A love song that reminds those in their 60s of a forgotten romance

Wine Red Heartanzenchitai

Wine Red No Kokoro

A gem of a love song that portrays an adult romance where reason and instinct intersect.

Its melody, passionate yet tinged with a certain fragility, and Koji Tamaki’s sweet, aching vocals resonate deeply.

When we look back on the loves of our past, perhaps the memories of forbidden romances we all may have experienced will vividly return.

Released in November 1983, this track became Anzen Chitai’s first number-one hit on the Oricon charts.

It also drew major attention as the image song for Suntory Akadama Punch’s commercial and as the theme song for the drama “Machigai Darake no Otto Erabi” (“Choosing the Wrong Husband”).

I recommend this piece to those who have experienced profound love that touches on the subtleties of life, or to anyone who wishes to convey long-slumbering feelings in their heart to someone special.

Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda “Red Sweet Pea” (from Seikoland: Budokan Live ’83)

This masterpiece, which poignantly and beautifully portrays the spring season when cherry blossoms bloom, was released in January 1982 as a single by Seiko Matsuda.

With Takashi Matsumoto’s delicate word choices and an unforgettable melody penned by Yumi Matsutoya under her pseudonym Kureta Keiko, the song superbly captures the changing seasons and the freshness of young love.

The vibrant voice of a 19-year-old delivers subtle psychological nuances and the fleeting scenes of romance with exquisite finesse, resonating deeply with listeners.

In 2009, it was also used as the CM song for Fujifilm’s skincare brand “ASTALIFT,” drawing attention when its memorable melody played in commercials featuring Miyuki Nakajima.

Its sweet-and-sour melody, evoking nostalgic memories and the arrival of spring, is a track you’ll want to hear when cherry blossoms are in the air.

The morning I had forgottenYamamoto Junko

Wasurete Ita Asa

The July 1971 single by the folk group Akai Tori is like a mental landscape that gently reflects the youth of those days.

Skillfully blending the essences of folk and pop, Junko Yamamoto’s clear, translucent vocals and the beautiful harmonies soothe the listener’s heart.

Rofu Yamagami’s poetic lyrics quietly evoke memories of days gone by, while Kunihiko Murai’s melody tenderly accompanies them.

Included on the album Akai Tori II, this piece features a calm arrangement that conveys the freshness of a morning breeze.

It’s a recommended song for moments when you want to pause amid a busy life to reflect on yourself, or when you feel like immersing yourself in cherished memories.

Tears on My BirthdayHOUND DOG

Tears on My Birthday

Released in 1982 by HOUND DOG, this song resonated with many as a ballad about the end of a romance.

Carried by a powerful rock sound, it conveys the protagonist’s regret and lingering feelings.

The lyrics depicting a breakup are brought to life by Yasuhira Otomo’s emotionally rich vocals.

Put out by Sony Music, this track gently envelops the pain of heartbreak, turning unhealed wounds into cherished memories.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a quiet night, together with the memory of a love you still can’t forget.

Mary AnnTHE ALFEE

Mary Ann

A classic youth anthem that beautifully fuses bittersweet romance with an energetic rock sound.

Released in June 1983, this track became THE ALFEE’s first major hit, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and No.

30 on the year-end ranking.

It later climbed to No.

3 on The Best Ten.

Riding this success, the band made their first appearance at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1983.

Also included on the album ALFEE’S LAW, the song has remained a beloved staple of THE ALFEE’s live performances.

With romantic lyrics woven together in perfect balance with hard rock, this piece is a must-listen for anyone cherishing a secret love.