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

Two People in a Fading CitySazan Ōrusutāzu

Two People in a Fading City

This is a gently melancholic song that evokes a twilight cityscape and seeps into the heart.

It’s included on the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH,” released in March 2025 by Southern All Stars, the rock band that has led the Japanese music scene for many years.

The lyrics portray a man and woman in a delicate, not-quite-lovers relationship, with only time slipping by—a sense of helplessness conveyed through Keisuke Kuwata’s tenacious, resonant vocals.

The track also serves as the theme song for the film “Sunflower on the Board,” enveloping the story in a lingering afterglow.

I especially recommend it to anyone seeking a ballad that quietly stays by your side at the end of the day when you’re alone, or when you’re carrying feelings that are hard to put into words.

Heaven on the BeachSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Heaven on the Beach [Official Music Video]

A warm, feel-good track reminiscent of theme songs from Showa-era variety shows.

Speaking of Southern All Stars, it’s all about summer! Blending in some risqué humor, it paints a quintessentially “Southern” summer scene.

The music video features a star-studded lineup of artists, joyfully dancing to choreography by Papaya Suzuki.

Sing, sky of JapanSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sing, Sky of Japan [Official Music Video]

Set to a comfortable Latin groove, this song is filled with love for Japan.

It sings of Chigasaki, Kuwata’s hometown, and his enduring affection for Victor Studio, where he has made music for many years.

Inspired by the phrase “the sky is connected,” which resonated with Kuwata, the piece expresses gratitude for the many hometowns across Japan.

Released in August 2023, it became the second single commemorating the 45th anniversary of Southern All Stars’ debut.

Serving as the theme song for Chigasaki Live 2023, it has also been performed on TV programs such as Music Station.

With a refreshing vibe that evokes a seaside town, the track also carries a touch of wistfulness—a summer song that makes you want to listen while thinking of cherished places and loved ones.

Kotodama of LoveSazan Ōrusutāzu

Kotodama of Love - Hatsune Miku (a cover of Southern All Stars).

This one is quite a famous song as well, isn’t it? It was used in the Nippon TV drama “Invisible Man.” The rather enigmatic melody leaves a striking impression.

Peace and highlightSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Peace and Highlight [Official Music Video]

Both “Peace” and “Hi-Lite” are cigarette brands sold by JT, and it’s said their names literally carry the meanings “peace” and “a place more in the sunlight,” respectively.

Incidentally, Kuwa­ta Keisuke’s father used to smoke Peace, while Kuwa­ta Keisuke himself once smoked Hi-Lite.

Ya Ya (I Won’t Forget That Era)Sazan Ōrusutāzu

× (with revised version) [Karaoke] Ya Ya (We Won’t Forget That Era) / Southern All Stars

It’s a ballad with a gentle, soothing rhythm.

In Mazda’s MPV commercial, a jazz instrumental version was used.

In the title, “ya” means the same as “you” and is often used to address someone you’re close to.

Love is like a flower (Ole!)Sazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Love Is Like a Flower (Ole!) [Live at Yokohama Arena, 2020]

This commercial showcases the warmth and sense of reassurance that UNIQLO’s Pufftech offers, conveyed through appearances by Haruka Ayase and Kohei Matsushita.

It also highlights the compactness that lets you quickly pull it out when you feel cold, expressing a balance of ease of use and effectiveness.

The song that further accentuates the comfort and warmth portrayed in the visuals is Southern All Stars’ “Ai wa Hana no You ni (Ole!).” With its Spain-inspired sound and lyrics, the track leaves a strong impression, evoking both lightness and a passionate atmosphere.

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