Iconic and Popular Songs by THE YELLOW MONKEY (Iemon)
Here’s an introduction to songs by THE YELLOW MONKEY, the legendary band that created a huge buzz with their 2016 reunion announcement.
Their music is straightforward, cool rock that has captivated countless fans, with total CD sales surpassing 10 million copies.
Many fans must have rejoiced and felt their hearts race at the news of their reunion.
Interestingly, the band name THE YELLOW MONKEY is a term that Westerners have used derogatorily toward people from Eastern Europe, but the band chose it to express their commitment to making distinctly Japanese rock.
Now, in celebration of their return to activity, please enjoy this playlist of Yemon’s songs.
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The Yellow Monkey’s classic and popular songs (1–10)
ROCK STARTHE YELLOW MONKEY

This is a track from their third album, “jaguar hard pain.” It depicts Yoshii’s desire to become a rock star.
A live version was later included on the best live album “SO ALIVE.” It’s one of their live staples, with lyrics that sing of Yoshii’s dreams and hopes, such as wanting to be “a rock star whose death makes the newspaper.”
Psychic No. 9THE YELLOW MONKEY

This is a song where the bass is just insanely cool! When I heard HEESEY play it solo right in front of me, the way it resonated was completely different from any other bassist! The deep low tones hit you in the gut—it’s one of my favorite rock numbers! Among The Yellow Monkey’s later-period songs, this is one I absolutely love!
Freesia BoyTHE YELLOW MONKEY

A song that recounts the time when vocalist Kazuya Yoshii was still in Shizuoka Prefecture.
It includes the lyric “My melody violated at seventeen,” and it describes the period when Yoshii had just joined the band before THE YELLOW MONKEY.
The Yellow Monkey’s classic and popular songs (11–20)
Rose Courtesan ReinaTHE YELLOW MONKEY

Though the title is shocking, the song portrays the relationship between Jaguar, a soldier featured in the concept of the third album, and a prostitute named Reina.
The guitar in the interlude has a Latin feel, and when combined with the violin, it creates an even more seductive finish.
SUCK OF LIFETHE YELLOW MONKEY

This is a song that portrays a male homosexual.
During live performances, there’s a member introduction in the middle of the song.
There’s also interaction between guitarist Hideaki Kikuchi and vocalist Kazuya Yoshii.
It’s a song often played live and very popular with fans.
It’s one I’m excited to see after their comeback.
SHOCK HEARTSTHE YELLOW MONKEY

It’s a song with a striking PV that features snippets of old American films.
Kazuya Yoshii’s bluish-purple eyeshadow gives off a bewitching vibe that you can’t take your eyes off.
The bassline on this track is incredibly cool—classic Heese style!
LOVERS ON BACKSTREETHE YELLOW MONKEY

A track included on the indie album “Bunched Birth.” It’s the first song Yoshii wrote for THE YELLOW MONKEY.
He was so excited about forming the band that he crammed in too many ideas, making it a difficult piece for the members to perform.
It was re-recorded as the B-side to “Nettaiya” (Tropical Night).


