[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 (31–40)
Stayin’ AliveBee Gees
The 1970s saw a worldwide disco boom—what we’d now call club culture.
As a result, disco music that put everything on “whether you can dance to it” became hugely popular.
Among the many disco songs, the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” is a quintessential example.
It was even used in a Honda Odyssey commercial.
A steady drum beat and a funky bass line underpin the overall rhythm—this is where “danceability” is decided.
On top of that come a catchy guitar riff and a brass section.
And you can’t forget the melodious strings! Whether they’re there or not makes a world of difference.
Disco was also a place to meet people, so creating a sense of romance was important.
That’s why you needed a beautiful melody carried by the strings.
Another hallmark is the male vocal style sung almost entirely in falsetto!
BURNDeep Purple
Japanese title: “Purple Flame.” A signature song of Deep Purple’s Mark III lineup, featuring David Coverdale on vocals, who would later form Whitesnake.
More recently, it became well-known from a Tama Home commercial, and in the past it was used as the commercial song for the Suzuki Swift Sport.
I Can’t Turn You LooseBlues Brothers
A classic by the soul god Otis Redding.
Its Japanese title is “I Won’t Let You Go.” It’s also known as the theme from The Blues Brothers, a melody everyone’s heard.
It was used in a Toyota Corolla Rumion commercial.
Sugar Baby LoveThe Rubettes
The Rubettes are a British group that debuted in 1974.
The intro to this debut single is so famous that you’ve probably heard it everywhere—a high-quality pop song.
It’s well-known from the drama and film “Waterboys.” It was also used in commercials for Asahi Hon-Nama Aqua Blue, Kao Sofina, and Meiji Sugarless Gum Xylish.
I Feel the Earth MoveCarole King
Carole King, a female singer-songwriter who has had a strong influence on Japanese musicians as well.
She’s strongly associated with gentle, expansive songs like “You’ve Got a Friend” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” In “I Feel the Earth Move,” though, you can hear her powerful, sultry side.
It’s well known from the Toyota RAV4 commercial.
The A section is just so cool, with pounding piano and funky rhythm guitar.
In contrast, the chorus showcases her free, expressive vocals in a sexy way.
That contrast gives the track a capricious, little-devil charm!
[Classic Hits of the 70s] A compilation of Western songs used in commercials (41–50)
Raindrops keep falling on my headB.J.Thomas
A hit song by B.J.
Thomas, released in 1970.
It’s a track loved across generations.
It was used in commercials for Nissan Skyline, Sapporo Premium Alcohol Free, and Sanyo’s drum-type washer-dryer.
Its ending section influenced Dreams Come True’s “Haretara ii ne.”
Use MeBill Withers
This is a 2006 commercial for the Tiida, a compact car that emphasizes premium quality.
The gold color scheme is striking, making it a memorable ad after just one viewing.
The BGM is distinctive too—many of you may recognize it.
The song is “Use Me” by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers.
It was included on his 1972 album “Still Bill,” and its characteristic riff really leaves a strong impression.
