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

a cheap watchYazawa Eikichi

Cheap Watch “New Recording Version” (Remastered 2022)

This song is also one of his early signature pieces and a classic.

At live shows it’s now a given: Yazawa pours his emotions into the performance, and it’s nothing short of superb.

With the rare accompaniment of a full symphony orchestra, that becomes the biggest highlight—so be sure to watch it at least once.

Time, stop.Yazawa Eikichi

Time, Stop (Remastered 2022)

It’s one of Eikichi Yazawa’s signature songs and an early masterpiece.

A quintessential, expertly crafted rock kayō and rock ballad, it showcases Yazawa’s classic, straight-down-the-line style in full force.

While it used to be a go-to anthem for biker gangs and delinquents back in the day, it’s now a timeless classic celebrated across eras and generations.

Old Love LetterYazawa Eikichi

Old Love Letter (Remastered 2022)

A track from the second original album “A Day,” released in 1976.

The lyrics were written by folk singer Kyozo Nishioka.

It’s a sultry, lingering ballad marked by a weeping guitar, with Eikichi Yazawa’s emotionally charged shouts being sublime.

He sings about a love letter sent to a former lover, overflowing with lingering affection.

In the era before smartphones and email, many listeners likely related to the lyrics that depict the bitter memories of youthful love.

YOKOYazawa Eikichi

YOKO (Remastered 2022)

A ballad included on the 1986 album Tokyo Night.

It’s a sweet, urban, and luxurious love song that praises a woman named “YOKO,” like Eikichi Yazawa’s version of “Wonderful Tonight.” It’s unclear whether the name refers to Yazawa’s daughter, Yoko Yazawa, but since she was born in 1985, there are rumors that the song celebrates the birth of his beloved daughter.

uptightYazawa Eikichi

Uptight (Remastered 2022)

Until now, I’d only focused on that distinctive voice, but I’ve come to realize anew how excellent Yazawa’s pronunciation is.

It’s impressive that he can still produce that kind of vocal style even with age, and his English pronunciation is easy to understand, with a palpable sense of unity with the audience that’s unique to live performances.

BELIEVE IN MEYazawa Eikichi

BELIEVE IN ME (Remastered 2022)

Considering his age, Eikichi Yazawa delivers astonishing live performances every time.

It’s especially evident in this song—he keeps singing so well that you forget it’s a live show.

He’s a rare musician who actually sounds better live than on the album.

In the shade of the palmYazawa Eikichi

In the Shade of Palm Trees (Remastered 2022)

Although Eikichi Yazawa calls it rock, his performances incorporate many soul and funk elements.

That may be a necessary choice to highlight Yazawa’s voice, but if you listen closely, you’ll notice how meticulous and excellent the playing is.

And the fact that no one can really come out sounding similar, even if they try to imitate him, is also remarkable.