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.
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Dawn of Japanese Rock: A Compilation of Debut Songs by 1970s Japanese Rock Bands (31–40)
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Released in November 1979, this was Crystal King’s debut single, and it was also included on their first album, “Crystal King,” released in May 1980.
The band had originally made a provisional debut in 1976 with a cover song, then went on hiatus, and made their official comeback with this track, “Daitokai.” Known for its approachable melody and striking high-tone vocals, it remains a song frequently heard today in commercials and as a cover by other artists.
Grab the gun!zunou keisatsu
Released in May 1972, this song is included on Zunou Keisatsu’s debut album, Zunou Keisatsu Second, and is considered their debut track because it appears as the first track.
In fact, an album known as the “phantom” debut, Zunou Keisatsu 1, was scheduled for release in March of the same year, but its lyrics were deemed too extreme, and the release was canceled just before it went on sale.
The band disbanded in 1975, but reunited in 2001, and the previously canceled “phantom” album Zunou Keisatsu 1 was finally released 30 years later.
Sentimental Streethachimitsu pai
Released in October 1973, this song is included on Hachimitsu Pie’s debut album Sentimental Dori.
It was originally supposed to be released as their debut single, but due to various circumstances they ended up debuting with the album, so this track is often regarded as their debut song.
With its slow tempo and calm feel, the piece was created from a perspective different from folk music and truly became a cornerstone of Japanese rock.
Cycling BoogieSadisutikku Mika Bando
Released in 1972, this was the debut single by the Sadistic Mika Band, and it was also included on their first album, “SADISTIC MIKA BAND,” released in May 1973.
The band was formed around Kazuhiko Kato, formerly a member of The Folk Crusaders, and it also featured Yukihiro Takahashi, who would later be a member of Yellow Magic Orchestra.
In addition, the drummer on this debut track, “Cycling Boogie,” was Hiro Tsunoda, who is now active as a singer-songwriter.
Unknowingly / A No-Good Woman’s Four-and-a-Half Tatami RoomDaun Taun Bugiugi Bando
Released in December 1973, this was the debut single by the Down-Town Boogie-Woogie Band, and it was also included on their first album, Datsu-Donzoko, released in May 1974.
The rock band was formed under the leadership of Ryudo Uzaki, who is now active as an actor and composer, and its long name was chosen to rival established groups like the Sadistic Mika Band, which already had a long band name.
In addition, their signature song Minato no Yoko, Yokohama, Yokosuka was not the title track (A-side) but was released as the B-side (coupling track) to Kakkoman Boogie.
In conclusion
Looking back at the lineage of Japanese rock from the 1970s, many bands made a powerful impression with their debut songs while leaving a significant mark on the development of the J-ROCK scene that followed.
Among the sounds that continue to be loved across generations are numerous timeless masterpieces that still exert a clear influence on contemporary music.
A new encounter with music that resonates with your heart is sure to enrich your musical life.