A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.

Wonderful DaysUNICORN

Unicorn - Wonderful Days

Released in April 1993, this UNICORN track poignantly sings about drifting apart from close friends, set to a gentle melody that cushions themes of parting and change.

Born from differences in musical direction among the members, the song is imbued with Tamio Okuda’s unique charm—quiet on the surface yet suffused with bittersweet emotion.

In addition to reaching No.

6 on the Oricon charts, it also touched a wide audience as the theme song for the film “Hinagon” and in a Sony commercial.

It’s a gem I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone sensing shifts in important relationships or seeking calm, reflective insight in everyday life.

Singin’ in the Rainthe pillows

Singin' in the Rain / the pillows

In May 1991, the pillows included an ambitious track—marking their major-label debut—on the album Moon Gold.

The story begins as the protagonist arrives in a rain-soaked city in search of a new life, vividly capturing a page of youth as they set out on a journey of self-discovery despite loneliness and anxiety.

Inspired by the American film Singin’ in the Rain, the song blends bright, buoyant melodies with energetic performance to create a hopeful piece.

Sawao Yamanaka’s impassioned vocals, together with the layered sound crafted by the entire band, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a song that gently gives you a push when you’re ready to face forward and take a new step.

Snow in MarchMakihara Noriyuki

Snow in March (Live)

A coming-of-age ballad that captures a spring scene 20 days after graduation.

With a gentle melody and tender vocals, it conveys young people’s anxiety and anticipation about change, as well as the fleeting time spent with cherished friends.

Against the backdrop of unseasonal snowfall, the image of walking shoulder to shoulder with friends is portrayed in a way that deeply resonates.

Included on Noriyuki Makihara’s album “Kimi wa Dare to Shiawase na Akubi o Shimasu ka.” released in September 1991, this song is captivating for its calm, warm poetic worldview.

It is a masterpiece to listen to with the arrival of spring—one that offers solace to those experiencing the complex emotions that accompany life’s turning points and the feelings stirred by ever-changing days.

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai

A gem-like ballad that delicately portrays the pain of heartbreak and the hope of taking a new step forward.

Noriyuki Makihara’s gentle vocals tenderly envelop the protagonist’s complex feelings as they struggle to accept a breakup with their lover.

While carefully depicting the loneliness and confusion felt in everyday life, it also resonates with the positive resolve hidden behind the words “I won’t fall in love anymore.” Released in May 1992, the song was used as the theme for the drama “After the Children Are Asleep,” reaching No.

2 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.

7 for the year.

It’s a song that stands as emotional support, accompanying you through the healing process of a broken heart.

Is spring here yet?Hamada Masatoshi

Is spring here yet?

Produced by Tamio Okuda, this song centers on themes of travel and self-discovery, leaving a memorable impression with its warm atmosphere that gently embraces the feelings of a solitary traveler.

With delicate wording, it depicts a man striving to find his true self within the vast expanse of the universe.

Released in December 1997, the track was featured as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR Ski Ski” and became a popular hit, reaching No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Okuda’s signature simple, comfortable melodies beautifully capture the longing for spring’s arrival, making it a song that resonates with those looking forward to a new season and those setting out to walk their own path.

Choo Choo TRAINZoo

ZOO Choo Choo TRAIN PV.flv

The JR East “JR Ski Ski” commercial song.

I think many people remember this track when they go skiing with their club or friends.

It was also covered by EXILE and has been loved for a long time.

Its upbeat tempo and groove let you bask in fun memories.

CHA-CHA-CHAIshii Akemi

CHA-CHA-CHA / Akemi Ishii

Released in June 1986, this song was Akemi Ishii’s debut single and became widely known as the theme for the TBS drama “Danjo 7-nin Natsu Monogatari” (Seven Men and Women: Summer Story).

It topped the Oricon singles chart for nine consecutive weeks and sold over 580,000 copies.

Embraced by Japanese listeners as Latin-style disco music, it became a social phenomenon, amplified by the atmosphere of the bubble era.

Featuring lyrics that depict the free and liberated life of young women and a bright, catchy melody, the song expresses a passion for dance and a sense of release—an irresistibly uplifting track that can truly be called a symbol of youth.