Special Feature: Name Songs — Masterpieces with Names Sung by Artists

YosakuKitajima Saburō

It was released in 1978 as Saburo Kitajima’s 69th single.

As one of his signature songs, it is highly popular, and he performed it on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen for two consecutive years, in 1978 and the following year, 1979.

It was also used as an insert song and the ending theme in the 2014 Japanese film Thermae Romae II.

YOKOYazawa Eikichi

Eikichi Yazawa - “Truth” Music Video

A song included on Eikichi Yazawa’s 14th studio album, Tokyo Night, released in 1986.

It was later issued as a single as the B-side to his 20th single, “FLASH IN JAPAN,” with lyrics written by Tetsuya Chiaki.

The song’s theme assumes a former lover.

Coincidentally, it shares the same name as Eikichi Yazawa’s daughter.

HattoriUNICORN

UNICORN – Hattori (Louder Version)

A track included on UNICORN’s album Hattori, released in June 1989.

It’s a soul-tinged number marked by a hard-hitting guitar riff that portrays the stylish, laid-back confidence of a man in his thirties.

The story, which offers young listeners tips on the art of romantic give-and-take, unfolds in a distinctive narrative style, with playful, humorous lyrics that are part of its appeal.

The song stood out in the music scene at the time and became an important work that helped accelerate the band’s momentum after their debut.

The album Hattori was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan and reached No.

3 on the Oricon album chart.

Robinsonsupittsu

Spitz / Robinson

Known as a classic song about spring, this is one of Spitz’s signature tracks.

The bittersweetness and anxiety that arrive with the start of a new season are universal emotions everyone has felt at least once.

Lyrics depicting the protagonist’s longing love and a special world for just the two of them seep into the heart, carried by a clear, translucent melody.

Released in April 1995, it sold over 1.62 million copies.

It was also included on the album “Honey” (Hachimitsu) and won the Excellence Award at the 37th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a recommended song when you want to look back on memories of your youth or reflect on relationships with those dear to you.

Takashi-kunMoriyama Naotaro

Takashi-kun Naotaro Moriyama

It’s a song included on Naotaro Moriyama’s concept album “Rare Tracks vol.1,” released in 2010.

The album features newly recorded versions of songs that had previously been shelved, and this particular track is about Moriyama’s on-site manager, Takashi Sekiguchi.

Dear John Lennon,Magokoro Burazāzu

Magokoro Brothers - Dear John Lennon

A unique song written in the form of a letter to a legendary musician.

Released by Magokoro Brothers in June 1996, the track portrays a bygone superstar who championed love and peace, blending occasional irony with deep respect.

It was also included on the album “GREAT ADVENTURE” and reached No.

57 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Though some provocative expressions sparked controversy at the time, the song resonates with many listeners as a work imbued with a sincere devotion to music.

It’s a classic recommended for those who want to explore the history of rock music or seek timeless, universal messages.

Ms. YoshikoKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Yoshiko-san (Short ver.)

It was released in 2016 as Keisuke Kuwata’s 16th single.

The song was used in a WOWOW “25th Anniversary of Broadcasting” commercial featuring Kuwata himself.

The title “Yoshiko” is both a quote from the signature routine of the late Sanpei Hayashiya I and, as Kuwata has said, the name of a staff member who has helped him in his work.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.