Yankee Songs: A Collection of Tracks about Delinquents, Rebels, and Mischief
When you think of “yankees” and “tsuppari” (delinquent youth), a lot of images come to mind—motorbikes, fights, tokkofuku (special long jackets), and more.
From the past to the present, it’s a theme that often appears in dramas, movies, and manga, packed with cool elements like friendship, manly spirit, and clumsy kindness.
In this article, we’ll be introducing plenty of songs themed around these yankees and tsuppari! We’ll be featuring not only Showa-era tracks but also more recent releases.
Now, let’s dive in and start listening!
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Yankee Songs: A Collection of Punk/Delinquent/Mischievous Tracks (71–80)
Song of the Delinquent Big BrotherKamon Tatsuo
This is the song said to have popularized the word “yankii” at a time when “tsuppari” was still the dominant term.
Its lyrics brilliantly and realistically depict the lives of yankii youths, and there’s a sequel titled “Zetsumetsu: Yankii no Niichan no Uta” (Extinction: Song of the Yankii Big Brother).
Manga HANKHO-KI!SHINSUKE-BAND
The debut single of the SHINSUKE-BAND led by Shinsuke Shimada, who rose to fame with tough-guy-style manzai comedy.
Written by Shimada himself, the lyrics depict everyday life tinged with loneliness beneath a brash exterior, connecting thematically to the film Gaki Teikoku.
The lineup also included Mr.
Okure and Shoji Murakami.
You look sad.asuka gumi
While many films and dramas featuring delinquents are born from popular manga, this unit, Asuka-gumi, follows that classic pattern as well.
In this song, they give voice to bittersweet maidenly feelings budding deep in the heart, each member expressing it through her own distinct character.
Midnight Drivin’Cherībōizu
Cherry Boys, said to be a legendary rock ’n’ roll band on par with Carol and Cools.
They debuted in 1976 as a highly skilled band, but while Carol’s breakup and other events drew attention, Cherry Boys—despite having a devoted fan base—didn’t appear much in the mainstream spotlight.
Their sound, close to American rock ’n’ roll, is truly appealing.
In 2008, CHERRY BOYS GREAT was formed at the invitation of Yokohama Ginbae’s TAKU, but vocalist TOMMY-KING passed away in 2017.
Badass☆Yankee RoadBOYSANDMEN
This is a track whose appeal lies in its straightforward lyrics and manly, gutsy sound.
It’s a song by BOYS AND MEN, released in December 2018.
The lyrics evoke the vibe of Showa-era yankee culture, and the energetic vocals leave a strong impression.
It sings about the courage to face hardships and the importance of self-realization, and just listening to it will fill you with energy.
It’s a number that could be called the group’s origin point, as they’re based in Nagoya—definitely check it out! It might even be fun to throw your arms around your friends’ shoulders and sing along.
whoosh whooshgedō
The rock band Gedō’s second single.
They were a band popular with biker gangs thanks to performances featuring kimono as stage costumes, torii gate stage sets, and leading the audience in banzai cheers.
They disbanded in 1976, but later reunited and continued activity with various lineup changes.
The 3-3-7 clapping rhythm is unforgettable once you hear it.
Yankee SpiritHirano Sho, Jinguji Yuta (King & Prince)
It’s a hot, slightly comical track inspired by Showa-era delinquent culture.
Included on King & Prince’s album “Re:Sense,” released in July 2021, it features Sho Hirano and Yuta Jinguji belting out straightforward feelings of love and steadfast friendship.
Despite being a Reiwa-era release, it’s packed with the playful wordplay characteristic of old-school tough guys, which will make you chuckle.
An energetic song for everyone who holds honest feelings toward love and friendship—definitely worth a listen.
In conclusion
We introduced many yankee and tsuppari songs.
From classic tracks that everyone thinks of to pieces released recently, there were all kinds of songs! Through music, please take a moment to reflect on Japan’s unique yankee culture!