A classic by Tamio Okuda. A roundup of masterpieces that captivate with their natural, laid-back worldview!
When you listen to Tamio Okuda’s music, your shoulders relax and you feel a sudden sense of freedom—many of you may have experienced that, haven’t you?His songs, delivered through his solo work as well as a variety of collaborations, all carry a unique atmosphere and a deep, nuanced flavor.In this article, we’ll introduce Tamio Okuda’s classic and popular tracks.Whether you’re a long-time fan who’s listened closely or someone who wants to start exploring now, you’re sure to find a new favorite.Be sure to read to the end!
Okuda Tamio’s classic songs. A roundup introduction to masterpieces with a natural, laid-back worldview (1–10).
I have use for that warmth.Okuda Tamio
This is a cover that radiates a fiery rock spirit.
Okuda Tamio channels the straightforward passion of Sambomaster’s original with a seasoned ease and a superb rock sound.
You can feel his veteran presence and the joy of performing, and just listening makes your heart burn.
It’s included on the tribute album “Sambomaster Kyukyoku Tribute Love From Nakama,” released in March 2020.
Created to celebrate Sambomaster’s 20th anniversary, it also drew attention for Okuda Tamio taking on one of their signature songs.
This work has a timeless rock universality that resonates across generations.
Give it a listen when you need a boost or simply want to revel in pure rock ’n’ roll.
MTRYOkuda Tamio
It’s a high-speed rock number that hits you like a solid wall of sound from the band.
In the lyrics, each instrument—like the drums and bass—is personified, portraying a band that turns even the slightest misalignment into groove and charges forward.
It’s a track that feels like a living embodiment of Tamio Okuda’s band setup “MTR&Y,” blending playfulness with cool swagger.
It’s the opening track on the album Cactus Museum, released in September 2017.
It also became the title of their 2018 Nippon Budokan live show.
Give it a listen when you’re heading out on a drive with friends or when you want to crank up your energy for a crucial moment.
speedOkuda Tamio
A number by Tamio Okuda that sings of passing time and the road traveled, carried by a driving, exhilarating guitar sound.
The lyrics, which capture scenery flashing by in an instant, resonate with the weight and lightness that only a veteran can convey.
Originally written for KinKi Kids in 2013, this self-cover was released digitally ahead of time in December 2025 and included on the EP “Amarimono,” which came out in January 2026.
Rebuilt in his own voice more than a decade later, this work goes beyond a simple cover to mark his present location.
It’s irresistible not only for longtime fans, but also for those who love Okuda’s rock side.
biting my lipOkuda Tamio
A rock number steeped in masculine melancholy, with the comfortable feel of the Hiroshima dialect.
It’s a cover of a classic by Takuro Yoshida, whom Tamio Okuda deeply admires, and while it pays respect to the original, the bold band sound turns it into pure, full-throttle Okuda—absolutely fantastic! It was included as the B-side to the single “Skywalker,” released in June 2004, and later featured on the special compilation “Kinen Rider No.
2,” making it a fan favorite.
Seeing him strum his guitar and sing it live has a gut-level persuasiveness that needs no explanation.
The unadorned vocals and muscular performance are perfect for those moments when you’re feeling frustrated or need to fire yourself up at night.
Become a flowerOkuda Tamio
This is Tamio Okuda’s 13th single, released in March 2002.
Since it was featured in a J-PHONE “Sha-Mail” commercial, many of you might remember it.
The lyrics, said to be written with a fighter in mind, overflow with stoic determination and a will to move forward, giving the song a reassuring power that gives listeners a strong push.
The sound blends a driving rock feel with an approachable melody—classic Okuda at full throttle.
If you listen when you’re feeling down or need to get fired up, you’ll naturally find yourself looking up and saying, “All right, let’s do this!” It’s a masterpiece I’d love everyone who’s trying to carve out their own path to hear.
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
A signature classic that could be called Tamio Okuda’s calling card.
It was released in 1996 as his sixth single.
The title “I.J.U.” is industry slang for “30.” It’s said to combine the fact that he was 30 years old when he made it with a nod to the film Easy Rider.
wild roseOkuda Tamio
Although it was never released as a single, this song enjoys enduring popularity among fans.
Is it describing a day of fishing, or is it a love song…? With a laid-back vibe that could be read either way, and a rich use of minor chords, it’s a gem that showcases Tamio Okuda’s signature style.
The wind is from the west.Okuda Tamio
This song was specially written as a commercial theme for Mazda, a company based in Hiroshima Prefecture, where Tamio Okuda is from, and it was released in 2013.
The sense of speed unique to a car manufacturer’s CM song makes it perfect for a drive.
In this work, Okuda also shows his versatility by performing all the instruments himself.
The music video, with a drama-like poignancy, is also a must-see.
For loveOkuda Tamio
This was the first solo single released after Unicorn disbanded, and it became Tamio Okuda’s first million-selling hit.
With its laid-back lyrics and surprisingly hard-edged rock sound, you can feel a different side of Okuda compared to his Unicorn days.
You could say this song rebuilt the “Okuda world” that captivates listeners.
To the seaOkuda Tamio
Originally written by Tamio Okuda for PUFFY, the song was used in a Suntory commercial.
Its breezy, summery pop sound is delightful and makes you want to head straight to the beach.
Incidentally, Takuya Kimura has publicly stated that he likes this song, and there’s even an anecdote that when PUFFY first released it, he asked Okuda, “Why don’t you sing it yourself?”