Popular Songs by Eikichi Yazawa: A Curated Selection of Masterpieces from the Boss of Japan’s Rock Scene!
Eikichi Yazawa, hailed as the “Boss” and a “charismatic figure” of the Japanese rock scene, continues to be supported by people of all generations.
From soul-stirring rock to heart-wrenching ballads, the timeless masterpieces he has brought into the world are deeply etched in listeners’ hearts.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected some of his most popular songs.
Immerse yourself in the world of “Eichi,” whose moving lyrics and distinctive vocal style never fail to captivate.
Eikichi Yazawa’s Popular Songs: A Curated Selection of Gem-Like Masterpieces by the Boss of Japan’s Rock Scene (1–10)
I love you, OKYazawa Eikichi
Among Eikichi Yazawa’s songs, “I Love You, OK” is especially popular.
It was his landmark first solo single after disbanding the band Carol, and it continues to be loved not only by fans but by a wide audience.
It’s a track I especially hope younger generations will listen to.
SomedayYazawa Eikichi
This is the 37th single, released in 1994.
It was used as the ending theme for the TV drama “Ari yo Saraba,” starring Eikichi Yazawa.
It’s a dramatic ballad featuring a luxurious sound highlighted by saxophone, piano, and strings.
In the first episode of the drama, there’s a legendary scene where Eikichi Yazawa casually performs the song on piano—many of you probably remember it!
ebb tideYazawa Eikichi
The third single, released in 1976.
Although it appears on best-of and live albums, it was not included on any original studio album.
This song, a dramatic portrayal of heartbreak, is a poignant love ballad whose repeated arpeggios evoke the nuance of rippling waves.
The sound design brilliantly conjures up the image of an ebb tide along the seashore at dusk.
YOUYazawa Eikichi
This is a romantic rock number by Eikichi Yazawa, distinguished by a buoyant shuffle beat.
Even knowing he might get hurt, he can’t help but see her—he sings this love that transcends reason straight from the heart, with his signature sexy, emotionally rich voice.
The protagonist’s sweet yet heartrending feelings are enough to make your chest tighten.
Though the song had already been performed at his 1989 Tokyo Dome concert, it became widely known after being included on the best-of album “E.Y 80’S,” released in October 1997.
On sleepless nights when your feelings for someone special are overflowing, listening to this track just might give those emotions a powerful sense of affirmation.
Fill it in blackYazawa Eikichi
The fourth solo single, released in 1977.
It’s a popular number characterized by a hard, guitar-driven sound.
Many fans may associate Eikichi Yazawa—who never settles and keeps striving higher—with the opening lyrics.
The composition was done by Yazawa himself, with lyrics by Kyozo Nishioka.
ROCKIN’ MY HEARTYazawa Eikichi
A cool, mellow slice of West Coast rock that blends into the flowing scenery of the nighttime highway.
Despite its sophisticated sound, it sings of the loneliness and longing of a city dweller thinking of a lover far away.
You can picture the glittering city lights only heightening the sense of solitude.
Released in October 1982 as the 13th single, it was featured in a commercial for a Pioneer stereo system and became widely known.
It was also released in the United States, earning high praise from Billboard magazine—a song that symbolizes Eikichi Yazawa’s challenge to take on the world.
Farewell, Ari.Yazawa Eikichi
This rock number features the rich, seasoned vocals of Eikichi Yazawa that resonate deeply.
The lyrics are by Yasushi Akimoto, and the composition is by Yazawa himself.
It portrays the feelings of people who struggle within the constraints of society and the suffocating routines of daily life, striving to live true to themselves.
Released in April 1994 as his 36th single, the song was produced as the theme for the drama “Ari yo Saraba,” in which Yazawa starred.
In this drama, Yazawa’s performance as an actor was highly acclaimed, and there is even an anecdote that he received a Best New Actor award.
It’s a song that powerfully pushes the back of anyone standing at a crossroads in life, ready to take their next step.
MARIAYazawa Eikichi
A straightforward love song by Eikichi Yazawa, whose powerful yet gentle vocals resonate in the heart.
Released as a single in May 1996, it also became well known as the song for Suntory BOSS commercials.
In July of the same year, an acclaimed album bearing this song’s title, “MARIA,” was released.
This piece sings of a timeless bond of fate to a cherished person smiling in a faded photograph.
It is said to reflect his feelings for his real-life partner, and its earnest expression of love is deeply moving.
Its universal message of love reminds us to feel grateful for those we hold dear.
Awesome Rock You!Yazawa Eikichi
The moment the intro guitar riff rings out, it blows away the dullness of everyday life—an exhilarating rock number.
This track opens the album “TWIST,” released in June 2010, and was also used in a commercial for Lotte’s “Xylitol Gum.” The protagonist taunts an unmotivated opponent and confidently declares they’ll show their very best.
That straightforward, powerful message stirs up excitement as if your soul were being shaken directly at a live show.
When you feel stuck, listening to this song might make you feel like, “I’ve still got more in me,” giving you a push forward.
Rainy WayYazawa Eikichi
A rock ballad released in October 1980, distinguished by its bluesy guitar tone.
Set on a rain-soaked highway, it lyrically portrays the pain of heartbreak.
The protagonist’s pent-up emotions overlap with the scene of the relentless, cold rain, tightening the listener’s chest.
Included on the classic solo compilation THE ORIGINAL EIKICHI YAZAWA SINGLE COLLECTION 1980‑1990 and performed at the 1994 Nippon Budokan concert, this song has continued to be loved across generations.
Its wistful melody gently accompanies a sentimental mood.