Get intoxicated by the captivating low notes! What is the ranking of Frank Nagai’s popular songs?
Frank Nagai was a singer who pioneered a genre of mood kayō (mood pop) featuring a jazzy atmosphere, and whose distinctive voice earned him the nickname “the Enchanting Low Tone.”
He became a top star after the 1957 hit of Yūrakuchō de Aimashō, which was produced as a campaign song, and set a record by appearing in the Kōhaku Uta Gassen for 26 consecutive years.
This time, we present a ranking of Frank Nagai’s popular songs—please enjoy the musicality steeped in the nostalgic charm of classic jazz.
Get intoxicated by the captivating low notes! What is the ranking of Frank Nagai’s popular songs?
to youFuranku Nagai1rank/position
This gem of a ballad, which highlights Frank Nagai’s captivating low bass voice, beautifully sings of deep gratitude and the bond with a loved one.
Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics warmly embrace the listener.
First released in 1972 and later re-recorded for a 1977 release, it has remained beloved by many over the years.
Performed three times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it is widely known as one of Frank Nagai’s signature songs.
With a relaxed tempo that makes it easy to sing while feeling the connection with someone special, it’s perfect for karaoke—sing it with care, weaving the lyrics thoughtfully from the heart.
Tokyo NightclubFuranku Nagai, Matsuo Kazuko2rank/position
Released in 1959, “Tokyo Night Club” by Frank Nagai and Kazuko Matsuo is a classic that pioneered duet songs in Japan.
Its appeal lies in the call-and-response style of a man and woman singing in turn, passionately depicting their feelings against the backdrop of nighttime Tokyo, creating a piece that resonates with many listeners.
It was also Kazuko Matsuo’s debut song and became a major hit, greatly influencing later duet songs.
With its mood-rich melody and sophisticated lyrics, it evokes adult romance and the atmosphere of the city at night, making it a recommended track for older listeners who feel nostalgic for the nightlife of that era.
Yearning for youFuranku Nagai3rank/position
This work, with its moody sound and gentle vocals, exudes a mature atmosphere.
Frank Nagai’s rich, resonant voice beautifully captures the ache of unrequited love.
Released in 1961, it won the Japan Record Award and catapulted him to fame.
The song portrays remembering a lost love in the stillness of the night, likely bringing many back to romances of their youth.
When singing it at karaoke, keep Frank Nagai’s captivating low register in mind and take it at your own relaxed pace.
It’s sure to spark wonderful memories and conversations.
Let’s meet in Yurakucho.Furanku Nagai4rank/position
This is a piece with an urban, sophisticated vibe that is truly captivating.
Set against the backdrop of department stores and tea rooms, it conjures up the lively scenes of the Showa era.
Showcasing the full charm of Frank Nagai, known for his baritone voice, it was released by Nippon Victor in 1957.
In 1958, it was also used in a film of the same name, which drew significant attention.
During the rainy season, when people spend more time indoors, this work—one that lets you share memories of the Showa period—is sure to warmly embrace the hearts of older adults.
Its gentle atmosphere encourages conversation and makes for an enjoyable time—truly a classic choice for music recreation.
Tokyo CachitoFuranku Nagai5rank/position
It’s a classic of mood kayō that has continued to be loved as a Showa-era masterpiece.
Set against the backdrop of nights in Akasaka, the song portrays the bittersweetness of adult love with an urban sensibility.
Frank Nagai’s alluring low voice richly conveys the feelings of a man troubled by love.
Released in October 1960, the single featured “Arcade Blues” on the B-side.
As a leading presence in the mood kayō boom of the time, it was cherished by many.
It’s a song I’d recommend as a fun karaoke pick to sing with friends, along with fond memories.
Chako Vanished into the Night FogFuranku Nagai6rank/position
Frank Nagai’s “Chako Lost in the Night Fog” is a classic breakup song released in 1959.
The lyrics tell of the narrator’s heart-wrenching sorrow after Chako, an innocent young woman working at a bar, suddenly disappears.
You can feel the narrator’s strong longing for her return, even as he understands Chako’s feelings.
Frank Nagai’s captivating low voice adds depth to the song’s world.
Listening to it with older adults might spark lively conversations about memories from their youth.
Osaka RomanFuranku Nagai7rank/position
Released in 1966 by Frank Nagai, the song that became a big hit, “Omae ni,” was actually the B-side of this track.
The lyrics are filled with scenes of Osaka, and the Osaka dialect makes it feel even more familiar.
As one of Frank Nagai’s signature songs, it continues to be sung today, especially in Osaka.