THE ALFEE is a rock band known for signature songs like “Mary Ann” and “Hoshizora no Distance.”
Ken Sakurai, the main vocalist and bassist, is known for his trademark sunglasses.
Konosuke Sakazaki handles acoustic guitar and vocals, and is widely connected with a variety of musicians.
Toshihiko Takamizawa—familiar from variety shows, with his distinctive shaped guitars and refined style—joined to form the band in 1973.
Starting out as a folk band, their music gradually incorporated elements of rock, metal, and prog, forging a unique style of their own.
Their ensemble playing, which reflects the trust they’ve built over a long career, is fantastic.
Please enjoy a wealth of classic songs from this legendary band that continues to thrive today!
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Popular Songs and Hidden Gems (1–10) Showcasing THE ALFEE’s Outstanding Ensemble
Embraced by the cold winter wind…THE ALFEE
Originally, it was a popular song released by Kyoko Koizumi in 1986, with lyrics and music by Toshihiko Takamizawa of THE ALFEE.
This “Kogarashi ni Dakarete…” is a self-cover in which he arranged the song himself.
It has a fresh charm that’s different from the original.
Love letterTHE ALFEE
This is the song with which THE ALFEE made their re-debut after failing to score hits and temporarily terminating their contract with their record company.
Used in a commercial for “Showa Note,” this track is an early classic that encapsulates THE ALFEE’s charm as a folk group.
Today’s continuation becomes the future.THE ALFEE
Released in 2016 as their 65th single, “Kyou no Tsuzuki ga Mirai ni Naru” (“Today’s Continuation Becomes the Future”) was used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV program “Burari Tochuu Gesha no Tabi.” This song portrays the passage of time with a beautiful worldview and sings about the connection between past, present, and future.
While some may associate THE ALFEE with rock numbers and a harder image, this is a gentle track that helps you relax your shoulders amid busy days or moments of frustration, encouraging you to “go at your own pace.”
Brave Love 〜Galaxy Express 999THE ALFEE
After transferring to Toshiba EMI in 1998, the first release was “Brave Love Galaxy Express 999.” It was selected as the theme song for the anime Galaxy Express 999: Eternal Fantasy.
The lyrics and composition were handled by Toshihiko Takamizawa, and it’s a song whose guitar sound, powerful vocals, and lyrics give you courage.
Distance of the Starry SkyTHE ALFEE
Released in 1984, “Hoshizora no Distance” is famous for having been written around the time THE ALFEE debuted in 1974 and performed during their live house days as an instrumental without lyrics.
Sung by Masaru Sakurai as the lead vocalist, it’s a beloved classic known for its upbeat, catchy melody and rock sound.
On the morning when the bell of hope ringsTHE ALFEE
This is THE ALFEE’s 46th single, released in 1999, featuring their signature melody over a powerful rock sound.
It was selected as the theme song for the TBS drama series “Salaryman Kintaro” starring Katsunori Takahashi.
Just listening to it will fill you with energy.
Mary AnnTHE ALFEE
This is the song “Merianne,” released in 1983, the same year THE ALFEE made their first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics and music were written by member Toshihiko Takamizawa.
It’s a popular track that can be said to have sparked THE ALFEE’s rise in popularity.
With Masaru Sakurai’s vocals and the trio’s harmonies, this classic encapsulates THE ALFEE’s unique world.