Tatsuro Yamashita Popular Song Rankings [2026]

heronYamashita Tatsuro15rank/position

Heron – Tatsuro Yamashita

When it comes to music that blends seamlessly into various Japanese situations, Tatsuro Yamashita comes to mind.

“Heron,” meaning great blue heron, is his 30th single, released in 1998, and it seems it was used as the song for a Kirin Lager Beer commercial around the time of the Nagano Winter Olympics.

While it doesn’t explicitly mention winter, its atmosphere of heading toward dawn and its rhythmic groove feel like a perfect match for the refreshing lift you want from winter sports.

It has that comfortable quality that would slip right in even if it started playing as background music on the ski slopes.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

Saturday LoverYamashita Tatsuro16rank/position

Saturday Lover – Tatsuro Yamashita

The 15th single, Saturday Lover, was chosen as the ending theme for the legendary variety show Oretachi Hyokin-zoku.

Its light ensemble and lyrics that evoke weekend nights are sure to heighten your sense of anticipation just by listening.

While the vocal range isn’t wide, there are many interval leaps, so it’s important to be mindful of each note as you sing.

For those of that generation, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going—a pop tune notable for its refreshing clarity and airy feel.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Solid SliderYamashita Tatsuro17rank/position

SOLID SLIDER / Junk FujiYama (JUNK FUJIYAMA)

When it comes to artists who represent Japanese city pop that’s drawing worldwide attention, Tatsuro Yamashita is indispensable.

“SOLID SLIDER” is a track featured at the end of his 1977 masterpiece “SPACY.” The drum pattern, which slips the accent forward from where it should land on the fourth beat, is striking and meshes perfectly with the gritty, buzzing bass line.

The electric guitar solo in the interlude also hits all the right spots—an outstanding performance.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hamada Takuya

Report a problem

SomedayYamashita Tatsuro18rank/position

[Cover] Tatsuro Yamashita - Someday

This song is a track included on an album released in 1980.

In that year, Shigeo Nagashima, the Yomiuri Giants’ lifetime honorary manager, resigned, and player Sadaharu Oh retired.

Otsuka Foods’ sports drink became popular.

It was also around this time that “Ihōjin” became a hit.

FUTARIYamashita Tatsuro19rank/position

Singer-songwriter Tatsuro Yamashita delivers a distinctive sound that blends fusion and city pop to his listeners.

He’s also known for playing virtually every instrument himself.

“FUTARI,” featured on his 1982 album FOR YOU, is a track packed with the charm that has earned him fans around the world.

Its airy synths resonate with a dramatic flair, and the warm choral work that brings a sense of comfort is also a must-hear.

Why not lend an ear to this Showa-era classic by a musician beloved across generations?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

MUSIC BOOKYamashita Tatsuro20rank/position

The song “MUSIC BOOK,” included as the B-side to the ninth single “Amaku Kiken na Kaori,” is a single cut from the sixth album “FOR YOU.” Its intro, colored by soulful choral work and refreshing strings, leaves a strong impression.

With a steady dynamics, a narrow vocal range, and a relaxed melody, it’s easy to try even for those who aren’t confident singers.

It’s a breezy pop tune with a stylish arrangement that’s sure to liven up any karaoke session.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Donut SongYamashita Tatsuro21rank/position

♪ Donut Song: National Route 1, Yatomi to Nagashima

This is a track included on the 1998 album “COZY,” written by Tatsuro Yamashita specifically for a Mister Donut commercial.

The reason I’m introducing this song now as one you may feel you’ve heard somewhere is that Masaki Suda covered it in a Mister Donut commercial in 2023.

The chorus has an extremely addictive melody that’s striking, and the song has a mysterious charm that makes you feel happy as you listen.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem