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[Shogo Hamada’s Masterpieces] Carefully Selected Hit Songs and Fan Favorites Loved Across Generations!

That summer of that year, those memories… Many people would say their hearts are stirred across time by Shogo Hamada’s singing voice.

As a singer-songwriter who represents Japan’s rock scene, Shogo Hamada has created numerous classic songs.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of his popular tracks—from smash hits everyone knows to hidden gems that enjoy overwhelming support from fans.

Why not immerse yourself in the world woven by his heartfelt lyrics and soothing melodies?

Shogo Hamada’s Masterpieces: Carefully Selected Timeless Hit Songs and Fan Favorites (11–20)

Poem of ImagesHamada Shogo

This is a cover project by Shogo Hamada, born from his deep respect for Takuro Yoshida, the artist he looks up to as a mentor.

Welcoming top-tier international musicians, he boldly reconstructs the original song’s folk sensibility into a weighty blues-rock sound.

The lyrical world, with its sharp gaze on society and humanity, intertwines with Hamada’s passionate vocals—no doubt moving many listeners.

Produced in October 1997 to celebrate Takuro Yoshida’s 50th birthday, the work also features Hamada himself on harmonica.

On a night when you run up against the walls of life, why not listen closely to this hard-hitting sound? You may find something to help you face tomorrow.

Days of DeceptionNEW!Hamada Shogo

Days of Deception (Sand Castle/1983) / Shogo Hamada
Days of DeceptionNEW!Hamada Shogo

This song was written during a period when Shogo Hamada was struggling with lyric writing, and it features weighty, profound lyrics and a worldview characteristic of Hamada.

It’s a classic that continues to be performed live, and the message of “Itsuwari no Hibi” conveys a search for life’s emptiness and truth.

The melody line has an easy-to-follow structure, though it might be a bit on the high side.

If you project your voice with clear enunciation right from the first note, the flow of the melody becomes very smooth.

Also, since you use breath even in the lower range, where and when you inhale is crucial.

Once you’ve inhaled, exhale decisively and completely without hesitation!

Arc de TriompheHamada Shogo

Arc de Triomphe (Welcome back to the ’80s / Short Version)
Arc de TriompheHamada Shogo

This is a beloved classic by Shogo Hamada, included on the 1982 album “PROMISED LAND.” Through the story of a soldier who leaves a loved one for the battlefield and returns exhausted, the song portrays, in a dramatic way, the pain of parting and the heartfelt longing for reunion.

In September 2019, it was re-recorded as his first single in about 14 years, infused with the feelings Hamada himself felt he “hadn’t fully captured at the time.” It’s a moving piece that warmly yet powerfully supports those who, after fighting the battles of life, are striving to return to the place that matters most.

When you are in the time of your life…NEW!Hamada Shogo

This is an early signature work that became a turning point as Shogo Hamada’s first album for which he wrote all the lyrics himself, and it’s packed with fun days spent touring various places with the band! The tempo is very relaxed, so you can sing carefully, and the pitch is easy to follow.

Also, the structure raises the range gradually toward the chorus, so if you build momentum little by little as you sing, your voice will come out smoothly without catching in your throat.

Basically, the place where you produce the voice is the vocal cords, so place a finger in the dip between your collarbones, bring your other hand in front of the vocal cords, and sing as if you’re letting your voice hit your hand in time with the rhythm.

As the pitch gets higher, move your hand farther away—away from the vocal cords—and project your voice toward it.

Until I met youNEW!Hamada Shogo

Until I Met You (Sand Castle/1983) / Shogo Hamada
Until I met youNEW!Hamada Shogo

Although it’s one of Shogo Hamada’s early works, the melody and lyrics are excellent, and the song enjoys strong popularity among fans.

Its simple, early-era sound and melodic sensibility—foreshadowing his later works—shine through, making it a track that conveys the roots of his music, and it’s especially recommended for those who like love songs and ballads! Rather than belting it out fully, you’ll want to sing with a touch of ease.

Instead of projecting your voice far away, try singing as if you’re resonating the sound right in front of your face using your hands—this will bring out a more poignant, aching quality in your voice.

Be mindful to support and project your voice properly.

To my belovedNEW!Hamada Shogo

To my beloved (Sand Castle/1983) / Shogo Hamada
To my belovedNEW!Hamada Shogo

Unusually for a Shogo Hamada song, this is a straightforward, easy-to-understand love ballad brimming with gentleness.

It’s said that “To My Beloved” was a song that came about naturally.

The tempo is relaxed, and the melody line feels calm.

It’s the kind of song you listen to quietly, so it’s recommended for those who want to sing a ballad with emotion.

Make sure you can smoothly hit the high notes at the start of the chorus.

When singing the “i” vowel, be conscious of sending the pitch upward—try raising your hand above your head for support while releasing your voice at the same time.

Relaxation is essential, so using big gestures helps you release tension and makes it easier to sing.

This approach is also great when you want clear enunciation.

[Shogo Hamada’s Masterpieces] Carefully Selected Timeless Hit and Popular Songs (21–30)

The Poet’s BellHamada Shogo

Poet's Bell (ON THE ROAD 2011 “The Last Weekend”)
The Poet’s BellHamada Shogo

This is a powerful message song by Shogo Hamada that sharply cuts into the contradictions of society.

Set against the backdrop of the bubble economy era, it portrays how truly important things were being lost behind material affluence.

Even so, the message that the bell will ring out for those who listen closely to the voice of their souls seems to stir the hearts of listeners.

The track was included on the 1990 album “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and was later released as a single in December 1998 with a new arrangement.

When you feel stifled by the sweeping currents of society, or when you want to stay true to the path you believe in, listening to this song will surely help illuminate the way forward.