Popular Songs by Eikichi Yazawa: A Curated Selection of Masterpieces from the Boss of Japan’s Rock Scene!

Yazawa Eikichi

[Collab] Mr. Shachihoko’s impersonation class!!

Even past 70, Mr.

Yazawa is still going strong.

I think this is an impression anyone can try—young people, and of course those who are older as well.

First, the first-person: Yazawa refers to himself by his surname, saying “Yazawa wa,” and that’s a must! It’s a perfect hook to grab the audience’s attention.

If you have long hair, go for a pompadour, and a red Yazawa muffler towel would really help too.

His singing also has a distinct style: if you extend the final vowel at the end of phrases, it really captures the vibe.

For example, instead of “yoru ni,” sing it like “yoru nii~.” Let’s recreate the excitement of a live show with popular songs everyone knows!

Ballad, ForeverYazawa Eikichi

Ballad Forever (Remastered 2022)

This song is also one of his signature tracks and a big hit at live shows.

It’s astonishing that Yazawa, who has sung countless love ballads, chose to title it “Ballad, Forever.” And of course, the song itself is a quintessential Yazawa ballad.

This is a place today’s rock bands could never reach.

Wet with lightYazawa Eikichi

Wet in the Light (Remastered 2022)

This track was included on the original album “YOKOHAMA Nijussai Mae,” released in 1985.

It’s a piece from the period when Eikichi Yazawa was strongly oriented toward Western music, featuring a bright, sophisticated sound with extensive use of synthesizers, contrasted by a powerful, classic rock melody that’s electrifying.

The music was composed by Eikichi Yazawa, with lyrics by Tetsuya Chiaki, a lyricist who produced numerous hits such as “Tonde Istanbul” and also worked on many of Yazawa’s songs.

What a handful.Yazawa Eikichi

You're a handful (Remastered 2022)

This is the opening track on side A of the third album “Open the Door,” released in 1977.

It features classic, vintage sound production reminiscent of America’s gritty rhythm and blues, soul, and rock ’n’ roll.

With thick, overdriven guitar tones, a rolling piano, and a lively horn section, it’s an irresistibly groovy number.

Eikichi Yazawa’s straightforward, powerful vocals are absolutely cool.

Subway ExpressYazawa Eikichi

Subway Express (Remastered 2022)

This is a track included on his solo debut album “I LOVE YOU, OK,” released in 1975.

The music was composed by Eikichi Yazawa, with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, one of Japan’s leading lyricists and a former member of Happy End.

It’s a classic mid-tempo rock number, a masterpiece that brims with the masculine intensity, youthful energy, and hunger of a young Eikichi Yazawa.

Notably, it is sprinkled with names that evoke the Anglo-American world, such as Eleanor Rigby from a Beatles song, James Bond of 007, and the prematurely deceased actor James Dean.

Oh, my heart’s flowerYazawa Eikichi

Kokorobana (Tokimeki) yo (Remastered 2022)

It’s a special YAZAWA-style rock ballad.

There are really a lot of songs in this vein, but it’s still wonderful that he keeps singing them.

He must understand what he does best and what his fans want.

It’s a love song about romance for adults.

Last sceneYazawa Eikichi

Last Scene (Remastered 2022)

Eikichi Yazawa is perfectly suited to performing in large venues.

The band keeps a low profile, staying in supporting roles to highlight Yazawa’s voice, and that’s the case in live shows as well.

However, the addition of female chorus vocals and horns—making things more lively—is something unique to the live experience.