Hideki Saijo’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki1rank/position

HIDEKI SAIJO - YOUNG MAN

Hideki Saijo covered the Village People’s classic that sparked the disco boom from the late ’70s to the ’80s.

Released in February 1979, this song topped the Oricon Singles Chart for five consecutive weeks and became a huge hit, selling 1.808 million copies.

Its message—“Cheer up” and “When you’re young, you can do anything”—surely resonated with the youth of the time.

The choreography was distinctive too, with a performance that used the whole body to form the letters Y, M, C, and A, drawing the audience in.

It’s a recommended track not only for disco fans but also for anyone interested in ’70s music.

Sing it at karaoke and it’s guaranteed to get people of all ages excited!

Torn LoveSaijō Hideki2rank/position

Hideki Saijo - Torn Love

Hideki Saijo, a singer who captivated fans as one of the “New Big Three” of the pop world alongside Hiromi Go and Goro Noguchi.

His sixth single, “Chigireta Ai,” which earned him his first No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart, became a turning point for him as it was the first time he showcased the vocal style later called the ‘ze-ssho-gata’ (impassioned, full-throttle singing).

Its wistful melody and impactful vocals will likely resonate with those in their 60s, overlapping with their youthful days.

It is a Showa-era classic packed with the charm of vintage kayōkyoku.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Turn A TurnSaijō Hideki3rank/position

Turn A Turn ∀ Gundam

It was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Turn A Gundam.

With vocals by Hideki Saijo, music by Asei Kobayashi, and lyrics by Rin Iogi, the song was created by a lineup that has become legendary today.

The powerful vocals make it a cool rock number.

YOUNG MANSaijō Hideki4rank/position

Hideki Saijo – Young Man (Y.M.C.A.)

“YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)” is a nationally beloved hit released by Hideki Saijo in 1978.

Even today, it gets crowds at pro sports games dancing and singing together, turning the entire venue into one big celebration! True to the title “YOUNG MAN,” the song centers on bright, energetic youth, with lyrics that spark vitality and motivation.

The dance where you form the letters Y-M-C-A with your arms became a sensation, making it a pop song enjoyed by people of all ages.

Original songSaijō Hideki5rank/position

House Vermont Curry commercial: Hideki Saijo’s “Hideki Kange-ki!”

The famous catchphrase “Hideki, kanga-ki!” was born from House’s Vermont Curry commercials.

The late Hideki Saijo, who passed away in 2018, appeared in these ads for 12 years, from 1973 to 1985.

The song he showcased his beautiful voice with in the commercials was an original jingle for the ad.

In it, he sings together with the children appearing in the commercials, introducing the key feature of Vermont Curry—made with apples and honey.

His bright, resonant, soaring vocals are even more memorable than the product itself!

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SAKI

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Laura Covered in ScarsSaijō Hideki6rank/position

Hideki Saijo - Laura, Covered in Wounds

It’s one of Hideki Saijo’s signature songs, notable for its passionate vocals and powerful lyrics.

Released in August 1974, the track peaked at No.

2 on the Oricon charts and enjoyed a major hit run, staying on the charts for 24 weeks.

The lyrics were written by Daizo Saito, with music composed by Koji Makaino.

The song expresses devotion and support for a loved one, resonating deeply with listeners.

In fact, around the time of its release, Saijo reportedly injured his vocal cords and had to take a break, an experience that may have contributed to the depth of his performance.

It’s a song that can give you courage when you’re heartbroken or going through a tough time.

Run, Honest OneSaijō Hideki7rank/position

ED2 – Run, Honest Man

Superstar Hideki Saijo, who captivated countless fans with his passionate vocals and performances.

Among his many classic hits, this is an unmissable anime song that always fires up a karaoke crowd.

Released as a single in April 1991, it became beloved as the ending theme for the nationally treasured anime Chibi Maruko-chan.

Its brisk beat infused with ska rhythms and lyrics packed with playful, comical wordplay are irresistibly catchy.

The collaboration came about because the original creator, Momoko Sakura, was a fan of Saijo, with Tetsuro Oda handling the composition.

The unique phrase said to be inspired by a commercial from that era also leaves a strong impression, and listening to it will surely bring back memories of those days.

No tricky techniques required—belt it out with energy and power, and it’s a song that will put smiles on the faces of friends from the same generation.