A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances
A special feature on Japanese folk songs.
Folk music originally began as arrangements of traditional songs and spread in the United States.
From around the 1960s, it was also embraced in Japan, and, reflecting the times, songs with strong anti-war and anti-government messages were delivered.
Entering the 1970s, it became especially popular with more accessible, mainstream themes and reached a peak of commercial success.
Although Japanese folk has evolved to incorporate various elements, it retains an acoustic allure and a wistful mood, with lyrics that stand out and resonate.
By all means, take your time and immerse yourself in Japanese folk music!
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Timeless Classics of Japanese Folk Songs Passed Down Through Guitar-and-Vocal Performances (61–70)
spring’s dry windIzumiya Shigeru
A classic folk song released in 1973.
With a powerful voice and masterful wordplay, it portrays a protagonist who struggles to survive while being buffeted by society.
Included on the album “Light and Shadow,” it is known as one of Shigeru Izumiya’s signature works.
The song is so beloved that there are cover versions by other artists such as Keisuke Kuwata and Masaharu Fukuyama.
Its encouraging lyrics will give you a push before stepping into a new environment.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to rally yourself while feeling the arrival of spring.
Words of FarewellKaientai
It’s a single released by Kaientai in 1979, also famous for becoming a huge hit as the theme song of a TV drama.
With its powerful yet poignant melody and lyrics that give you courage, it has become a staple at events like graduation ceremonies.
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
A song known as a warm anthem that celebrates life’s milestones.
Its powerful vocals gently embrace and encourage those stepping onto a new stage in life.
Included on the album “Kanpai,” released in September 1980, it was later cut as a single and became a hit.
It’s cherished as a staple sung at weddings and graduation ceremonies.
The lyrics carry a wholehearted message of support for people who follow the path they believe in, no matter what difficulties they face.
Listen to it before taking the first step into a new chapter, and walk the path you’ve chosen with courage and hope in your heart.
A Lonely RoomTakagi Asaya
It was released in 1973 as Masasa Takagi’s debut single.
In May 1973, Takagi participated in the 5th Yamaha Popular Song Contest and won a prize with this song, marking her debut.
The song sold over 400,000 copies and earned her the Oricon Newcomer Award.
Imperial Regent Declarationsadamasashi
This is a song that Masashi Sada, who was a member of the duo Grape, released after going solo, and it became a huge hit.
The lyrics are essentially the words a man says when proposing to a woman.
The large volume of lyrics, almost novel-like, is very characteristic of folk music.