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[The Legend of Heisei and Makuhari] GLAY’s Best Collection of Popular Songs and Hidden Gems

Across Japan, especially throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the nation was swept up in GLAY fever.

At their outdoor concert held at Makuhari Messe in 1999, they set an unprecedented record by drawing 200,000 attendees, etching their name forever as a nationally beloved rock band.

Even as time has passed since then, many people find that whenever songs like “BELOVED,” “Yuuwaku,” and “HOWEVER” play, memories of their youth come flooding back.

In this article, we revisit GLAY’s iconic tracks that blazed through the Heisei era and explore their timeless appeal.

[Legend of Heisei and Makuhari] GLAY’s Best Collection of Popular Songs and Hidden Gems (11–20)

Together forever…GLAY

5th single.

A double A-side single with “GONE WITH THE WIND.” For many, this is the song that comes to mind when thinking of GLAY’s early ballads.

With its striking piano, it’s the very epitome of a classic ballad, and the lyrics are perfect for weddings.

SOUL LOVEGLAY

The 14th single.

Released simultaneously with “Temptation,” it dominated the Oricon charts, taking the top two spots.

According to guitarist TAKURO, “After I finished ‘Temptation,’ I was asked to write one more song, and I completed it in 10 minutes.” His talent never ceases to amaze.

Beginning with a poppy intro, it’s a classic that appeals to everyone.

MUSIC LIFENEW!GLAY

The album “MUSIC LIFE,” released in November 2014 to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut.

Its title track, which closes the album, is a fast-paced rock number composed by JIRO with lyrics by TAKURO.

The powerful band sound riding an 8-beat groove and the layered chorus featuring all the members convey their unwavering passion for music and the deep bonds among them that have remained unchanged since their Hakodate days.

It was also chosen as the opening theme for Hokkaido Television Broadcasting’s program “Hanatare NACS,” hinting at their affection for their hometown.

Distilling both their journey so far and their present-tense brilliance, this work is sure to give courage to everyone who keeps chasing their dreams.

Why not listen again to this masterpiece that boldly resounds with the very way of life of the band?

TWO BELL SILENCENEW!GLAY

GLAY / TWO BELL SILENCE (from JIRO Produce Live 2009)
TWO BELL SILENCENEW!GLAY

It’s sung over a driving, high-velocity beat that channels an inexpressible sense of impatience and the struggles of youth.

Rough-hewn yet bursting with fiery energy unique to their indie days, this piece captures the primal spark of a rock band’s early impulse.

In addition to being included on the indie album “Ashes and Diamonds,” released in May 1994, you can also enjoy a re-recorded, rearranged version on the 2009 best-of album “THE GREAT VACATION VOL.2 ~SUPER BEST OF GLAY~.” For longtime fans, it’s likely a cherished track that revives memories of their live-house era.

It’s perfect for cranking up the energy on a drive or blowing away a foul mood.

Immerse yourself in this classic that conveys an unchanging soul even as the band continues to evolve.

fatalismNEW!GLAY

A heartwarming human ballad that sings of the preciousness of human connection, themed around everyday greetings and words of gratitude.

Composed by JIRO with lyrics by TAKURO, the song was released in December 2012 as their 47th single.

It was selected as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri!!” for January 2013, and also drew attention for featuring Pierre Nakano of Ling tosite sigure on drums.

Later included on the album “JUSTICE,” this track blends grand strings with a full band sound, creating a stadium-filling sense of scale.

It reminds you how precious the everyday can be, so why not listen while thinking of your family and friends?

BEAUTIFUL DREAMERGLAY

The 28th single is a fast-paced rock number featuring strings.

It’s also a staple at live shows and a crowd-pleaser, making it very popular.

The bittersweet melody is quintessential GLAY and simply excellent, and the repeatedly sung chorus never gets old—truly impressive.

[The Legend of Heisei and Makuhari] GLAY’s Best Collection of Popular Songs and Hidden Gems (21–30)

Run, Future!GLAY

GLAY / Run, Future! (Miracle Music Hunt Forever 5/31 Ver.)
Run, Future!GLAY

Opening theme for the anime Ace of Diamond.

TERU has publicly said he’s a fan of Ace of Diamond, and he was reportedly very happy about the tie-in.

It’s a rock number brimming with a refreshing energy that perfectly suits the anime.

Highly recommended for those who want to hear one of GLAY’s relatively newer up-tempo tracks.