[Classic Hits of the 70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials
When it comes to Western music from the 1970s, there were so many timeless classics that are still loved today.
Many of those popular songs have been used in TV commercials in Japan since back then.
And in recent years, quite a few of them have been newly featured in commercials again.
In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive introduction to 1970s Western songs that have been used in commercials so far.
As we gathered the tracks featured in commercials, we ended up with a wonderful collection of masterpieces, so take this opportunity to find some new favorites!
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[Classic Hits of the ’70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials (11–20)
Smoke on the WaterDeep Purple
A song included on Machine Head, the album released in 1972 by the British rock band Deep Purple.
Its introductory guitar riff is world-famous—anyone who plays guitar has probably tried it at least once.
Despite featuring many distinctive guitar riffs throughout, the song is also known as a classic because it carries a catchy vocal melody.
It has been used in commercials for SoftBank and Kirin Beer.
Have You Never Been MellowOlivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John’s 1975 number.
It’s well known in Japan by its Japanese title, “Soyokaze no Yūwaku” (Temptation of a Gentle Breeze).
Her clear, transparent vocals make it a pleasant track, and listening to it somehow feels nostalgic.
It was used in a Lotte Xylitol Gum commercial.
Saturday in the ParkCHICAGO
This song, used in a 2001 Toyota Brevis commercial, is by the American rock band Chicago.
Speaking of Chicago, they’re a rock band known for incorporating a horn section into their lineup.
In this track, you can enjoy a bright brass sound right from the intro, and the clean vocals add to it, making it a song that lifts your spirits as you listen.
It’s included on their 1972 album Chicago V.
KILLING ME SOFTLYRoberta Flack
Roberta Flack’s 1971 hit song.
Its Japanese title is “Yasashiku Utatte” (“Sing Gently”).
Lieberman’s original version, released in 1972, did not become a hit.
However, there’s an anecdote that Roberta Flack happened to hear the song as in-flight background music, liked it, and recorded it, and her version became a major hit.
In Japan, it became very well known as the commercial song for Nescafé Excella instant coffee.
Bridge Over Troubled WaterSimon&Garfunkel
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is an enduring masterpiece released by Simon & Garfunkel.
As this song plays alongside the chronicle of IHI’s corporate activities, it amplifies the power of the visuals and underscores a resolute call for hope.
The 170-year journey built on outstanding technology and continuous innovation evokes the image of a grand bridge stretching across open waters.
Simon & Garfunkel’s clear harmonies seem to point the way forward even now.
Their music, which powerfully conveys technological progress and corporate ideals, is truly a timeless masterpiece loved across generations.
ABCThe Jackson 5
This is a song that was featured in Nissan Liberty commercials from 2002 to 2004.
Some of you may also remember that parody versions of this song were used in commercials for the T&D Insurance Group and AGC.
It’s a track that almost everyone has probably heard, released in 1979 by The Jackson 5, the group formed by brothers including a young Michael Jackson.
With its catchy, sing-along pop melody and groovy bass line, it’s a fun tune that makes you want to move your body as you listen.
[Classic Hits of the ’70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials (21–30)
Your SongElton John
A song by American singer-songwriter Elton John, whose life was portrayed in the 2019 film Rocketman.
Released in 1970 under the Japanese title “Boku no Uta wa Kimi no Uta” (“Your Song”), it became a major hit thanks to its sophisticated blend of jazz and folk and Elton John’s distinctive vocals, and has since been covered and performed by many musicians.
In Japan, it’s a familiar number that has been used in life insurance and car commercials, as well as theme songs for TV dramas.