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)
Brown SalesmanIzumiya Shigeru
A song that fully showcases Shigeru Izumiya’s talent as he moves between the realms of folk and rock.
Featured on his 1972 album “Hitoribocchi no Futari,” this piece sharply portrays the anxieties and conflicts of young people at the time.
Through the life of its protagonist with sun-browned skin, it conveys a critical gaze toward society and a strong will to seek personal freedom.
Its distinctive rhythm and resonant lyrics seize the listener’s heart and won’t let go.
It’s a perfect song for those searching for their own path or questioning the contradictions of society.
You’re sure to find yourself empathizing with Izumiya’s soul-stirring vocals.
Silver Shoes at Lightning SpeedIzumiya Shigeru
The guitar pours out raw emotion, and the rhythm evokes a punk band—both leave a strong impression.
It’s one of Shigeru Izumiya’s signature songs, a major influence on Japan’s folk-rock scene in the 1970s.
The melody slips gently into the listener’s heart and lingers, its resonance remaining in your ears even after the song ends.
The phrase “silver shoes” is repeated as a symbol of freedom and liberation, praising the courage and allure of someone released from their bonds.
When you want to feel the importance of living true to yourself, give it a listen.
Bob LennonIzumiya Shigeru
This song, captivating for its powerful vocals and distinctive worldview, is included on the 1974 album “Aozora, Hitori Kiri.” Shigeru Izumiya, inspired by John Lennon and Bob Dylan, created the piece with a wish for peace.
In the chorus, the lyrics and melody match exquisitely, making it especially memorable.
Izumiya’s emotionally rich singing brings out the song’s depth.
Its strong melody and unique worldview seize listeners’ hearts and are truly compelling.
Please enjoy this wonderful track.
Shigeru Izumiya’s classic and popular songs (11–20)
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.
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.