[Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
When you think of songs about Osaka, what tunes come to mind? While traditional local songs have become fewer, there are still many moving classics like Dreams Come True’s “Osaka LOVER” and Masaki Ueda’s “Kanashii Iro Yane.” From songs filled with the determination not to lose to Tokyo, to nostalgic hometown ballads, tracks that name-check local places, and even playful, humorous numbers—there’s a wide variety.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected “songs of Osaka” across a broad range of genres, from enka and kayōkyoku of the ’70s–’80s to recent J-pop.
We present masterpieces brimming with Osaka’s unique warmth and humanity, as well as passionate tales of love.
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[Osaka Songs] A selection of passionate, big-hearted Osaka tunes (81–90)
Midosuji at twilightSakamoto Sumiko
This is a song released by Sumiko Sakamoto in 1967 that depicts the scenery of Midosuji in Osaka.
Sumiko Sakamoto is a singer from Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, and this has become one of her signature songs about her hometown of Osaka.
In 1977, she also released a disco-arranged version of the song.
The Two MidousujiUchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five
Released in 1975 by Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five, this song overlays a woman’s bittersweet feelings of love with the image of rain pouring down on Midosuji, heightening the sense of sorrow and longing.
It is a little-known gem regarded as an Osaka-themed song by Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five.
A man hardened in OsakaTHE BOOM
Released in 1999 as THE BOOM’s 21st single, this song was issued simultaneously with the album “No Control,” which also includes it.
Centered on Osaka, its lyrics feature local specialties and vocalist Kazufumi Miyazawa’s personal experiences.
It’s a crowd-pleaser at live shows and has become a fan favorite.
In conclusion
Have you found a favorite Osaka-themed song? From bittersweet, deeply moving tunes to energetic tracks filled with Osaka-style humor, there are so many classics. Osaka songs, with their sense of familiarity, are perfect for karaoke! Whether you’re from Osaka or not, why not sing while thinking fondly of your hometown?