Masterpieces by Spitz: A list of recommended popular songs and signature tracks
Let me introduce songs by Spitz, one of Japan’s most iconic national rock bands.
Spitz is a four-member band that has been active since 1987, and they’ve continued with the original lineup since their formation.
The band originally grew out of a group that Masamune Kusano, the vocalist and guitarist, played in during his student days.
Interestingly, that earlier band was a punk rock band, quite different from what they’re known for now.
They also have roots in heavier genres like metal.
Given their strong association with gentle, ballad-like songs such as “Robinson” and “Sora mo Toberu Hazu” (“I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky”), that might come as a bit of a surprise.
With that, please enjoy Spitz’s music—where the quiet leaves a strong impression precisely because of the intensity they keep beneath the surface.
Spitz’s classic songs: A list of recommended popular and signature tracks (1–10)
Beyond the purple nightsupittsu
The way the scene gradually opens up from the darkness and the gentle melody befitting the end of the day really lingers in your ears, doesn’t it? Even while carrying pain and loneliness, the worldview of the lyrics—quietly trying to make it through the night—seems to gently stay close to the hearts of those of us living today.
Released in March 2021, marking the 30th anniversary of their major debut, this piece was written as the ending theme for TBS’s news program “news23.” It was later included on the album “Himitsu Studio.” Listening alone in the stillness of late night, reflecting on the day, you might even feel a faint hope for tomorrow.
That gentle girlsupittsu
Released in June 2019 as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Natsuzora, this was their 42nd single.
The track later went on to open the album “Mikke.” Its worldview—juxtaposing the harsh winters of Tokachi, Hokkaido, where the drama is set, with the beauty of the summer that follows—leaves a strong impression.
The vastness of the sky that Masamune Kusano felt during his visit there is brilliantly distilled into a sprightly rhythm and a warm, embracing band sound.
Widely loved, the song earned the band their first No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Singles Chart.
With its easy-to-remember melody, it’s a perfect pick not only for your morning commute to work or school, but also for singing at karaoke.
prophetic dreamsupittsu
Released on November 10, 2004 as the 29th single, it received a double tie-in as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Medaka” and as Fujifilm’s corporate commercial song.
KAN is listed under Special Thanks in the credits because the lyrics include a quotation from “Ai wa Katsu” (Love Will Win).
Maplesupittsu
It’s the 19th single, released on July 7, 1998.
It’s a slightly mellow, mid‑tempo number, and many fans are captivated by the expansive yet wistful vocals in the chorus.
It has also been featured frequently in TV dramas and commercials.
harborsupittsu
It’s the 41st single, released on April 27, 2016, and the jacket uses the 1933 film “Musical Comedy: A Tipsy Life.” Also, the whistling in the instrumental break is by Wataru Sawabe of Skirt.
The lyrics are truly wonderful!
Ysupittsu
With lyrics that evoke bittersweet farewells and life’s crossroads, paired with a lyrical melody that tightens the chest, this mid-tempo ballad leaves you feeling cleansed each time you listen.
Featured on the classic 1995 album “Honey,” this track was never released as a single, yet it has graced numerous screen productions across eras, including the 1996 drama “Hakusen Nagashi” and the 2022 hit “silent,” making it a celebrated insert song.
It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to sink into alone on a quiet night; while it lacks flashy shifts, that restraint lets you fully immerse yourself in its world.
The vocal range isn’t particularly wide, and there are few belted high notes, making it an excellent choice when you want to deliver a tender performance at karaoke.
If I could live with yousupittsu
A medium-tempo number filled with gentle warmth that helps you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
While it doesn’t have any flashy climaxes, its worldview—depicting the small joys of daily life with a touch of wistfulness—deeply resonates with listeners.
It was included as the closing track on the sixth album, “Hachimitsu,” released in September 1995.
Though it wasn’t released as a single, it has long been cherished by fans as a crucial piece that defines the lingering afterglow of this classic album.
With few leaps in vocal range and a simple melody, it’s something you can sing naturally and without strain.
It’s a perfect song for moments when you want to feel the preciousness of ordinary time spent with someone dear, or when you wish to quietly lose yourself in thought on a still night.