Naruto fan or simply someone who appreciates great music, "Blue Bird" is a track that's sure to leave a lasting impression. The blend of traditional Japanese musical elements with modern pop sensibilities creates a unique and timeless sound that continues to captivate audiences. Its impact on anime music is undeniable, setting a high bar for future opening themes and solidifying its place in anime history.
Breaking Down the Lyrics: Verse 1
Okay, let's tackle the first verse. I'll provide the original Japanese, followed by the romanized pronunciation to help you sing along. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Japanese:
Habatakitara modorenai to itte
Mezashita no wa aoi aoi ano sora
"Kanashimi" wa mada oboerarezu
"Setsunasa" wa ima tsukamihajimeta
Romanized Pronunciation:
Habatakitara modorenai to itte
Mezashita no wa aoi aoi ano sora
"Kanashimi" wa mada oboerarezu
"Setsunasa" wa ima tsukamihajimeta
Tips:
- "Habatakitara" can be broken down as "Ha-ba-ta-ki-ta-ra."
- Focus on the long "o" sound in "modorenai" – "mo-do-re-nai."
- "Mezashita" is pronounced "Me-za-shi-ta," with a soft "shi" sound.
- Pay attention to the pauses between the phrases to maintain the rhythm.
- "Kanashimi" (sadness) and "Setsunasa" (bitterness) are key emotional words. Emphasize them slightly.
This verse talks about taking flight and not being able to return, aiming for that blue, blue sky. It touches on not yet fully understanding sadness but beginning to grasp the feeling of bitterness. It’s a powerful opening that sets the tone for the entire song, hinting at themes of growth, change, and the bittersweet journey of life. The repetition of "aoi aoi" (blue, blue) emphasizes the vastness and allure of the sky, symbolizing the limitless possibilities and challenges that lie ahead. The contrast between "kanashimi" and "setsunasa" highlights the emotional complexity of the journey, suggesting that the path to freedom and self-discovery is not without its pain and hardship.
Chorus: Soaring High
The chorus is where the song truly takes flight! It’s catchy, powerful, and guaranteed to get stuck in your head. Here’s the breakdown:
Japanese:
Iki急ぐように飛び立つ
強く強く蹴って
迷い込んだ心へ
叫ぶように歌う
届けきっと届くから
Romanized Pronunciation:
Isogi isogu you ni tobitatsu
Tsuyoku tsuyoku kette
Mayoikonda kokoro e
Sakebu you ni utau
Todoke kitto todoku kara
Tips:
- "Isogi isogu" means "hurrying, hurrying." Repeat the phrase with energy.
- "Tobitatsu" (take off, fly away) should be pronounced smoothly – "To-bi-ta-tsu."
- "Tsuyoku tsuyoku" (strongly, strongly) – emphasize the "tsu" sound.
- "Mayoikonda kokoro e" (to the lost heart) – focus on the "ko" sounds.
- "Sakebu you ni utau" (sing as if shouting) – put some passion into it!
This chorus is all about taking off in a hurry, kicking off strongly, and singing as if shouting to a lost heart. It expresses the belief that the message will surely reach someone. The repetition of "tsuyoku tsuyoku" amplifies the determination and force behind the actions, highlighting the need for strength and resolve in the face of adversity. The phrase "mayoikonda kokoro e" suggests a sense of empathy and compassion, indicating a desire to reach out to those who are lost or struggling. The act of singing as if shouting conveys a sense of urgency and passion, emphasizing the importance of expressing oneself fully and authentically. The overall message is one of hope and perseverance, with the belief that even in the darkest of times, one's voice can make a difference and that the message will eventually reach its intended destination.
Verse 2: Facing the Unknown
Now, let's move onto the second verse, which delves deeper into the themes of uncertainty and courage.
Japanese:
Mou “dame da” tte sakenda toko de
Doushitatte jikan wa sugisatte iku
Nee “wasurenaide” tte sakenda toko de
Kitto daremo kawatte wa kurenai yo
Romanized Pronunciation:
Mou "dame da" tte sakenda toko de
Doushitatte jikan wa sugisatte iku
Nee "wasurenaide" tte sakenda toko de
Kitto daremo kawatte wa kurenai yo
Tips:
- "Mou 'dame da' tte sakenda toko de" (Even if you shout 'it's no good anymore') - emphasize the despair.
- "Doushitatte jikan wa sugisatte iku" (No matter what, time passes) - focus on the flow of time.
- "Nee 'wasurenaide' tte sakenda toko de" (Hey, even if you shout 'don't forget') - convey the plea.
- "Kitto daremo kawatte wa kurenai yo" (Surely no one will change) - express the sense of resignation.
This verse explores the harsh realities of life, acknowledging the feelings of hopelessness and the inevitability of time passing. It questions the effectiveness of shouting out in despair or pleading not to be forgotten, suggesting that ultimately, no one can change the course of events. The use of the word "dame da" (it's no good) conveys a sense of utter defeat, while the phrase "jikan wa sugisatte iku" emphasizes the relentless passage of time, which cannot be stopped or reversed. The plea "wasurenaide" (don't forget) highlights the fear of being forgotten or left behind, but the realization that "daremo kawatte wa kurenai yo" suggests a sense of acceptance and resignation. This verse is a powerful reflection on the challenges of life, acknowledging the feelings of despair and the limitations of human agency.
Final Chorus: Believing in Yourself
The final chorus is where the hope shines through. It’s a reaffirmation of belief and a call to action.
Japanese:
Iki急ぐように飛び立つ
強く強く蹴って
迷い込んだ心へ
叫ぶように歌う
届けきっと届くから
Romanized Pronunciation:
Isogi isogu you ni tobitatsu
Tsuyoku tsuyoku kette
Mayoikonda kokoro e
Sakebu you ni utau
Todoke kitto todoku kara
Tips:
The tips for the final chorus are the same as the first chorus, so practice and infuse your performance with emotion!
This final chorus reiterates the message of the first chorus, emphasizing the importance of taking action and believing in oneself. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, one must continue to strive forward and express oneself with passion. The repetition of the phrase "todoke kitto todoku kara" reinforces the belief that one's message will eventually reach its intended audience, providing hope and encouragement in the face of doubt and uncertainty. This chorus is a culmination of the song's themes, bringing together the ideas of determination, empathy, and belief in a single, uplifting message. It is a call to action, urging listeners to take flight, overcome obstacles, and make their voices heard.
Mastering the Pronunciation: General Tips
Okay, guys, here are some general tips to help you master the pronunciation of the entire song:
- Listen Carefully: The most important thing is to listen to the original song multiple times. Pay attention to how Ikimono-gakari pronounces each word and phrase.
- Slow It Down: Use online tools to slow down the song without distorting the audio. This will help you catch the nuances of the pronunciation.
- Break It Down: Divide the lyrics into smaller chunks. Focus on mastering one line or phrase at a time before moving on.
- Use a Pronunciation Guide: Refer to this guide (and others online) to understand the romanized pronunciation of each word.
- Record Yourself: Record yourself singing the song and compare it to the original. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering the pronunciation. Set aside some time each day to work on the song.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're struggling with a particular word or phrase, don't hesitate to ask a native Japanese speaker for help.
- Focus on the Rhythm: Pay attention to the rhythm and flow of the song. This will help you maintain the correct pronunciation and timing.
Conclusion: Let Your Voice Soar!
So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to the English pronunciation of "Blue Bird" lyrics. With practice and dedication, you'll be singing along like a pro in no time. Remember, it's not just about getting the words right; it's about feeling the emotion and expressing the message of the song. So, go out there, let your voice soar, and embrace the freedom and hope that "Blue Bird" represents! You got this! Now go and impress your friends with your amazing karaoke skills. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be belting out "Blue Bird" with all the passion and energy of Ikimono-gakari themselves. Believe in yourself, and never give up on your dreams! Keep singing and keep shining! You're all awesome! Enjoy the journey of learning and discovering the beauty of music and language! Good luck, and have fun!
