A classic Group Sounds song. A nostalgic GS hit.
From the nostalgic Group Sounds era, our studio staff present their recommended classics and fan favorites.
It’s a throwback playlist that’s sure to heat you up the moment you press play.
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Classic nostalgic hits: A collection of youth songs
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- [1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
- Legendary Japanese rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 1960s
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s
- Classic and popular blues songs to sing at karaoke
- [2026 Edition] Songs Loved by People in Their 60s: Classic Hits from Their Youth
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.
- Classic and hit kayōkyoku songs from the nostalgic 1960s
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Hit songs in Japan in the late 1960s
A classic Group Sounds hit. Nostalgic GS hit songs (71–80)
Sun punkTerauchi Takeshi & Banīzu
This was the second group formed by Takeshi Terauchi, known as the God of Electric Guitar.
When you listen to the song, your body naturally starts moving to the rhythm.
Terauchi’s electric guitar in the instrumental break is, as expected, truly outstanding! The song was used as an insert track in Taiyo Yaro, a TV drama starring Yosuke Natsuki that aired in 1967, so those familiar with that era may recognize it.
Live for todayZa Tenputāzu
This is the B-side of their debut single, “Wasureenu Kimi,” released in 1967.
Its distinctive electric guitar intro is also shared with the big hit “Kamisama Onegai.” Despite being a B-side, it feels strong enough to stand as an A-side, and the chorus phrase is quite memorable.
Loving La La LaZa Fenikkusu
Their debut single, produced by Takeshi Terauchi and released in 1968, features a slightly rock-influenced performance and, as the title suggests, has a catchy groove, but it didn’t quite become a hit.
Nevertheless, they were popular as a highly skilled group in jazz cafés in Yokohama and Tokyo, and among Terauchi’s projects, they were the most profitable band.
Tales of Fallen LeavesZa Taigāsu
This “Fallen Leaves Story” is the B-side to the signature song “Only for You,” but its image changes dramatically, making it a very charming piece.
Julie—Kenji Sawada—had such outstanding vocal ability that even Noriko Awaya, known as the strict Queen of Blues, acknowledged his talent; it seems he already stood out in that era.
In conclusion
We introduced a variety of classic songs categorized as Group Sounds and the bands that played them.
While influenced by rock, you can also feel elements of kayōkyoku and folk, which gives a sense of Japan’s unique musical character.
Learning about the popular culture and the era of the time alongside the music will deepen your understanding of these songs, so it’s highly recommended.
It also seems interesting to focus on what the members went on to achieve after their time in these bands.