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A wonderful Japanese music band

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.

The Yellow Monkey’s classic and popular songs (41–50)

SWEET&SWEETTHE YELLOW MONKEY

The B-side to the single “The Sun Is Burning.” Along with “I LOVE YOU BABY,” it features an unusually hard rock style for them and is really cool.

During live performances, Yoshii also plays guitar, and the three members at the front headbang while playing.

THE YELLOW MONKEY’s classic and popular songs (51–60)

Stone ButterflyTHE YELLOW MONKEY

It’s a very heavy, rock-driven track that hits you right in the gut.

The lyrics mention “chaku-melo” (custom ringtone), which gives it a bit of a dated feel.

The wordplay from Yoshii shines with lines like “yatsu Goman de hibi gaman de demo ude ga jimán no ore ganman de,” showing off his clever turns of phrase.

A lady wearing a hat with a silk scarfTHE YELLOW MONKEY

This song is the last track on the second album, but it’s a song about Marie, the lover of a man named Jaguar who appears on the upcoming third album, and it connects to the next album.

It’s written in a feminine voice, and it’s sung as if Marie has possessed the singer.

ITHE YELLOW MONKEY

There’s a part in the song where “Fuck Me!” is chanted repeatedly.

Yoshii said, “I want to see the audience at the Budokan raising their fists and shouting ‘Fuck Me!’” When they actually performed at the Budokan and he saw that scene, this was the song that brought a faint tear to his eyes.

Subjective Late ShowTHE YELLOW MONKEY

This is a track from the first album, “THE NIGHT SNAILS AND PLASTIC BOOGIE / 夜行性のかたつむり達とプラスチックのブギー.” It is said to be the first song the members played together when they reunited.

It’s also the title of the hall tour starting this fall.

During live shows, Yoshii performs Kamen Rider’s transformation pose in the instrumental break.

A Kiss to MaryTHE YELLOW MONKEY

This is a track from the fourth album, “smile.” It continues from the previous work, “jaguar hard pain.” Marie is the name of Jaguar’s girlfriend, the protagonist of the previous album.

This song epitomizes the album’s concept of “hard French pop.”

SICKSTHE YELLOW MONKEY

A quintessential work by THE YELLOW MONKEY, a band that has led Japan’s rock scene, is their sixth album “SICKS,” released in January 1997.

Topping the Oricon charts, the album features a diverse array of tracks that blend elements of hard rock and glam rock.

With Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals, highly message-driven lyrics, and the band’s exceptional musicianship in perfect harmony, this is a must-listen not only for rock fans.

Including standout tracks like “Rakuen,” it’s packed with compelling songs, making it especially recommended for anyone looking to rediscover The Yellow Monkey’s music.