A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances

Grand banquetHanbaato Hanbaato

Grand Banquet – Humbert Humbert

While depicting a dazzling banquet, this remarkable piece is in fact singing about a funeral—filled with surprise and warmth.

It is included on the album “Makkurayami no Niramettsuko,” released in June 2008.

Eschewing gloom, it presents a distinctive view of life and death that treats death as a “departure,” which is part of its appeal.

It was also included on the live DVD released in 2015 and re-recorded for the 2018 album “FOLK 2.” Perfect for when you want to face the parting from someone dear with a positive outlook.

So sad I can’t bear itOkuda Tamio

So sad I can’t bear it

This is a deeply evocative track in which Tamio Okuda covers a folk-song standard.

The original’s unique sense of melancholy overlaps with Okuda’s unadorned vocals, resonating deep in the chest.

Rather than forcing the emotion, the guitar plays with a calm yet warmly supportive tone that leaves a strong impression.

It was included as the B-side to the single “Hana ni Naru,” released in March 2002, and has been praised as a hidden masterpiece.

Try listening to it on unbearably lonely nights or when you want to pause for a moment.

It’s sure to make your heart feel a little lighter.

ant (colloquial, little ant)nagira kenichi

Arinko

A signature song by Kenichi Nagira that, using ants as a metaphor for the small presences and efforts of everyday life, sings of life’s hardships and loneliness.

Included on the album “On This Night…” released in July 1993, this piece carries a quiet yet resonant message for listeners.

In a simple folk style centered on guitar, the melody sinks deep into the heart.

The lyrics, characteristically Nagira, blend satire and humor while offering profound insight into human emotions and social issues—part of its allure.

It’s a quietly moving track that makes you want to listen alone on a calm night.

Journey of the Heartchūrippu

TULIP “Kokoro no Tabi” (Lyric Video)

This group was active mainly in the 1970s and shot to fame after releasing this song in 1973.

The song centers on the themes of departure and farewell and remains beloved to this day.

It is also well known for being covered by Eisaku Yoshida, which led to a resurgence in its popularity.

Why am I so sad?yoshida takurou

Why do I feel so sad?

Its hallmark is universal lyrics that the folk generation of the 1970s could easily relate to their own circumstances.

There’s an episode in which someone rushed to a friend whose company had gone bankrupt and sang this song in front of them; the feeling of “still wanting human connection” amid life’s setbacks and loneliness resonated with many.

It’s truly a quintessential folk song! The melody is very simple and easy to remember, making it great for everyone from karaoke beginners to those who want to sing in earnest.

When singing, deliver the A verse more like spoken word without pushing your voice too much—especially in the first verse, where it takes a while to reach the chorus and the talk-like elements may feel long, but if you sing the following chorus solidly to bring the energy up, you can capture the mood of the song nicely.

Try to sing with care for the lyrics!

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Outside, it’s a night of white snow.yoshida takurou

Outside, it’s a night of white snow.

With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Takuro Yoshida, it’s a story depicting a breakup between a man and a woman in a café.

The lyrics alternate between the perspectives of the man and the woman, using symbols like snow, cigarettes, and tears to delicately portray the complex emotions of a selfish man and a woman who accepts everything, as well as their world drifting apart.

It’s a song that continues to be performed live.

It feels far more natural to “narrate” than to “sing.” Because the tempo is a bit quick, I think it’s easier to ride the rhythm and sing if you shape each phrase in an arch right from the opening.

Don’t rush—sing as if you’re speaking the lyrics.

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My good friendyoshida takurou

My good friend

This is a song composed by Takuro Yoshida and made a big hit by Hiroshi Kamayatsu; even people who don’t know Takuro Yoshida likely know the song itself.

With a vibe of “old friends,” “times we laughed together,” and “each of our lives,” the lyrics resonate more deeply as you grow older.

Also, the key changes and rises in the latter half, which lifts your spirits and makes your chest swell the more you sing it.

When singing, focus on the drum sound, ride the rhythm, and hit the opening accents firmly.

Sing it at karaoke or in a snack bar and you’ll probably earn some respect.

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