Commercial songs from the 70s. Nostalgic TV commercial jingles.
When it comes to music of the 1970s, it was an era that produced countless classic songs—often called Showa Kayō—that are still loved today.
Naturally, many of these timeless hits were used in commercials at the time.
What’s more, numerous 70s tracks that were popular with listeners back then have also been picked up as commercial songs decades after their original release!
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of songs: not only those used in real time during the 1970s, but also tracks released in the 70s that were later featured in commercials.
From nostalgic commercials of the era to recently aired spots, enjoy a comprehensive look at 70s masterpieces that continue to be loved across generations.
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70s commercial tunes. Nostalgic commercial songs (21–30)
At HomeNakajima Miyuki
Miyuki Nakajima’s “Home nite (At the Platform)” is a song included on the B-side of the single “Wakare Uta,” released in 1977.
Despite being a B-side, it gained popularity thanks to numerous tie-ins, including being used as insert music for the drama “From the North Country” (Kita no Kuni Kara).
Set to a quiet, acoustic guitar–centered sound, it depicts the scene of a train platform bound for one’s hometown, imbued with both loneliness and warmth.
It was also used in a JR East commercial as a CM song; as a track themed around train stations, it conveys a warm atmosphere that evokes thoughts of one’s hometown.
Kanda Riverkaguya hime
Kaguya-hime’s “Kandagawa,” released in 1973, became a hit thanks to lyrics that resonate like looking back on memories with a lover.
A key point is that the words are partly based on true experiences, and real place names appear, which gives the lyrics a sense of realism.
The sound features a gentle timbre that’s quintessential folk, conveying both the wistfulness and warmth of reminiscing.
As for commercial use, it was featured in an ad for Takara Shochu’s Jun Legend with Kosetsu Minami appearing; paired with smiling visuals, the overall impression emphasizes warmth more than sadness.
Law of Smiles ~Smile on Me~Yanagi Jōji & Rainīuddo
“The Law of Smiles ~Smile on Me~” by George Yanagi & Rainy Wood was used as the song for Shiseido’s autumn campaign commercial in 1979.
Its refreshing melody, perfect for a cosmetics ad, leaves a strong impression.
The lyrics depict being captivated by the radiant smile of a beloved person.
But that person is no longer here.
The song carries a longing to see that wonderful smile once more.
The title, “The Law of Smiles,” might even suggest that one’s own smile depends on the smile of the person they love.
My Salad GirlGodiego
Godiego’s “My Salad Girl,” written entirely in English, was used as a commercial song for the cosmetics company Kanebo.
As Godiego’s debut single, the track became an instant hit and created a buzz.
The term “Salad Girl” in the title is said to refer to a woman who is fresh, clean, and stylish.
The song portrays such a wonderful woman through a loving gaze, capturing her every move.
You can feel the narrator’s unwavering love for everything about her—her hair, eyes, fragrance, and gestures.
The love melody, carried by a refreshing tune, is as fresh as a salad itself!
My castle townKoyanagi Rumiko
This is a hit song by Rumiko Koyanagi.
Lyrics by Kazumi Yasui, music by Akiro Hirao.
Released by Warner-Pioneer, the song reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart and sold 1,342,880 copies according to Oricon.
Its melancholy phrases strike a chord with listeners.
Song of SocratesNozaka Akiyuki
A 1976 TV commercial for Suntory’s Gold 900 whisky featured a curious jingle packed with the names of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Nietzsche.
The song, performed by Akira Nozaka—who was active as a writer, singer, and TV personality—is aptly titled “So-So-Socrates.” This strangely catchy tune even made it onto his own album.
Its message is that since great figures in history struggled with worries and became great, we who struggle with worries every day are also great.
The contrast between his deep, gruff vocals and the comical lyrics makes it a particularly entertaining track.
Summer ChampionAsano Yūko
In Kanebo’s summer campaign commercial in 1979, Yuko Asano’s “Summer Champion” was featured; she also appeared in the ad as the CM character.
Although Yuko Asano is strongly associated with her image as an actress, she actually debuted in show business as an idol singer.
This song is a cover of “SUMMER DREAM” by Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes.
It’s a bold number that declares the singer, made more alluring, will conquer even summer romance and become the champion.