[1970s] Classic and hit songs of Japanese rock that blazed through the dawn era
When it comes to the era that laid the foundation for Japanese rock music, isn’t it the 1970s? The musicians and bands that emerged during this time had a tremendous impact on later Japanese rock.
Here, we introduce supreme masterpieces that colored the 1970s.
From famous bands everyone knows to musicians known only to the initiated, we’ve picked a wide range—so please find the tracks that suit you.
Now, please sit back and enjoy!
- [1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
- Dawn of Japanese Rock: A Collection of Debut Songs by 1970s Japanese Rock Bands
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Legendary Japanese rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 1960s
- Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
- The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
- Debut songs by Japanese male artists from the 1970s
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- [Classic Hits of the 70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials
- A roundup of debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 1970s
- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
[1970s] Classic and hit songs of Japanese rock that blazed through the dawn era (1–10)
HERO ~When You Become a Hero, That Time Is Now~Kai Band
There are many iconic rock songs that became hits in the 1970s, and among them, “HERO — The Time to Become a Hero Is Now” is surely one of the long-loved classics.
This song is one of Kai Band’s signature works, released in 1978.
While its sound leans strongly toward pop, it carries a distinct rock-like wistfulness and continues to be featured across various media today.
If you’re into catchy rock, this is a must-listen.
YOU MAY DREAMSHEENA&THE ROKKETS
If there’s one signature song by Sheena & The Rokkets, it’s this one.
Released in December 1979 as their second single, it was also used in a Japan Airlines commercial and etched itself into the memories of many.
Produced by Haruomi Hosono, its distinctive sound carries shades of Yellow Magic Orchestra’s essence.
Sheena’s unique vocals pair perfectly with Makoto Ayukawa’s guitar.
The lyrics, depicting the feelings of a girl in love with love, weave dreamlike scenes that resonate deeply.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to sink into a romantic mood.
Step!RC sakuseshon
RC Succession is a legendary rock band that has led Japan’s rock scene not only in the 1970s but ever since.
It’s the band of the universally known Kiyoshiro Imawano.
RC Succession excels in a wide-ranging musical palette rooted in punk rock, while incorporating glam rock, folk rock, and even Black music.
In the 1970s their sound leaned strongly toward punk, and that punk appeal is abundantly infused in “Step!” as well.
It’s an absolutely uplifting and wonderful track that fills you with energy.
Purple HighwayCOOLS
COOLS is a cult band that has influenced countless rock groups.
In Japan and abroad, most bands change their style a few times over a long career, but COOLS has stayed true to its original vision to this day—keeping not only their musical approach but also their fashion unchanged.
One of their classic tracks is Purple Highway.
Hiroshi Tachi’s sweet vocals mesh perfectly with the rock sound that leans toward rockabilly.
The era in the 1980s when Ken Yokoyama of Crazy Ken Band handled vocals is also highly recommended, so be sure to check it out.
Please, Time MachineSadisutikku Mika Bando
When it comes to signature songs by the Sadistic Mika Band—who were also well-known in the UK—Time Machine ni Onegai is the one that comes to mind.
It was the band formed by Kazuhiko Kato of The Folk Crusaders and his then-wife, Mika Kato.
Time Machine ni Onegai was their third single, released in 1974, and a single cut from the album Kurofune (Black Ship).
It’s a fast-paced, funky rock tune whose feel-good sound alone can lift your spirits.
