RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

ELLEGARDEN's classic and popular songs

Each member is currently active in a different band.

Vocalist/guitarist Takeshi Hosomi once lived in the United States, is fluent in English, and has many songs with English lyrics.

ELLEGARDEN announced a hiatus in 2008 to much regret, but they resumed activities in 2018!

With new releases and a return to live touring, they have been drawing renewed attention.

This time, we’re spotlighting their hits and classic tracks.

As a fan myself, I’ve carefully selected these songs.

Tell me your favorites, too!

Enjoy!

ELLEGARDEN’s classic and popular songs (11–20)

rainbowELLEGARDEN

ELLEGARDEN “Rainbow”
rainbowELLEGARDEN

It seems the inspiration for this song came from a rainbow they saw together with Gotoh from ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, who is a close friend of the band.

The song sings about the strength of a person who can keep everything as memories.

Drummer Takahashi’s gesture of placing his hand on his head during the performance, as if checking his memories, is particularly striking.

WannabiesELLEGARDEN

A mellow-tempo song that gives you a gentle boost when you read the Japanese translation: ELLEGARDEN’s “Wannabes.” It’s included on their second album, “BRING YOUR BOARD!,” released in 2003.

It’s a motivational anthem with a vibe like, “We can always become whatever we want to be!” The lyrics name-drop lots of famous people like Michael Jordan, Brad Pitt, and Jimi Hendrix.

ButterflyELLEGARDEN

[PV] Ellegarden – Butterfly – .flv
ButterflyELLEGARDEN

“Butterfly,” included on ELLEGARDEN’s third album “Peparoni Quattro,” released in 2004.

It’s from the period when ELLEGARDEN was gradually gaining popularity, and the album has no filler, with many tracks they often play live.

This song is aimed at people who, in their youth, feel the frustration of not being able to do what they want, or who hesitate to move forward out of fear of failure.

(Can’t remember) How We Used To BeELLEGARDEN

(Can’t Remember)How We Used To Be [MUSIC VIDEO]
(Can't remember) How We Used To BeELLEGARDEN

Are there really people who can respond so coolly to someone they’ve broken up with? The lyrics rush forward with a cool stride and are incredibly encouraging, making this a recommended song for anyone looking to bounce back from heartbreak.

It’s a hidden fan favorite that’s also included on the best-of album.

A Thousand SmilesELLEGARDEN

It’s included on their debut single “Bare Foot.” The lyrics are gentle and a little bittersweet, reminiscent of a first love.

The song is mid-tempo with an accessible melody.

Although it hasn’t been included on any album, it’s very popular among fans.

knifeELLEGARDEN

This is “Knife,” included on ELLEGARDEN’s debut album, ELLEGARDEN.

Both the musical style, lyrics, and vocals feel youthful—very much early ELLEGARDEN.

It has a gentle, subdued melody and simple lyrics.

It’s a song that feels like your heart is being carried away by something or someone: waiting vaguely for someone who’s gone far away, thinking of them, and doing your best to get through each day.

ELLEGARDEN’s classic and popular songs (21–30)

JitterbugELLEGARDEN

Jitterbug [MUSIC VIDEO Live ver]
JitterbugELLEGARDEN

It’s a song that radiates youth.

When it was released, it sent an immeasurable shock through high schoolers at the time.

Its charm lies in the lyrics that rhyme while sounding like they’re speaking to oneself, but because the first and second verses are so similar, it’s also famous for Hosomi often messing up the words.

It makes you want to jump without thinking.