Inoue Yosui’s classic and popular songs
Let me introduce you to the works of Yosui Inoue, a heavyweight of the J-pop world and a defining artist of the Showa era.
Speaking of Yosui Inoue, he has many famous songs such as “Shonen Jidai” (A Boy’s Summer), “Riverside Hotel,” and “Yume no Naka e” (Into a Dream).
In particular, many people may have sung “Shonen Jidai” during elementary school music class.
Inoue, whose music is deeply ingrained in the Japanese music scene, was apparently a well-known Beatles fanatic in his student days, and some of his songs show that influence.
Incidentally, his real name is the same as his stage name, “Yosui,” but it’s read as “Akimi.” He changed the reading to “Yosui” for his stage name, reportedly to create a strong impact to rival Takuro Yoshida—his contemporary and sort of rival—whose name “Takuro” had a striking ring to it.
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Inoue Yosui’s masterpieces and popular songs (21–30)
The Meandering TownInoue Yosui
It’s a song that feels very Inoue Yosui—imbued with an indescribable pathos and the loneliness of the night.
Meisō suru Machi (The Meandering Town) is included on his sixth album, White, released in 1978, and it might be a track only devoted fans are familiar with.
When you think of Yosui and rain, many probably recall the classic mega-hit Kasaga Nai (I Don’t Have an Umbrella), but the rain depicted in Meisō suru Machi evokes a different image altogether.
As for singing it, it’s not particularly difficult; if you let the melody flow over a relaxed 6/8 rhythm, you can savor it comfortably.
To bring out the world of the lyrics, it might be good to sing as if you’re telling a story, drawing listeners into its narrative.
Liar DiamondInoue Yosui
“Usotsuki Diamond” (Lying Diamond) is a single by Yosui Inoue released in 1995.
You could call it the magic of Inoue’s lyrics—there’s a very mysterious world unfolding.
On the album, it has a jazzy feel and it’s really cool!
New RhapsodyInoue Yosui
A 1986 single by Yosui Inoue that was featured in an ANA commercial.
Even now it sounds stylish and sparkling, yet the mature world he sings about is wonderful as ever.
The way he expresses feelings for a loved one so beautifully and dreamily is truly unique to Inoue.
The airy, pleasant mood—like the guitar riff in the interlude—feels as if you’re traveling through the sky.
The resonance and words carried by the simple sound are exquisitely beautiful.
It was sunny on Saturday.Inoue Yosui
This is a track from the 1994 album “Eien no Surreal.” It has a dreamy, whimsical atmosphere that conjures up memories of childhood games and nostalgic, picturesque scenes.
The distinctive vocals match perfectly, creating a mood that feels like it transports you to another dimension.
The latest newsInoue Yosui
The lyrics are very specific, and the way they flow as if speaking makes it hard to catch up once you lose the rhythm.
Since the melody line is steady, it might be a song that only selected people whose vocal skills and tone match can truly pull off—but that’s exactly why it looks so cool if you can sing it.
Blues for You and MeInoue Yosui
That stylish vibe is cool.
The lyrics in the chorus are indescribably good.
Even though the tune is upbeat, the lyrics have a kind of darkness that makes you think.
In the middle of the song, the tempo changes drastically and slows down, and that, too, is inexplicably fun.
Tears aren’t just for show.Inoue Yosui
The one-of-a-kind singer-songwriter Yosui Inoue.
His self-cover of “Kazarijanai no yo Namida wa” is a classic that represents the Showa era.
It’s a track brimming with a mature allure, offering a different flavor from the original.
It’s sure to liven up any karaoke session.