Memorable Commercials [April 2025]

HOLIDAYSKimura Kaera

Kaela Kimura – “HOLIDAYS” music video short ver.

This commercial introduces the term “Umajo,” which refers to women who love horse racing, and showcases ways women uniquely enjoy the racetrack.

Mitsuki Takahata, Tao Tsuchiya, and Wakana Aoi are shown enjoying spots like the UMAJO SPOT as Umajo, while Yuya Yagira and Taishi Nakagawa express their frustration at not being able to join in.

The content conveys a desire for people from a wide range of backgrounds to enjoy the racetrack.

Highlighting the fun, lively atmosphere is Kaela Kimura’s song “HOLIDAYS.” Its upbeat sound and light, breezy vocals are striking and perfectly capture the cheerful vibe of a day off.

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Sexual Violet No. 1Kuwana Masahiro

Sexual Violet No. 1 – YouTube.flv

Masahiro Kuwana’s “Sexual Violet No.

1” was released in 1979 and is one of his signature songs.

The lyrics have a sexy vibe, seemingly singing about a man–woman relationship, and combined with the guitar-driven, powerful sound, they convey a unique, forceful image.

One reason the song became a hit was its use in a Kanebo commercial, which is said to have boosted Kuwana’s popularity.

The structure, with the title repeated in the chorus, leaves the song name firmly imprinted in your mind.

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Gently Singing ~Killing Me Softly with His Song~Watanabe Misato

Gently Singing ~Killing Me Softly with His Song~

The Nescafé Excella commercial that aired in 2003 features a cover of “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” originally sung by Lori Lieberman in 1971.

Known in Japan by the title “Yasashiku Utatte,” the version used in this commercial is Misato Watanabe’s 2002 cover.

It’s an excellent rendition that incorporates a contemporary sound while faithfully preserving the mellow, elegant atmosphere of the original.

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Hane Keisuke

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Time, stop.Yazawa Eikichi

Time, stop.

Eikichi Yazawa’s “Tokiya Tomare” (Stop, Time) was released in 1978 and is a highly popular song that has been covered by various artists.

An interesting point is that after the catchphrase “Stop, time” was decided, Shiseido set out to create a campaign song, which led to the request being made to Yazawa.

The gentle band sound layered with vocals that carry a touch of sadness conveys a sensual atmosphere.

Given its origins as a Shiseido campaign song, the structure strongly evokes images of romantic relationships, which leaves a striking impression.

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Boo…raisan

Praise – Uramesshiya

This commercial showcases the Professional University of International Fashion’s strong determination to step boldly onto the world stage.

It depicts, with powerful visuals, what courses are offered, what initiatives are being pursued, and the passion behind them.

The song that further underscores this resolve toward the world, embedded in the footage, is Raisan’s “Uramesshiya.” While the rap over an overall dark-toned sound leaves a strong impression, the chorus conveys a forceful drive to move forward.

The sharpness in the sound and vocals clearly communicates confidence and resolve.

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Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

This commercial portrays the special time spent watching horse racing, where you can experience the thrill of the races and the emotional drama surrounding them.

Other members speak to Ryoma Takeuchi about the appeal of horse racing, and by convincing him, they come to share the values of engaging with the sport.

Over the fresh, vibrant visuals set at the racetrack plays Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s signature song, “Mela!” It’s a track that conveys the resolve to start running while carrying anxieties yet believing in oneself, combining a refreshing sound with a strong sense of power.

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The season the sun gave usaoi sankakujougi

The Season Given by the Sun — Aoi Sankaku Jōgi, 1972

Aoi Sankakujōgi’s “Taiyō ga Kureta Kisetsu” was released in 1972 and drew attention for being used as the theme song for the drama “Tobidase! Seishun.” With this song, they won the Newcomer Award at the Japan Record Awards and even appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, making it one of Aoi Sankakujōgi’s signature tracks.

The lyrics strongly evoke youth, expressing the struggles that come with being young, set to the gentle sound of folk music.

As for commercials, it has been used in spots like the Lake (consumer finance) ads featuring the comedy duo Chidori; its wistful melody is deliberately paired with comedic visuals to create a striking contrast.