Dawn of Japanese Rock: A Collection of Debut Songs by 1970s Japanese Rock Bands
The 1970s were a period that brought a revolutionary shift to the history of Japanese rock.
From psychedelia and hard rock to the refined city pop that followed, Japanese artists searched for their own means of expression and opened up new possibilities in music.
The rock bands that emerged in that era overturned the conventions of Japanese popular music with innovative sounds and bold lyrics.
In this article, we introduce the debut songs of legendary bands that were mainly active in the 1970s.
From legends still thriving in the 2020s to cult favorites known to a select few, listen to the tracks that marked their beginnings and experience the energy and innovation of the dawn of Japanese rock.
Dawn of Japanese Rock: A Compilation of Debut Songs by 1970s Japanese Rock Bands (1–10)
summer showerTHE ALFIE
THE ALFEE have led Japan’s rock scene for over 50 years.
This song, which marked the beginning of their illustrious history, is a precious and delicate folk ballad from the period when they were still a four-piece—quite different in character from the hard rock sound they would later embrace.
With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Kyohei Tsutsumi, it shines like a jewel: Toshihiko Takamizawa’s fresh lead vocals are beautifully complemented by the harmonies of Masaru Sakurai and Konosuke Sakazaki.
The image of a farewell penned in a parting letter overlaps with rain falling like disheveled hair, tightening the listener’s chest.
Released in August 1974 under the name “ALFIE” as their debut single, it can also be heard on the album Seishun no Kioku (Memories of Youth).
It’s the perfect song for those moments when you want to listen to the sound of the rain and let your thoughts drift to seasons gone by.
I don’t buy lottery tickets.RC sakuseshon
RC Succession is a rock band formed around Kiyoshiro Imawano.
Even those who aren’t music fans have likely heard their countless classics, led by “Ameagari no Yozora ni.” This is their debut single, released in March 1970, where it all began.
Set to an acoustic sound, it delivers a simple yet powerful message that the greatest happiness is a love that money can’t buy—one that truly resonates.
Though rooted in their early folk style, it hints at the R&B-infused, soulful cries that would later define their rock sound.
The track is also included on the best-of album “KING OF BEST.” When you’re feeling a bit worn out by materialism, this warm song invites you to reflect on what it means to have a rich heart.
Suddenly, SinbadSazan Ōrusutāzu
Centered around singer-songwriter Keisuke Kuwata—who has released numerous classic songs as a solo artist—Southern All Stars is a rock band that has long been a top runner in the J-pop scene, and this is their debut single.
Set to a passionate Latin rock groove, the song captivates with lyrics that are sexy yet comical, vividly painting scenes in your mind.
Released as a single in June 1978, it was also featured in a commercial for Asahi Soft Drinks’ Mitsuya Cider.
Despite being their debut, it’s known as one of their signature tracks and is an essential classic in the history of Japanese rock.
The call-and-response in the intro chorus and the refrain is guaranteed to get the crowd going when you try it at karaoke!
LouisianaKyaroru
This is the debut single by Carol, the rock ’n’ roll band that blew a hole in the music scene of the ’70s with their striking style of leather jackets and pompadours.
The song leaves a powerful impression with Eikichi Yazawa’s vocals—rolling his Rs and singing Japanese almost like English—to convey his impulsive feelings for the one he loves.
In just about two minutes, it condenses the beat of ’50s rock ’n’ roll and a bad-boy allure.
Released in December 1972, it became the title track of their first album, “Louisiana,” released the following year.
It truly rewrote the rules of Japanese rock and heralded the dawn of rock ’n’ roll in Japan.
A Rainy Day in Decemberhappiiendo
Isn’t this a song whose lyrical, beautiful sound conjures up the image of a rain-soaked cityscape? It was Happy End’s very first creation and can be considered the origin of their attempt to make rock music in Japanese.
The episode about lyricist Takashi Matsumoto writing the poem based on scenes he saw in rainy Tokyo in December 1969 is well known.
Rather than using direct words, the method of expressing the inner self through fragments of scenery was truly innovative.
The song was included on the 1970 album “Happy End,” and a single version was released in April 1971.
In recent years, a film project based on this work has also been announced, and its story continues to this day.
It’s a sentimental rock sound, perfect for days when you want to ponder your thoughts in the rain.
Sketch at One A.M.Karumen Maki & OZ
Carmen Maki, who had found success in the folk world, formed Carmen Maki & OZ to unleash her rock spirit.
This track, released in November 1974, was their landmark debut single.
Its lyrics sharply capture the cold loneliness drifting through the city at midnight, delivered in a hard-edged performance powered by Maki’s soul-baring vocals.
Hirofumi Kasuga’s wailing guitar grips the heart as well.
The release paved the way for the subsequent classic album “Carmen Maki & OZ,” which sold over 100,000 copies, opening up a new frontier for Japanese-language rock.
It’s a song perfect for sinking into solitary reflection while gazing at the city lights at night.
DOWN TOWNShugā Beibu
Are you familiar with Sugar Babe, the legendary band that heralded the dawn of city pop and featured Tatsuro Yamashita and Taeko Onuki? This song perfectly captures that heart‑pounding exhilaration of heading out into the city for the weekend.
Its lyrical world, which conjures up glittering urban nights, is colored by a funky clavinet, intricately interwoven guitars, and beautiful choral work.
Released as a single from their sole album, SONGS, in April 1975, the track has been loved across generations: EPO’s cover was used as the ending theme for the TV show “Oretachi Hyōkin-zoku,” and Maaya Sakamoto’s cover served as the theme song for the anime “And Yet the Town Moves.” Nearly 50 years after its release, in April 2025, it made its first-ever entry into the Oricon Weekly Singles Top 10.
It’s a timelessly radiant tune—perfect for a weekend drive or as the soundtrack to a slightly special night.