RAG MusicRock
Lovely rock

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.

Classic Group Sounds songs. Nostalgic GS hit tracks (41–50)

Sad unrequited loveZa Fenikkusu

Sad Unrequited Love — The Phoenix
Sad unrequited loveZa Fenikkusu

The Phoenix was a band that released two records and was known for its excellent musicianship.

They were a group trained by Takeshi Terauchi, known as the “God of the Electric Guitar.” Their song “Sad Unrequited Love” also makes full use of a wah guitar, applying a wah-wah effect to the guitar sound.

Hey, Mr. BluebirdZa Burakku Sutōnzu

This was their debut single in 1967.

There’s a theory that they served as Jun Mayuzumi’s backing band for a time, but it’s not certain.

The song has a Beatles-esque feel to it and I think it’s a good tune, but it didn’t sell very well.

Above all, it seems the band members didn’t get along, and in the end they stopped after this one song.

They later changed members, renamed themselves The Sherrys, and released “Omoide no Sherry,” but they were again on bad terms, and ultimately it didn’t sell either.

Seaside stone stepsJakkī Yoshikawa to Burū Komettsu

Released in 1969, “Kaigan no Ishidan” features harmonies and a Showa-era feel that’s quite pleasant, but it didn’t sell very well because the impression left by their 1967 Japan Record Award-winning song “Blue Chateau” was simply too strong.

Even so, they were a leading, highly skilled group within the GS scene, well received by the public, and were invited to perform on NHK’s Red and White Song Battle alongside The Wild Ones.

Live for loveReo Bītsu

They were a group active mainly around Hakata in Kyushu.

When they made their major-label debut, they were named Leo Beats after the Seibu Lions—whose home base was in Fukuoka at the time—and appeared as a Group Sounds band promoting Latin rock.

This “Living for Love” was the B-side to their debut single, “Marianne in the Mist,” and it’s a song with a sharp, dynamic contrast.

Sky and seaZa Kingusu

The Kings / Sora to Umi (The Sky and the Sea)
Sky and seaZa Kingusu

A signature song by The Kings, it portrays life and emotions through the grandeur of the sky and sea.

Characterized by a fresh, pleasant melody, its charm lies in a sound that blends pop and folk elements.

Released in 1967, it was used widely on television and radio.

While influenced by The Beatles, this work established its own musical identity and brought a breath of fresh air amid the Group Sounds boom.

The lyrics, contrasting vast nature with human emotions, leave a deep impression on listeners.

It’s a perfect song for those nostalgic for their youth or standing at a crossroads in life.

Forever and everZa Sabeji

This song is the debut single by The Savage, released in 1966.

At the time of their debut, Atsushi Terao was a member as the bassist and vocalist.

Although the band disbanded two years later, they scored hits with this song and others such as “Kono Tenohira ni Ai wo.” The song was later used in 1997 as a commercial jingle for Sekisui House.

Two Shores of UsZa Shaawuddo

The Sher Wood / Futari no Nagisa (“The Beach for Two”) Side A & B
Two Shores of UsZa Shaawuddo

This song by The Sherwoods, influenced by Group Sounds, evokes the tender romances of youth.

Released in 1969, it features lyrics that depict a couple spending time together on the beach, and its poignant melody captured the hearts of young people in the Showa era.

Based out of the jazz café Oscar in Sakae, Nagoya, The Sherwoods made a significant mark on Japan’s youth culture and music scene with this work, successfully spreading their name.

It’s a perfect track to listen to while strolling along the summer seaside, and it’s also recommended for those who want to reminisce about fond memories.