Hit and popular songs by WANDS
We’d like to introduce songs by WANDS, the rock band that achieved million-seller hits with multiple tracks such as “Toki no Tobira” and “Sekai ga Owaru made wa…”.
WANDS is known for songs that epitomize the ’90s and was one of the flagship artists of their then-label, Being.
They shifted to the alternative sound that was mainstream overseas at the time with their 10th single “SAME SIDE,” but it wasn’t well received domestically back then, and sales did not grow.
However, in recent years “SAME SIDE” has been reevaluated, and vocalist Uesugi, who composed it, has reflected that “it has become the origin of my current music.”
It still sounds incredibly cool today, and the husky vocals are wonderful.
Please enjoy WANDS’s many classic tracks in this playlist.
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WANDS’ iconic and popular songs (41–50)
If only I had held you tighterWANDS
WANDS is strongly associated with the image of an idol-style rock band, but vocalist Show Uesugi’s true persona—complete with a nose piercing and chains—was aimed squarely at a hardcore heavy metal direction, so he was reportedly very perplexed by the J-pop path they took after debuting.
He later referred to his time in WANDS as his “idol era,” and after leaving the band, he grew a beard, shaved his head, got tattoos, and moved toward his original direction.
DON’T TRY SO HARDWANDS
A song by WANDS, a three-piece rock band that ranked among the top of the Being label artists who dominated the J-POP scene in the 1990s.
Featured on their fourth album, “PIECE OF MY SOUL,” it takes a rock ballad approach that stands apart from their earlier pop-leaning sound—very cool.
The depth of the ensemble born from its dark atmosphere makes it perfect for those who want a karaoke pick that stands out from the crowd.
It’s a challenging song to sing, but its unique worldview is the charm of this sophisticated, moody number.
Around the time the canaries sangWANDS
This is WANDS’ 18th single, released on June 9, 2021.
It’s a mid-tempo, easy-to-sing track with a vocal melody that isn’t too difficult, making it a great choice for confident singers to select at karaoke and aim for a high score.
As is typical of WANDS songs, not just this one, the chorus melody is very catchy and easy to remember—another strong selling point.
The last part of the chorus goes a bit higher, so if high notes aren’t your strength, be mindful of the key settings at karaoke.
Until the World EndsWANDS
This was WANDS’ eighth single, released in June 1994.
It served as the second ending theme for the TV Asahi anime “SLAM DUNK.” As a song from the 1990s—when major Japanese labels were highly conscious of the karaoke market—it’s very easy for anyone to sing and is a great pick for karaoke.
Focusing on the theme of this article, vibrato, the song features a medium tempo and an extremely memorable melody, with frequent, clearly audible vibrato that continuously varies pitch, especially in the pre-chorus and chorus sections.
It’s an ideal practice/reference piece for beginners learning vibrato.
Listen closely and study it.
boldWANDS
Like a night sky bathed in silvery moonlight, WANDS’s new song leaves a mysterious and brilliant impression.
Chosen as the theme song for the special edited edition of Detective Conan, it passionately sings of a strong resolve and devotion to protect the one you love.
Released digitally in January 2024, with a CD single slated for April, this rock number features striking guitar tones—perfect for energizing a school festival stage.
It’s a must-listen not only for WANDS fans but also for Detective Conan enthusiasts.