Southern All Stars Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Midsummer FruitSazan Ōrusutāzu15rank/position

Midsummer Fruit

Southern All Stars’ “Manatsu no Kajitsu” (Midsummer Fruit) is a song released in 1990 as the theme for the film Inamura Jane.

Its gentle acoustic sound is striking, and the lyrics portray poignant summer scenes.

Among Southern All Stars’ many hits, it could be considered a signature ballad.

As for commercial use, it was featured in a Recruit TV ad for Weekly B-ing starring Keisuke Kuwata; the contrast between the sorrowful song playing and Kuwata’s rapid speech in the commercial left a memorable impression.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

kappamaki

Report a problem

Minna no UtaSazan Ōrusutāzu16rank/position

Minna no Uta

A heartwarming classic by Southern All Stars that gently wraps everyday scenes and people’s feelings in warmth.

Released in June 1988, this song was featured as an insert track in the film “Her in a Swim Suit” and used in a commercial for Asahi Soft Drinks’ Mitsuya Cider.

With a sparkling arrangement by Takeshi Kobayashi, it’s crafted into a poppy, catchy number.

The band performed it during their first appearance on TV Asahi’s Music Station, and its live shows are known for a distinctive routine where the audience waves their arms.

Highly praised by Tatsuro Yamashita, it’s a tune everyone can sing and dance to.

Perfect for gatherings with family and friends, or for moments when you want to bask in nostalgia.

YOUSazan Ōrusutāzu17rank/position

YOU

This is a commercial announcing Uniqlo’s Thanksgiving event, celebrating the brand’s 40th anniversary in 2024.

The BGM features “YOU,” a track from the 1990 album Southern All Stars.

In the CM, Haruka Ayase, Kohei Matsushita, and Yumi Kawai perform in a musical-like style in time with the song.

With singing, dancing, and acting, it’s a commercial packed with highlights.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Ya Ya (I Won’t Forget That Era)Sazan Ōrusutāzu18rank/position

Yaya, I Won’t Forget That Era — Southern All Stars

A single released in 1982 by Southern All Stars, one of Japan’s iconic rock bands.

Though they’re often associated with summer and a lively image, this work is a ballad that tenderly reflects on days gone by, and it has left a deep impression on many fans.

The lyrics mention the name of the light music club that Keisuke Kuwata belonged to during his time at Aoyama Gakuin University, and it’s said that scenes from the campus are woven into the song.

These depictions, grounded in real experience, resonate with listeners’ own youthful memories and evoke empathy across generations.

In 1995, the song was included in high school music textbooks, a recognition of its excellence as a piece of pop music within educational settings.

It was also used in a commercial for Mazda’s MPV.

It’s a perfect song to listen to during graduation season for anyone wishing to look back on irreplaceable moments.

Aya ~Aja~Sazan Ōrusutāzu19rank/position

Southern All Stars – Aya ~Aja~ [Official Music Video] Short ver.

This work is characterized by a refreshing melody that evokes the feeling of spring air.

Keisuke Kuwata’s wistful vocals, together with the gentle tones of acoustic guitar and piano, enhance the emotional expression when sung at karaoke.

Released in April 2004, it was chosen as the theme song for Japan Airlines (JAL) campaign “FLY! JAL! ’04 Spring.” Centered on the end of a romance and the emotions that follow, it portrays deep nostalgia and longing for a lost love, as well as the hope of reunion.

It’s a recommended song for those who have experienced a parting in spring or who carry feelings for someone dear.

Relay ~ Forest PoemSazan Ōrusutāzu20rank/position

Southern All Stars – Relay ~ Mori no Uta [Official Music Video]

UNIQLO’s HEATTECH commercial “Love is Heat” is a heartwarming ad that showcases couples from around the world alongside the catchphrase, “You are my HEATTECH.” Every couple looks so close and happy that the commercial leaves viewers feeling warm inside.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Sha-la-laSazan Ōrusutāzu21rank/position

Sha-la-la

That beloved song, cherished by many fans as a timeless classic that continues to shine in our memories.

It was released in November 1980 as the Southern All Stars’ 11th single.

Written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata and performed as a duet with Yuko Hara, it was also included on the cassette-only album “Early Southern All Stars.” The lyrics are striking for their message about a deep bond with a loved one and the feeling that your hearts remain together even when you’re apart.

It’s perfect for a winter night, listening while imagining time spent with someone special against the traditional charm of Yokohama as a backdrop.

And don’t miss the live performances!