Shigeru Izumiya’s classic and popular songs
Let me introduce the music of Shigeru Izumiya, a singer-songwriter who is also active as an actor.
He made his debut as a singer in 1971 and worked alongside artists like RC Succession, Yosui Inoue, and Takuro Yoshida.
Izumiya began his acting career in 1979, and these days many people may primarily recognize him as an actor.
Although he mainly sings folk songs, he originally played rock with an electric guitar.
However, in his teens, a fire destroyed all his equipment, including his guitar and amp, which led him to switch to an acoustic guitar and start performing folk music.
Now, please enjoy Shigeru Izumiya’s deep, rugged singing voice.
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Shigeru Izumiya’s Best and Most Popular Songs (1–10)
Lock of DIzumiya Shigeru
A signature song by Shigeru Izumiya that skillfully fuses elements of folk and rock.
It features powerful guitar and passionate vocals.
Included on the 1973 album “Our Failure,” its lyrics—depicting youthful rebellion and a thirst for freedom—resonated with listeners.
Loved across generations, this track is a staple of Izumiya’s live shows.
Perfect for when you want to feel that fiery rock spirit or when you’re questioning established values.
The more you listen, the more it strikes a chord—an enduring classic.
Detroit pokerIzumiya Shigeru
Performed on a stage wrapped in heat, this piece rises like flames of passion.
While exuding the presence of a rock band that transcends the bounds of folk, it overflows with an energy that seizes the listener’s heart.
Released on the 1977 album Rock ’n’ Roll Heart, this track leaves a strong impression with its liberated expression of youth—made possible by the special setting of a campus festival live performance—and once you hear it, you’ll be drawn into the shared sense of unity of the moment.
Its timeless appeal, which has captivated countless music fans across generations, continues to enchant new listeners even today.
puka-pukaIzumiya Shigeru
This is a classic song known for its light, catchy melody and lyrics that resonate with the heart.
Included on the album “Outdated Rock’n’Roll Band,” released in 1975, it is beloved by many fans as one of Shigeru Izumiya’s signature songs.
Imbued with a message that cherishes the small happinesses of everyday life, this work brings warmth to listeners’ hearts.
The unique quality of Izumiya’s vocals combined with the simple melody creates a world that soothes those who hear it.
It’s a recommended track for taking a breather amid busy days.
Shigeru Izumiya’s classic and popular songs (11–20)
Song of the Yoito-makeIzumiya Shigeru
Set against the backdrop of Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, this classic song depicts the growth and hope of a child from a poor construction worker’s family.
Written by Akihiro Miwa and later covered by Shigeru Izumiya, the song portrays a journey of overcoming social discrimination and prejudice, learning from the hardworking example of the child’s mother, and ultimately achieving success.
Released as a single by King Records in 1965, it became a major hit, selling 400,000 copies.
Izumiya’s cover, released in 1998, was also featured on Fuji TV’s “News JAPAN.” His powerful vocals and distinctive guitar playing vividly convey the song’s strength and sense of hope.
Rock ’n’ roll costs money.Izumiya Shigeru
This song is packed with the rock spirit of the Showa era.
Shigeru Izumiya’s distinctive voice pairs perfectly with the acoustic sound.
Released in 1988, it sharply portrays the gap between passion for rock and reality.
Chisato Moritaka’s drumming and Yosuke Eguchi’s guitar give the track both power and delicacy.
The lyrics, overflowing with love for music, are sure to resonate with anyone chasing their dreams.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to get fired up at a live house or rekindle your passion for music.
Under the fluttering national flagIzumiya Shigeru
A signature work by Shigeru Izumiya, infused with sharp social criticism.
Included on the 1972 album “Jidaiokure no Seishun” (“Out-of-Date Youth”), this song was born against the backdrop of student movements and Japan’s high-growth era.
Its musical style fuses folk and rock, marked by a rough yet emotionally rich vocal delivery.
The lyrics symbolically question the meanings carried by the national flag and anthem, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
This piece strongly reflects Izumiya’s defiant spirit and his challenges to society.
It is a valuable musical legacy that deserves to be passed down across generations.
A Letter from a Cold CountryIzumiya Shigeru
This is a song distinguished by a tender melody that stirs the heart and poignant, heartrending lyrics.
Centered on the motif of a letter sent from far away, it powerfully conveys the importance of human bonds and love.
You can feel how Shigeru Izumiya’s distinctive singing voice deepens the song’s world.
Released in 1972 on the album “Bokura no Yoake,” this track drew significant attention as Izumiya’s debut work.
It’s a song you’ll especially want to listen to as winter’s cold grows harsher.
Why not enjoy it at a leisurely pace with a warm drink in hand?