A roundup of songs from Suzuki commercials: the appeal of friendly J-pop and Western music
Speaking of Suzuki, in addition to popular kei cars like the Spacia, Hustler, and Alto, the lineup is known for being approachable, with models like the Solio—a compact family car that’s also very popular.
Even when you’re watching TV, you often see commercials for these hit models, right?
In this article, we’ll introduce the songs that have been used in commercials for Suzuki’s popular models.
Suzuki’s commercials feature not only popular J-pop, but also many covers of classic hits, and a lot of them are really catchy in their presentation.
More recently, there’s also been an increase in original songs made specifically for the commercials.
All of the songs tend to stick in your head, so you might find yourself thinking, “What’s that song called?”
There are plenty of classics you may have heard even if you didn’t know their names!
A roundup of songs from Suzuki commercials: the appeal of friendly J-pop and Western music (1–10)
Original songFumitake Igarashi
A stylish commercial introducing the allure of the new Spacia Custom, titled “Refinement Is Born.” An original track by Fumitake Igarashi, which evokes an urban vibe, is used as the BGM and pairs perfectly with the Spacia Custom’s sophisticated atmosphere.
LandscapeRyokushokushakai
A song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai, a four-piece pop-rock band affectionately known as Ryokushaka, whose richly varied tracks—born of their unique pop sensibility—are especially popular among younger listeners.
Written specifically for the Suzuki Solio Bandit commercial “Countdown: Sun-dappled Light,” the track’s chorus delivers a liberating rush that feels wonderfully refreshing.
The driving beat, the memorable chord progression, and the powerful, crystalline vocals layered on top make it a song you’ll want to listen to while on the road.
Its breezy feel makes it a perfect car-commercial anthem—one you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Are You Gonna Go My WayLenny Kravitz
It’s one of the signature songs by popular guitarist and singer-songwriter Lenny Kravitz, also known in Japanese as “A Dash for Freedom.” It was used in commercials for the ever-popular Alto Works, which has long enjoyed a devoted following.
The track’s distinctive guitar riff and full-on rock vibe perfectly match the sporty image of the Alto Works.
Although it was released in 1993, many people—including younger generations—have probably heard it.
That’s because, in addition to the Alto Works ads, it was also featured in commercials for Nissan and Wilkinson.
Travel is better with companions.Ofisharu Higedan Dism
Released in 2019, the Swift commercial features the song “Tabi wa Michizure” by Official HIGE DANDism.
The ad was created around the concepts of the Swift’s refined design and the fun, exhilarating driving experience.
Paired with the theme song, it really highlights the Swift’s cool appeal and how great it feels to drive, doesn’t it?
That’s The Way A Woman IsThe Messengers
This commercial for Suzuki’s compact SUV, the Hustler, expresses the excitement of being able to go anywhere.
It depicts, in an animated style, the Hustler dashing through the charming world of a picture book.
The BGM features an original arrangement of The Messengers’ “That’s The Way A Woman Is.” Even if you don’t recognize the title, many of you have probably heard this song.
Parade – PARADEMORISAKI WIN
Morisaki Win’s debut song “Parade – PARADE,” which played in the Solio Bandit “Countdown Drive” commercial, has a vibe that blends Toshinobu Kubota and Daichi Miura—nice groove with a touch of romance, a feel-good number.
It’s so comfortable you’ll find your body swaying the whole time, and the instrumental break is fantastic too! It’s a refreshing track that makes you want to take off running—truly a driving song—and a perfect match as BGM for a day off, don’t you think? Looks like it’s going to be a fun day!
Kiss the windGLIM SPANKY
In the 2024 Solio Bandit commercial “Shiritori Drive,” featuring Kanna Hashimoto and Fuju Kamio, the two are shown playing shiritori while driving.
It starts out raining, but by the end of the ad the weather clears and a rainbow appears before them! This charming, refreshing spot uses GLIM SPANKY’s “Kaze ni Kisu o Shite” as its BGM.
Released in 2024, the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut, the song was crafted with the image of a breezy tune you’d want to hum along to while driving.
Just as they intended, it’s a perfect track for a sunny-day drive.
Je te veuxÉric Alfred Leslie Satie
A commercial that introduces the appeal of the Fronx’s design from the perspective of a furniture craftsman.
Alongside narration about how the combination of straight and curved lines creates a beautiful design, the Fronx’s exterior is shown extensively.
It’s a striking ad that matches the tagline, “An option for beauty in an SUV.” The familiar background music is Erik Satie’s “Je te veux.” Many people might recognize the tune without knowing its title.
Alright!!Superfly
In the 2015 Escudo “Sprint” commercial, the song used was Superfly’s especially rock-leaning track “Alright!!”.
The ad showcased the Escudo tearing through all kinds of rough conditions— from unpaved roads and puddles to muddy, steep hills— with impressive speed.
Ochi Shiho’s vocals are so powerful they more than match the presence of such a tough SUV! It’s a popular song with a catchy melody and powerful vocals that make you want to sing along.
Run! -ZZ ver.-Momoiro Kurōbā Zetto
Speaking of Suzuki commercials, the ones featuring the members of Momoiro Clover Z were incredibly popular at the time, weren’t they? Of course, their songs were used, and in the “Free Vehicle Inspection: Announcement” version, one of their signature tracks, ‘Hashire! -ZZ ver.-,’ was featured.
The lyrics’ message, which aligns with the wish for people to go through the free inspection and drive safely, is really nice, isn’t it? The gentle, soothing melody also helps convey a sense of reassurance about the inspection, doesn’t it?