A classic of Japanese blues. Japanese blues that lets you get drunk on the sound and vocals.
What songs come to mind when you think of the blues?
Originally, it was music born from African peoples who had immigrated to America, beginning with songs that expressed the sorrow and laments of the poor.
Compared to jazz, which is centered on instruments, I think the blues has a special appeal in that you can enjoy it mainly with guitar and vocals.
Japanese blues is very rich in flavor and is perfect for listening to at a relaxed pace!
That groove that makes you drunk on the sound and the singers’ emotive expressiveness—blues moves the heart in every era.
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A classic of Japanese blues. Japanese blues to get drunk on the sound and vocals (51–60)
Showa BluesAmachi Shigeru
This is a single released in 1973 by Shigeru Amachi, who was also active as an actor.
It was used as the ending theme for the detective drama “License to Kill,” in which Amachi starred.
The lyrics were written by Michio Yamagami, known for writing many commercial jingles.
Wakkanai BluesHara Mitsuru to Shaneru Faibu
It was the debut single by Mitsuru Hara and Chanel Five, released in July 1971.
The lyrics and music were by Takuya Fujimoto, who had previously worked as a rockabilly singer.
Note that Ichiro Toba has also released a single with the same title, but it is a different song.
Blues of 484Kitataki Jun
This is a single released by Jun Kodachi in 1968.
The title “484” refers to the address of Sapporo Prison, and under broadcasting standards it was prohibited from being aired.
In 1979, Mitsuru Hirata, who wrote and composed the song, released a self-cover.
There is also a cover version by Hiroki Matsukata.
bullfighterChar
Among blues songs with a slightly pop feel, there’s “Matador.” It’s a track released by the singer-songwriter Char.
In the first half, set to a mid-tempo sound, the lyrics liken a heartbroken man to a matador.
That section carries a mood close to Japanese kayōkyoku, but in the latter half the song modulates and shifts into a tougher, weightier blues.
The arrangement matches this change, bringing the man’s sorrow into sharper focus.
It’s great both for quiet, reflective moments and for when you want to get fired up.
West Sea BluesUchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five
It’s a single released by Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five in February 1977.
As you can tell from the lyrics, the song is set in Nagasaki, and it seems to express feelings for a former lover.
It peaked at No.
20 on the Oricon chart.