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Debut songs by Japanese male artists from the 1970s

We’re showcasing the debut songs of Japanese male artists who started their careers in the 1970s.

From top idol singers like the “New Big Three” — Hideki Saijo, Hiromi Go, and Goro Noguchi — to many others.

It was also an era when the foundation of Japanese music was built, centered around folk songs and New Music.

There are still many singers from that time who remain active today!

Beyond the allure of the era’s backdrop, I think it’s wonderful that their music still feels fresh even now.

Let’s listen to the debut songs of male artists who debuted in the 1970s!

Debut songs by Japanese male artists from the 1970s (31–40)

If it’s only onceNomura Masaki (Nomura Masaki)

Only Once — Song: Masaki Nomura (Masaki Nomura) — With Lyrics
If it's only onceNomura Masaki (Nomura Masaki)

It was released in 1970 as Masaki Nomura’s debut single.

The song was originally planned for Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five.

At the time of Nomura’s debut as a singer, his catchphrase was “The Young Lion of the Kayō (Enka) World.” With this song, he won the Broadcast Music Newcomer Award at the 1st Japan Kayō Awards, and the Newcomer Award at the 3rd Japan Cable Music Awards in December.

He also made his first appearance at the 21st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

tearful; moved to tearsKadokawa Hiroshi

Hiroshi Kadokawa sang at clubs in Nagarekawa, the entertainment district of his hometown Hiroshima, and in Hakata, Fukuoka.

He was scouted while performing in Nakasu, and made his debut as a singer in 1976 with this song.

At the 18th Japan Record Awards, he won the New Artist Award, and at the 9th Japan Cable Music Awards, he also received the New Artist Award, among others, making it a massive hit that swept the newcomer prizes.

In conclusion

We’ve put together a roundup of debut songs by Japanese male artists who began their solo careers in the 1970s.

Many of these singers are still very active today, so their music should feel familiar to a wide range of generations.

You might know their hit songs but not their debuts—so we hope this serves as a helpful reference when you want to look them up!