[Wamono] A roundup of popular 1970s Japanese dance songs and disco kayō
Speaking of the 1970s, it was also an era overseas when danceable music like funky soul and disco rose to prominence, giving birth to many history-making hits.
In Japan, too, many who spent their youth in those days probably have memories of hitting the dance floor night after night to the big hits.
This time, we’re focusing on Japanese music from the ’70s that reflects the influence of soul and disco—introducing both smash hits and hidden gems that later became known as “Wamono” and gained popularity among DJs.
Young music fans interested in city pop and disco kayō, be sure to check these out!
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[Wamono] Popular 70s Japanese Dance Songs and Disco Kayō Summary (1–10)
bullseyeYamamoto Rinda
This song, which opens with a memorable phrase everyone has heard at least once, was created by Yū Aku and Shunichi Tokura and released in 1973.
Its lyrics brimming with strong self-affirmation and Linda Yamamoto’s captivating performance quickly drew widespread attention, reaching No.
14 on the Oricon charts.
Its popularity never waned; in 1991, it marked her return to NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen after 17 years.
The track also became widely beloved as a baseball cheer song, adopted by Meiji University’s cheering squad as well as the Chunichi Dragons and the Hanshin Tigers.
Highly recommended for anyone interested in 1970s Japanese music influenced by disco and soul, or for those searching for a nostalgic favorite.
HELL OR HEAVEN (Hell or Heaven)Gō Hiromi
Released in July 1978, Hiromi Go’s song is a classic born in the heart of the disco boom.
It was used as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mu Ichizoku” and became a major hit, especially among young people.
Marked by dynamic vocals and an up-tempo disco beat, it whipped dance floors of the era into a frenzy.
It’s also an important track in Go’s career and has long been a staple at his live shows.
The piece comically portrays an extreme choice—“hell or heaven”—lightly capturing life’s options and moments of decision.
Young music fans, be sure to check it out!
That shy guykyandīzu
A song by the Candies, a girls’ group emblematic of 70s pop music, infused with the influence of soul, sings the charms of a shy boyfriend.
The lyrics lovingly portray his endearing side—clingy and timid, blushing and getting embarrassed—in a way so cute it’s sure to make you smile.
Released in June 1975 as their sixth single, the track was also used as an insert song in the film “The Drifters’ It’s a Patsy!! You’re Under Arrest!!”.
Following “Toshishita no Otokonoko” (“Younger Boy”), the performance centered on Ran Ito captivated fans at the time.
This work is recommended for anyone who wants to look back on the bittersweet romantic memories of their youth.
[Wa-mono] A roundup of popular 1970s Japanese dance songs and disco kayō (11–20)
For example… for exampleWatanabe Machiko
Known as a bittersweet heartbreak song, this track showcases Machiko Watanabe’s clear, translucent vocals that beautifully capture the complex emotions left after a breakup.
Released in January 1979 as her fourth single, it reached No.
13 on the Oricon chart and earned her an appearance on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It was also included on the album “Tōku Hanarete,” and has long been cherished as one of Watanabe’s signature songs.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reflect on feelings for someone dear.
Despite its wistful mood, it features touches of funky 1970s soul-style arrangements throughout—a hallmark that has also made it popular among fans of Japanese “wamo-no” grooves.
Inspector Pepperpinku redii
Let me introduce a smash hit by Pink Lady, the idol duo that epitomized the ’70s.
It’s an up-tempo track that fuses disco and pop, with lyrics that charmingly blend sweet, wistful romance and humor.
Through the character “Inspector Pepper,” it captures the feelings of young people in love.
Released in 1976, it peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon charts and sold a total of 1.05 million copies in Japan.
An English version was also produced and released across several European countries.
Perfect for anyone who wants to feel like a couple falling in love under the summer night sky—and a must-listen for fans of dance music!
School HeavenFingā 5
When it comes to classic songs etched in the hearts of those who came of age in the ’70s, this track is impossible to ignore.
Released in March 1974 as Finger 5’s fifth single, it captivates with lyrics that portray the bittersweetness of school life, paired with a lively melody and danceable ensemble.
It sings about a universal moment of youth—secretly gazing at your crush during class.
The song was also featured in the film Waterboys, and it continues to be loved across generations.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to reminisce about their school days or enjoys youthful anthems.
Woman of FlameYumi Kaoru
Kaoru Yumi, who was a top dancer with the Nishino Ballet Company.
For those born in the Heisei era, her bath scenes as Kagerō Ogin in Mito Kōmon may be especially memorable.
Despite her petite frame, she had an outstanding figure, and her bold stage costumes when she sang “Honō no Onna” were also very cool.