THE YELLOW MONKEY Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

JAMTHE YELLOW MONKEY1rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – JAM

When it comes to THE YELLOW MONKEY’s signature songs that pioneered a uniquely Japanese brand of rock, many people probably think of this track included on the single “JAM/Tactics,” released in February 1996.

Chosen as the ending theme for NHK’s “Pop Jam,” it helped bring the band into the wider public eye.

It’s a rock ballad marked by a pipe organ–like intro, and its powerful message—singing of loneliness and a sense of alienation from society—has continued to resonate deeply with many across generations.

Whether you were moved by it in your youth or are hearing it for the first time now, it’s a timeless classic that draws you in the moment the intro starts, regardless of age.

Why not play it for an intro quiz at your event and have everyone sing along together?

PearlTHE YELLOW MONKEY2rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Pearl

When it comes to bands most admired by men in their 40s, THE YELLOW MONKEY surely comes to mind.

Their music is captivating with a certain sensuality and wistfulness beneath a youthful vibe, and they continue to be supported by a wide range of generations today.

Among their songs, the one I especially recommend is Pearl.

It’s an intense track, but because it has few long sustained notes and a relatively narrow vocal range, most men should be able to sing it well.

Be sure to check it out.

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Ryo

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SPARKTHE YELLOW MONKEY3rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – SPARK

This is a rock number by THE YELLOW MONKEY that sings of passionate love.

It paints a worldview where you close your eyes and share a space with the night, and within its sensual expressions lies a pure heart wishing for eternal love.

The energetic guitar riffs and rhythm section leave a strong impression, and Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals resound over the dynamic sound.

Released in July 1996, the song drew attention as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Handsome Man.” It was also included on the album “SICKS” and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a perfect song for enjoying karaoke with friends, full of a charm that lets everyone open their hearts and sing along.

Days in rosy huesTHE YELLOW MONKEY4rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Rose-Colored Days

A four-piece rock band whose sexy and mysterious musicality—tinged with glam rock influences—continues to captivate fans, THE YELLOW MONKEY’s 19th single.

The song was used as the ending theme for the music program “Pop Jam” and as the theme song for the TV anime “Ten: Akagi Shigeru Funeral Arc,” and it’s also known as being positioned as a “theme song for the band and its fans.” Its passionate yet wistful ensemble and melodies are quintessential THE YELLOW MONKEY.

It’s a rock tune with a positive vibe that lifts your spirits and pushes you to keep moving forward, even when you’re hurt.

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Hoshino Takashi

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The sun is burning.THE YELLOW MONKEY5rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – The Sun Is Burning

A song that portrays a passionate love blazing like the sun—perfect for the summer heat.

Its powerful rock sound and Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals weave a fiery message that can’t help but set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

Released in January 2022, it was also chosen as the opening theme for TV Asahi’s “J.League A GOGO!!,” earning love from a wide audience.

Recommended for those who want a refreshing feeling while driving or who want to belt it out at karaoke.

It’s sure to become the perfect track for making summer memories.

I don’t knowTHE YELLOW MONKEY6rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – I don’t know

A song by THE YELLOW MONKEY, a four-piece rock band affectionately known as “The Yemon,” who reunited in 2016.

The effectively scattered irregular time signatures throughout the track make it one you’ll want to listen to again.

It’s a number you’ll want to hear while running—not only does focusing on the music help take your mind off the strain, but the quintessential Yemon melody is also pleasantly soothing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Mermaid of ReminiscenceTHE YELLOW MONKEY7rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Reminiscence Mermaid

THE YELLOW MONKEY is a four-piece rock band whose look and songs, influenced by glam rock, have won them popularity.

Their seventh single, “Tsuioku no Mermaid,” which was used as the ending theme for the infotainment program Hanakin Data Land, is notable for its sexy lyrics.

The passionate vocals and straightforward rock ensemble evoke the image of a blazing summer romance.

It’s a recommended rock tune as summer background music, with a fleeting, bittersweet worldview that lifts your spirits.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Primal.THE YELLOW MONKEY8rank/position

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Primal.

This is a song by THE YELLOW MONKEY, notable for its upbeat rhythm and refreshing melody.

While calm, its light rhythm is the key highlight, with the bass progressing in simple, steady pulses that align with the drums.

Precisely because there are no complex phrases, rhythmic awareness is essential—let’s support the whole piece firmly together with the drums.

With stable grooves and volume that helps other instruments stand out, this seems like a track that will help you firmly build your fundamentals.

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kappamaki

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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.