Miyuki Nakajima’s Masterpieces: A Showcase of the Timeless Gems That Defined an Era

O seaNakajima Miyuki

Sea - Miyuki Nakajima [cover]

This is a song by Miyuki Nakajima that evokes the image of sending one’s thoughts out toward the vast sea.

It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Umi yo Omae ga — The Youth of the Sailing Ship Nippon Maru,” directed by Yukio Ninagawa.

In harmony with the film’s themes, the lyrics feel as though sailors are speaking to the sea, reflecting on the sea that has always been close by and the memories tied to it.

It’s a gentle, soothing piece that lets you feel the great sea that embraces every emotion.

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slopeNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima “Keisha (Incline)” / by soko

This song begins with a heavy, solemn intro.

The protagonist is an old woman.

In the bright, upbeat chorus it says, “Growing old is a wonderful thing, being forgetful is a wonderful thing,” but in the end, when it says, “If the number of sad memories exceeds the level of saturation, isn’t there nothing left to do but forget?” it becomes painfully clear just how much sorrow those words carry.

I feel that around this time Miyuki-san began moving away from breakup songs and started writing songs that focus on “humanity.”

An inexperienced person todayNakajima Miyuki

Song Journey — Miyuki Nakajima Concert Tour 2007 Digest Trailer (Official)

A song used as the theme for the drama “Juken no Kamisama” (The God of Exams).

It was created when TOKIO, a Johnny’s idol group, asked Miyuki Nakajima to write a song.

The melody has a kayō-rock style similar to “Sora Fune,” also composed by Nakajima.

The lyrics portray a person who, though clumsy, lives earnestly within society.

The words evoke images reminiscent of old-time samurai or the rugged ‘bankara’ spirit.

threadNakajima Miyuki

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

I think it’s one of Miyuki Nakajima’s more modern-style songs.

The melody is gentle and beautiful, and I like it.

But there’s one part that bothers me: “You are the vertical threads, I am the horizontal threads.” In weaving, there are many vertical threads and a single horizontal thread, so it makes me wonder—are there many “you”s?

I bear a grudge.Nakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima – Urami-masu (I Bear a Grudge) Cover by XXkurage

Isn’t this practically the quintessential breakup song? I remember being shocked the first time I heard it.

I was still pretty young, so it felt kind of dark and ominous.

It even made me think, “Women are scary…” (even though I’m a woman myself, lol)

touch-me-not (balsam flower)Nakajima Miyuki

Balsam (Touch-Me-Not) - Miyuki Nakajima [cover]

It’s a song befitting the queen of heartbreak.

As a child, I was drawn to the contrast between the brightly sung chorus and the heaviness of the lyrics.

The way she swallows the words “Even if you dump me, I’ll wait for you” and holds herself back brings tears to your eyes.

From the WildernessNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima “From the Wilderness” Music Video (Short Ver.) [Official]

I really think Miyuki’s powerful singing and her gentle yet strong lyrics make this a true cheer song.

It reminded me of his words: “No matter how much we fight, I want you to stay by my side.” As just one fan of Miyuki Nakajima, I want to say thank you for such a wonderful song.