Nobuyasu Okabayashi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

What we wantOkabayashi Nobuyasu1rank/position

What We Want / Nobuyasu Okabayashi with Happy End

A song by the god of folk who captured the hearts of young people in the so-called “season of politics” of the 1960s.

It cries out for a world that moves from the constraints of today to true freedom.

The message that freedom cannot be obtained unless you desire it—and that many things, in fact, stand in its way—is anything but outdated.

The 26th autumnOkabayashi Nobuyasu2rank/position

Nobuyasu Okabayashi ♪ The 26th Autumn (2010.10 Asahi Mountain Range, Otori Pond to Mt. Ito)

This song features a grandmother, but it doesn’t treat her as a central theme.

Still, it conveys Nobuyasu Okabayashi’s feelings for his grandmother and his way of thinking.

After a period when he was celebrated as the “original god of folk,” his misanthropy led to depression, and he even spent time farming in Mie Prefecture.

Many folk songs of the 1970s had lyrics themed around the “meaning of life” and “life” itself—songs that allowed young people to share their struggles.

This song belongs to that era.

Sanya BluesOkabayashi Nobuyasu3rank/position

Yamaya Blues <Nobuyasu Okabayashi>

Released in 1968, this song hurled a sense of helpless anger and questioning at society, and Nobuyasu Okabayashi was suddenly hailed as the “God of Folk.” However, burdened by that label, he found himself troubled and set out on a path of searching and experimentation.

Kusokurae-bushiOkabayashi Nobuyasu4rank/position

Kusokurae Bushi (To Hell with It Song) by Nobuyasu Okabayashi

This is a single released independently by Nobuyasu Okabayashi in 1968.

It’s a song that satirizes politicians and those in power, and listening to it feels refreshing.

A major-label version with a different title was also produced, but it ended up being banned from release.

Song of the SkeletonOkabayashi Nobuyasu5rank/position

Song of the Skeletons - Nobuyasu Okabayashi

Nobuyasu Okabayashi, born July 22, 1946.

Folk singer.

In 1968, he participated in the 3rd Kyoto Folk Camp.

That same year, he debuted with Victor with “Sanya Blues.” He sang anti-war folk songs and was hailed as the “God of Folk.” His songs pair humorous melodies with sharp, biting messages.

FriendOkabayashi Nobuyasu6rank/position

Friend

A powerful folk song that echoes in the darkness before dawn.

Released in September 1969, it is a signature work by Nobuyasu Okabayashi.

Together with the resonance of the acoustic guitar, its call to friends permeates the heart.

It was intertwined with the social movements of the time and deeply moved many people.

The song sparked a major response, even being sung by all participants at the All Japan Folk Jamboree.

Its universal message of hope and resolve continues to be loved by many across generations.

It’s the perfect track when you want to feel the bonds of friendship or need the courage to face hardship.