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[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!

[Classic Hits of the ’70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials (21–30)

Kirin SPRING VALLEY Silk Ale <White> 'Dawn' Version

Piano ManBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Piano Man (Official HD Video)
Piano ManBilly Joel

Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” released in 1973 and included on several albums, is one of his signature songs.

The fact that “Piano Man” is also known as a nickname for Billy Joel shows just how big a hit the song was.

As the title suggests, the piano takes center stage, and when his soaring vocals layer over it, the result is a moving atmosphere.

In Japan, it was used in a commercial for Kirin’s Spring Valley Silk Ale, where the pairing with the song further emphasizes the emotional impact.

Heart of GlassBlondie

A hit song by Blondie, the American band fronted by female vocalist Debbie Harry.

It was released in 1979.

The song was used in commercials for Toyota’s AQUA, H&M (featuring Miranda Kerr), and Noevir cosmetics.

Long Train Runnin’Doobie Brothers

A 1973 release by The Doobie Brothers.

Its intro guitar cutting is particularly memorable, and commercials always start from that intro, don’t they? It’s been used in car-related ads, such as Toyota’s “Chaser” and SUBARU commercials.

Thats the way a Woman isMessengers

Messengers “Thats the way a Woman is” stereo (1971)
Thats the way a Woman isMessengers

A hit song by The Messengers, released in 1971.

The Japanese title is “That Girl on My Mind.” You’ve probably heard the “Ah-ah-ahhh” phrase at least once, right? It was used in commercials for Asahi Beer’s Aqua Zero, Kirin Beverage’s FIRE, and Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Amino-Value.

loving youMinnie Riperton

A classic 1974 hit by Minnie Riperton, memorable for its beautiful melody.

Ann Lewis’s cover was used in a commercial for the cosmetics brand Noevir, and moumoon’s cover appeared in Kao’s Sofina jenne campaign, among many other artist covers featured in various ads.

Her sweet, bittersweet vocals are sure to make your heart flutter.

Joy To The WorldThree dog night

Three Dog Night’s 1970 hit song.

In Japan, it’s known as “Joy to the World.” It was the theme song for the Monday 9 p.m.

drama ‘Lunch Queen’ starring Yūko Takeuchi.

It has also been used in commercials, including Asahi Beer’s “Beer Water” and Suzuki’s “Wagon R” featuring Christel Takigawa, making it a highly recognized song in Japan.

Boogie WonderlandEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – Boogie Wonderland (Official Video)
Boogie WonderlandEarth, Wind & Fire

A 1979 number by Earth, Wind & Fire.

It’s a classic disco track.

The Emotions, who were fully backed by Earth, Wind & Fire at the time, participated as backing vocalists.

It was used as the theme song for Asahi Super Dry commercials.