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Shigeru Izumiya Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

He debuted in 1971 with “Shigeru Izumiya Tōjō” on Elec Records.

He went on to co-found For Life Records with Takuro Yoshida, Yosui Inoue, and Hitoshi Komuro.

He later flourished as an actor as well, becoming a multi-talented entertainer beloved by households across Japan.

These days, he’s so well-known in Japan that almost everyone recognizes him, and you often see him on variety and news programs, right?

This time, we’re putting the spotlight on him!

We’ll introduce a ranking of his most popular works from among all the releases so far.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering him, please enjoy.

Shigeru Izumiya Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (21–30)

War DittyIzumiya Shigeru29rank/position

Shigeru Izumiya - Little War Ditty
War DittyIzumiya Shigeru

The passionately charged “War Ditty,” imbued with irony toward war, was created by Shigeru Izumiya, a singer-songwriter who also excels as an actor and commentator.

The powerful guitar playing—like an expression of fervor from the heart—leaves a strong impression.

Its strongly messaged lyrics depicting every facet of war, together with his soulful vocals, resonate deeply.

Precisely because the song conveys unvarnished, straightforward feelings, it communicates the sorrow and pain inherent in conflict.

It is an anti-war song we hope to pass down for a bright future free of war.

spring’s dry windIzumiya Shigeru30rank/position

Shigeru Izumiya / Spring Karakkaze from “Shin Self Covers: Monster” [Music Video]
spring's dry windIzumiya Shigeru

A work that sharply portrays social pressure and loneliness was included on the 1973 album “Light and Shadow” and later released as a single.

Shigeru Izumiya wrote and composed the song, with production by Kazuhiko Kato.

Interweaving the north wind of spring with the hardships of daily life, it delicately expresses the conflict between the self and society.

The power and message of folk music resonated with many artists, leading to covers by numerous musicians, including Anarchy, Keisuke Kuwata, and Masaharu Fukuyama.

I hope you will cherish moments when we share the feelings in our hearts through music.

This work contains many deeply moving words, and those who have rich life experience—especially older listeners—will surely grasp its essence.

Shigeru Izumiya Popular Song Rankings [2026] (31–40)

Blame it all on the timesIzumiya Shigeru31rank/position

Shigeru Izumiya — “Blame It All on the Times” (Single Ver.)
Blame it all on the timesIzumiya Shigeru

A signature song by Shigeru Izumiya that had a profound impact on Japan’s folk-rock scene.

It is included on his 1972 album “Our Failure.” This work sharply depicts the social issues and struggles faced by young people at the time.

Its lyrics, imbued with criticism of the era and a rebellious spirit, continue to resonate with many listeners today.

Izumiya’s powerful yet delicate vocals stir the emotions of those who hear them.

A song that prompts reflection on one’s own way of life and relationship with society.

Through music, it can bring fresh insights to everyday life.

Imjin RiverIzumiya Shigeru32rank/position

Imjin River, So Sad I Can't Bear It, Osamu Kitayama, Kohnosuke Sakazaki, Kousetsu Minami
Imjin RiverIzumiya Shigeru

This is a moving song that laments a family torn apart by war.

Shigeru Izumiya’s rough-hewn vocals further enhance the song’s melancholy.

Included on the 1972 album “A Single Photograph,” the piece initially drew little attention in Japan, but by the 1980s it had come to be widely sung as an emblematic song of South Korea’s democratization movement.

Set against the flow of the Imjin River, it portrays the sorrow of divided families and lovers, conveying the tragedy of war and the suffering of humanity.

It is a song imbued with a universal message that resonates with those who long for peace.

Stay, time—thou art beautiful!Izumiya Shigeru33rank/position

31. Stop, Time—You Are Beautiful: Shigeru Izumiya Complete Song Conquest Vol. 8 2013-06-29
Stay, time—thou art beautiful!Izumiya Shigeru

This ballad, which sings of a longing that resists the passage of time, is one of Shigeru Izumiya’s signature works.

It captures the brilliance and transience of youth and a poignant love for someone dear, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released as a single in 1972, it is also included on the album “Subete Jidai no Sei ni Shite” (“Blame It All on the Times”).

Izumiya’s distinctive voice and the emotionally rich melody accentuate the lyrics’ sorrow and beauty.

More than a love song, it reminds us to cherish each moment of life.

It’s a perfect recommendation when you want to savor time with someone important or feel the fragility and beauty of life.