[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 Raced Through the Dawn Era (11–20)
Make Upfurawā toraberin band
A track included on the 1973 album MAKE UP.
It showcases the Flower Travellin’ Band’s musical evolution, featuring a distinctive sound that fuses progressive rock and hard rock elements.
The catchy guitar melodies and powerful organ playing are striking, hinting at a new direction for the band.
Joe Yamanaka’s powerful vocals and Hideki Ishima’s guitar work are a perfect match, drawing listeners in.
An irresistible song for fans of 1970s heavy rock—sure to get you pumped when you listen to it while driving.
lemon teaSon House
Sun House is a rock band that was hugely active in the 1970s.
Their name comes from Son House, a legendary blues artist, and as that suggests, their music is rooted in blues rock—blues distilled into rock.
Among their works, the standout track I especially recommend is Lemon Tea.
It starts off with a melody reminiscent of rockabilly, then shifts partway through into a gritty blues rock groove.
The bold key changes are particularly appealing, so be sure to check it out.
HEART’S ON FIREBOWWOW
In the 1970s, several rock bands emerged in Japan that were influenced by music from overseas.
However, most of them were merely influenced by American and British bands and, in terms of ability, fell far short of their international counterparts.
Amid this, the band that earned acclaim with overwhelming skill was BOWWOW, who perform “HEART’S ON FIRE.” Their prime was in the 1980s, and here you can enjoy the fresh, formative sound of BOWWOW before their musical style fully coalesced.
So alluring it makes you faintChar
Char is an artist who commands respect from many guitarists thanks to his overwhelming guitar technique.
He’s so famous that even younger people likely know him.
When it comes to Char’s classic songs, many probably think of “Kizetsu Suru Hodo Nayamashii.” The track blends Japanese kayōkyoku and rock in a well-balanced way, resulting in an overall catchy piece.
And of course, the guitar playing is one of the highlights.
Ah!murahachibu
Murahachibu was a band with a very short period of activity from 1969 to 1973, yet they left behind an impressive set of classics.
Their distinctive rock ’n’ roll sound resembles what we’d now associate with Shinsei Kamattechan.
In particular, the vocals are strikingly similar to Noko from Shinsei Kamattechan.
Bands from that era were often influenced by a specific genre, but Murahachibu stood out with a unique musicality that incorporated a variety of styles.
Their release “Ah!”—as the title suggests—showcases Murahachibu’s overwhelming individuality.