Masatoshi Hamada and Hitoshi Matsumoto of Downtown have left an indelible mark on Japanese television history and continue to captivate many fans to this day.
While the two are strongly associated with their image as comedians, did you know they have also pursued musical activities? Their songs brim with a variety of charms, from tracks filled with humor to ones with heartwarming lyrics.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs released under the Downtown name, each of their solo works, as well as tracks from the units they’ve participated in.
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Songs performed by Downtown: Classic tracks released as solos or units (1–10)
boyGEISHA GIRLS
Composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto, this nostalgic number was released under the name GEISHA GIRLS.
Issued in May 1995 as their second single, the track also appears on the album “THE GEISHA GIRLS SHOW – Honō no Ossan Hour,” released the same day.
Over a soothing, wistful melody, the duo Downtown sing about summer memories from a boyhood that will never return.
The poignant worldview—enhanced by the contrast with their usual comedic image—deeply moves listeners.
It’s a perfect song for those sentimental moments when you want to reflect on days gone by.
WOW WAR TONIGHT ~Sometimes You Gotta Make a MovementH Jungle with T
H Jungle with t is a music unit formed by Masatoshi Hamada of the comedy duo Downtown and music producer Tetsuya Komuro.
Their debut single, released in February 1995, was a massive hit and became a social phenomenon.
This work is an anthem that lights a fire in the hearts of those who question the monotony of everyday life and wish to change something.
Rather than settling for the status quo, it delivers a powerful message to take action and create a movement, which truly resonates.
It’s an energetic track you’ll want to listen to when you’re tired from work or daily life and want to gain fresh strength for tomorrow with your friends.
Welcome Down Towndauntaun
It’s an ‘80s-style pop tune with a comfortable ensemble that features sparkling synthesizer tones.
In this song, the joy and gratitude of meeting someone you love are expressed in a straightforward way.
It’s about honestly appreciating the other person’s kindness and acting with the pure motivation of simply liking them.
The lyrics vividly evoke the image of a devoted protagonist, making it a captivating number.
This track was included on the album “GOBU・GOBU,” released in November 1988.
It’s a heartwarming song that’s perfect as BGM for a drive date with someone special—sure to heighten both of your feelings.
Metrodauntaun
It’s a track that showcases a serious side, distinct from the cheerful persona you see on TV.
Originally released by Downtown in 1991 and later included on the album “Manriki no Kuni,” this song feels like it paints the inner landscapes of people living in the corners of the city.
Swaying on the subway, reflecting on a love that has passed—its quiet ache and sense of solitude are conveyed through the straightforward, unadorned vocals of Masatoshi Hamada and Hitoshi Matsumoto, without relying on technical showmanship.
The lyrics capture those moments when ordinary scenes take on a sentimental hue, gently touching the listener’s heartstrings.
It’s the kind of song that lets you sink deeply into its world on a night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, or during a rainy commute.
Can you be alone?dauntaun
He puts on a brave face, but deep down he wants someone by his side.
Isn’t this a song that captures that kind of complicated male heart? Sung by the duo Downtown—better known for their comedy—it conveys a human, deeply poignant melancholy that’s different from straightforward humor.
The track was the B-side to the single “Yūhi Kazoku,” released in October 1989, and was later included on the 1991 album “Manriki no Kuni.” Composed by Ryūdō Uzaki, the melody carries a hint of the blues, highlighting the protagonist’s clumsy kindness.
If you listen to it on a quiet night while drinking alone, it might make that tough exterior soften—just a little.
Love letterHamada Masatoshi
This piece features lyrics penned by broadcast writer Kosei Takasu, set to music by his close friend Tamio Okuda.
Released in November 2012 as a bonus with the magazine SWITCH, it appeared as a solo track by Masatoshi Hamada.
It’s a memorable number whose lyrics depict dreams and friendship, evoking images of Downtown in their younger days.
The work conjures vivid, realistic scenes—the smell of the curtain, the sounds backstage—and anyone who’s ever thrown themselves headlong toward a goal will likely see themselves in it.
It’s a pop-rock song whose story recalls nights spent talking about dreams with old friends, touching the heart with a warmth tinged with a gentle poignancy.
Be happyHamada Masatoshi
This is the second solo work by Masatoshi Hamada of Downtown, featuring a gently poignant melody that truly touches the heart.
It sings of a bittersweet yet profound kindness—wishing happiness for someone you’ve parted ways with.
Hamada’s slightly unpolished but warm vocals align with the protagonist’s earnest feelings, and before you know it, your chest tightens as you listen.
Released in June 1999 as part of a segment on the TV program “Let’s Become Popular!” it debuted impressively at No.
4 on the Oricon charts.
The track is also included on the concept album “Las Vegas: First-Class Trip.” It’s a heartwarming song perfect for those who cherish a love that has passed, or for quiet nights when you find yourself softly wishing for someone else’s happiness.