Chiharu Matsuyama’s masterpieces and popular songs

PrayerMatsuyama Chiharu

Prayer (Chiharu Matsuyama) Chiharu Takamatsu

Chiharu Matsuyama is a singer-songwriter born in 1955 from Ashoro, Ashoro District, Hokkaido, who mainly performs folk songs.

“Inori” is his 59th single, released in November 2006.

He has produced many classic songs, including Hokkaido’s representative anthem “In the Great Sky and on the Great Earth” and “I Won’t Forget You,” the theme song for the Fuji TV drama The Ugly Duckling.

youthMatsuyama Chiharu

youth

This song looks back on cherished moments from youth—walking alongside a beloved person—and the deep love that existed there.

Its light rhythm and distinctive guitar sound are striking, vividly conveying fresh, youthful scenery.

While it has a breezy feel, the rhythm is calm, so it’s important to relax and sing while truly listening to the sound.

The unique, slightly off-beat phrasing is also a key element that enhances the song’s atmosphere, so focusing on that aspect is highly recommended.

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kappamaki

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SetbackMatsuyama Chiharu

Chiharu Matsuyama - Setback (cover)

With a straightforward title like “Setback,” and because it’s by Chiharu Matsuyama, who’s known for so many great songs, you can’t help but wonder what kind of song it is.

When you’re feeling down, you suddenly think of your hometown.

Sometimes you feel like going back to that town filled with memories of happier times.

Your hometown is always there, waiting for you.

To rest your tired heart and body, why not take a little trip back home?

A midsummer dayMatsuyama Chiharu

A Midsummer Day - Chiharu Matsuyama

With its up-tempo groove and a violin solo that evokes an exotic mood, “A Midsummer Day” is a song that lifts your spirits.

You’ll undoubtedly discover another side of Chiharu Matsuyama’s charm.

This track is included on the album “Zutto Issho,” released in May 2010.

First loveMatsuyama Chiharu

First Love / Chiharu Matsuyama

Chiharu Matsuyama is exceptionally skilled at expressing a woman’s feelings through elegant poetry.

“First Love” is a superb, underappreciated gem that vividly captures and conveys the subtle shades of joy, anger, sorrow, and delight in a young woman’s heart during her fluttering youth.

It is included on his first album, “Songs Made for You.”

pinwheelMatsuyama Chiharu

pinwheel

Released in 1979, this song is one of the pieces where Chiharu Matsuyama, who occasionally writes from a woman’s perspective, makes a woman the protagonist.

It transitions from an emotional introduction into a waltz-like 3/4 time that feels like a windmill turning.

Then comes a dramatic 3/4 chorus that really leaves an impression.

Among Chiharu’s songs, the arrangement has a strong Showa-kayō (classic Showa-era pop) vibe.

For karaoke, the key is to consciously contrast the languid feel leading up to the chorus with the intensity of the chorus itself.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Shall we go home?Matsuyama Chiharu

Shall we go home? / Chiharu Matsuyama cover

The plaintive, melancholic song “Kaerou ka” (“Shall We Go Home?”) is a superb work worthy of being a top contender for Chiharu Matsuyama’s best hidden gem.

The allure of the Chiharu world sparkles throughout the track.

It was released in January 1980 as the B-side to his eighth single, “Koi” (Love).