THE YELLOW MONKEY Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Primal.THE YELLOW MONKEY8rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Primal.

Do you know a rock track perfect for graduation season, where a hint of melancholy drifts beneath a glamorous sound? It’s a song by THE YELLOW MONKEY, one of Japan’s leading rock bands.

Released in January 2001 as their 24th single just before the band went on hiatus, it had no tie-in at the time, yet became a long-running hit thanks to its timeless appeal.

It’s included on releases such as the album “GOLDEN YEARS Singles 1996-2001.” During their 2016 reunion tour, it was performed as the opening number, serving as a bridge between the end of the past and a new beginning.

With its rich, layered production featuring Tony Visconti, just singing it will give you a rush of exhilaration.

Why not channel Kazuya Yoshii’s sultry style and sing it for a friend embarking on a new chapter?

Sand TowerTHE YELLOW MONKEY9rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY / Tower of Sand

This is the 25th single by the four-piece rock band THE YELLOW MONKEY, known for their glamorous sound reminiscent of glam rock and for their energetic activity since reuniting in 2016.

Written as the theme song for the TV drama “Suna no Tou: Shirisugita Rinjin” (Tower of Sand: The Neighbor Who Knew Too Much), the track carries a sense of melancholy in its mysterious, minor-key melody.

The bouncy, 16-beat–inflected bass solo is simple yet heightens anticipation for the guitar solo that follows.

It’s a cool piece that reminds us a solo doesn’t have to be flashy to be effective.

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Hoshino Takashi

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BURNTHE YELLOW MONKEY10rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – BURN

This work is striking for its tense, pulse-pounding drum rhythm.

Combined with Kazuya Yoshii’s passionate vocals, it powerfully shakes the listener’s heart.

Released in July 1997, it became a popular song that was also used as the theme for the TBS drama “Shokuinshitsu” (The Staff Room).

In a 2013 fan poll it placed 10th, and it has been included on best-of albums, remaining beloved for many years.

The lyrics depict inner conflict and emotional shifts, conveying a strong will to move forward despite being hurt.

It’s a song whose deep appeal resonates more as you grow older.

All the more reason to listen to it when you’re struggling with work or relationships.

trapTHE YELLOW MONKEY11rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Trap (Official Music Video)

THE YELLOW MONKEY is a rock band that still boasts enduring popularity thanks to their overwhelming charisma.

Since they’ve also worked on anime songs, even guys in their teens might know them.

Among their tracks, the one I particularly recommend is Wana (“Trap”).

This piece features a garage rock-style, downer rock sound as its hallmark.

True to Yemon’s style, the chorus feels composed and contains no high notes at all, making it very easy to sing.

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Ryo

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SO YOUNGTHE YELLOW MONKEY12rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – SO YOUNG

The Yellow Monkey’s “SO YOUNG” is a song about the love of two people who were too young.

Released as a single in 1999, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon Singles Chart and was used as the theme song for the film “trancemission.” Composed in London during an overseas tour and recorded in New York, it’s said to be a particularly special track for Kazuya Yoshii, who wrote the lyrics and music and serves as the vocalist.

The lyrics remind us that “the present exists thanks to the past,” and the melancholic, wistful sound leaves a strong impression.

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Hamada Takuya

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Trip to HeavenTHE YELLOW MONKEY13rank/position

Heaven Trip (Remastered)

A deep sonic world that envelops loneliness and despair unfolds in THE YELLOW MONKEY’s song.

Kazuya Yoshii’s philosophical lyrics and distinctive vocals stir the listener’s heart.

Released in May 2017, this track showcased a new form of expression after the band’s reunion.

It portrays the grand theme of a journey to heaven with an emotional sound.

Perfect for days when you want to escape reality or when you want to think deeply.

In live performances, it has the power to transform the atmosphere and continues to be etched into fans’ hearts.

tropical nightTHE YELLOW MONKEY14rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Tropical Night

Tropical nights where the stifling heat won’t let you sleep—that’s the theme of the love song “Nettaiya.” It’s a track by THE YELLOW MONKEY, weaving together the swelter of a tropical night with the rising passion between two people.

Coupled with an intense rock sound, singing it might just blow the heat away.

Since it repeats memorable phrases, it’s also perfect for getting everyone hyped and singing along.

It seems great for clapping or adding a tambourine, too.

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yamamoto

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