![GODIEGO Popular Song Rankings [2026]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/lH5QXBB1ESI/maxresdefault.webp)
GODIEGO Popular Song Rankings [2026]
GODIEGO has been a leading force in Japanese progressive rock.They’re also known for “Gandhara” and “Monkey Magic,” the theme songs of the TV drama Journey to the West.In 2006, they announced their permanent reunion, and we’ve compiled a ranking of their popular songs to introduce.
GODIEGO Popular Song Rankings [2026] (1–10)
Galaxy Express 999Godaigo1rank/position
A rock tune brimming with sci‑fi flair, created as the theme song for the film Galaxy Express 999.
Reportedly written by Yukihide Takekawa in just one night after receiving the English lyrics, the song became a major hit upon its July 1979 release, spending seven consecutive weeks at No.
1 on TBS’s music program The Best Ten.
While rooted in rock, its innovative sound breathed new life into anime songs and significantly impacted the music scene of the time.
The up-tempo rhythm—evoking a steam locomotive powerfully charging ahead—and its bold message about having the courage to move toward the future deliver maximum impact even in wind ensemble performances.
It’s a song that will give you a strong push as you strive toward your dreams.
Monkey MagicGodiego2rank/position
A song inspired by the story of Journey to the West, distinguished by lyrics entirely in English.
The lyrics, which depict the monkey’s birth and his departure for the West, evoke a mythic worldview and a spirit of adventure.
Released in December 1978, it became a massive hit as the theme song for the drama of the same name.
It was also included on the album “Journey to the West (MAGIC MONKEY)” and achieved million-seller status.
This work has long been cherished as one of GODIEGO’s signature songs.
It’s recommended not only for those who want to enjoy a nostalgic classic, but also for anyone seeking a song with an epic, narrative quality.
GandharaGodaigo3rank/position
A classic by Godiego that sings of a distant utopia.
Its melody exudes an exotic atmosphere, and the distinctive lyrics interweaving Japanese and English leave a strong impression.
Released in October 1978, the song was used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV drama “Saiyuki” and became a huge hit, selling over 1.6 million copies.
The longing for a utopia overflowing with love and dreams surely resides in everyone.
When you’re tired of everyday life or seeking something new, why not give this piece a listen? It will surely soothe your heart and give you courage.
Galaxy Express 999 ~Shin Mix~Godaigo4rank/position
“Galaxy Express 999 ~Shin Mix~” was used in a commercial for McDonald’s limited-time Muscat-flavored McShake, one of the brand’s popular items.
Takuya Kimura appears in the ad, so many of you may find it familiar.
“Galaxy Express 999” is a signature song released by Godiego in 1979 and has long been beloved by many listeners.
The version used in the commercial, “Galaxy Express 999 ~Shin Mix~,” is a newly released 2021 version in which the original recordings were remixed and reborn as high-resolution audio.
My Salad GirlGodiego5rank/position
Godiego’s “My Salad Girl,” written entirely in English, was used as a commercial song for the cosmetics company Kanebo.
As Godiego’s debut single, the track became an instant hit and created a buzz.
The term “Salad Girl” in the title is said to refer to a woman who is fresh, clean, and stylish.
The song portrays such a wonderful woman through a loving gaze, capturing her every move.
You can feel the narrator’s unwavering love for everything about her—her hair, eyes, fragrance, and gestures.
The love melody, carried by a refreshing tune, is as fresh as a salad itself!
TRY TO WAKE UP TO A MORNINGGodaigo6rank/position
This is the theme song for the second 24-Hour TV broadcast in 1979.
It was included as the B-side to Godiego’s single “Haruka na Tabi e” (“To a Distant Journey”).
With lyrics entirely in English, it’s a beautiful ballad featuring Yukihide Takakawa’s gentle vocals and Mickey Yoshino’s piano tones.
It’s a masterpiece that I hope even those who only associate Godiego with “Gandhara” will listen to.
Beautiful NameGodaigo7rank/position
This is Godiego’s 9th single, released in April 1979.
The song’s gentle mood, which conveys their wish for children around the world to be happy, is part of its appeal.
It was the supporting song for the International Year of the Child in 1979 and was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it a piece often heard close to children.
A major point is that the song exists not only with Japanese lyrics but also in various other languages, strongly expressing a wish for world peace.
Loved for many years, it was even used at the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021.
