RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

[The Spirit of Japan] A special feature on Southern All Stars’ classic hits. Gemlike songs

Since their debut in 1978, the band Southern All Stars has delivered countless hit songs and beloved national anthems.

Their music, which has spanned the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras, is deeply rooted in the hearts of many listeners.

Frontman Keisuke Kuwata pours an extraordinary love and respect into kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), and part of their charm lies in that sensibility—along with a playful sound that skillfully weaves Japanese and English, and irresistibly catchy hooks.

Above all, the band’s warm, inviting vibe is wonderful.

From uplifting anthems that give you a push, to the erotically bold lyrics that are their trademark, all the way to emotional pop songs, they have a wide array of classics.

Let’s dive into the world of Southern All Stars’ music!

[Spirit of Japan] A Special Feature on Southern All Stars’ Masterpieces: Exquisite Songs (111–120)

Woman of the Red FlameSazan Ōrusutāzu

The Spanish-style music performed by Southern All Stars feels a bit different from other Latin-influenced songs, doesn’t it? The lyrics are about lesbians, and in terms of sound, Kuwata’s voice and singing style evoke not so much passion as a faint sense of danger and the depths of human nature.

If a song with that atmosphere flows over a Latin groove, there’s simply no reason not to be captivated (lol).

His husky voice enhances the track even more.

And the genius is that even this kind of sound gets turned into pure “Southern” style.

Yoshizaki Keiko
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[Spirit of Japan] A Special on Southern All Stars’ Masterpieces: Gems of Songs (121–130)

When I feel like seeing you, you aren’t here.Sazan Ōrusutāzu

When I feel like I want to see you, you’re not here [2024 Remaster]
When I feel like seeing you, you aren’t here.Sazan Ōrusutāzu

This is a commercial for AIRism, one of Uniqlo’s items that comes in handy during the hot summer months.

The ad features Haruka Ayase and Kohei Matsushita wearing AIRism in the heat; even as they sweat, their bright expressions underscore AIRism’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying qualities.

The song used is Southern All Stars’ “Aitaku Natta Toki ni Kimi wa Koko ni Inai” (“When I Want to See You, You’re Not Here”), whose refreshing sound and gentle vocals convey the breeziness of summer and the soft, comfortable feel of AIRism.

kappamaki
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When I feel like seeing you, you aren’t here.Sazan Ōrusutāzu

When I want to see you, you're not here - Acoustic (Hikigatari) - Southern All Stars - untaro
When I feel like seeing you, you aren’t here.Sazan Ōrusutāzu

It’s included on Southern All Stars, their ninth original album released in 1990.

It’s a song by Southern All Stars, with lyrics and music by Keisuke Kuwata, and it is also sung by Kuwata.

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Lovestruck Monthly DaySazan Ōrusutāzu

Monthly Day in Love / The 'Southern Vintages Band' that plays only old Southern (All Stars) at the Fuurin Southern Gathering
Lovestruck Monthly DaySazan Ōrusutāzu

A reggae-style track reminiscent of Bob Marley.

Its gently swinging tempo exudes a sexy, languid vibe.

The stylish yet slightly dark arrangement wonderfully captures the melancholy of “Monthly Day.”

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In conclusion

Looking back on it again, those are truly a number of masterpieces! There are songs that highlight a Japanese aesthetic, erotic ones, ballads, and even fight songs—so many different styles.

Which type did you like best? The big hits are wonderful, of course, but there are also great tracks that aren’t as well-known sales-wise, so I hope you’ll give lots of them a listen.