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[YMO] Revisiting the classic songs of YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA!
YMO, Yellow Magic Orchestra, laid the foundation for Japan’s techno and electro scene.
In this article, we introduce their classic tracks that helped establish technopop.
The three members were influential musicians leading the music scene even before forming YMO.
They loved trying new things, viewing live performances as a place to present finished works and studio recording as a place for new challenges, pouring the most love into recording.
Now, enjoy YMO’s songs that were ahead of their time and became a social phenomenon.
[YMO] Looking Back on Yellow Magic Orchestra’s Masterpieces! (1–10)
east windYellow Magic Orchestra
The sound image that gradually thickens from the intro captures your heart almost immediately.
The performance, which deftly manipulates rests and accents, is irresistible…! It’s a track from the B-side of the album “Yellow Magic Orchestra,” released in 1978 in two formats—LP record and cassette tape—and it remains one of the most popular pieces among YMO’s works.
TechnopolisYellow Magic Orchestra
One of their signature songs, alongside “Rydeen.” Although it was released as a single from the album Solid State Survivor, it features a different arrangement from the album version.
It’s a classic that offers a glimpse of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s catchy side—he said he wrote it simply thinking, “Let’s make a song that sells.”
RaideenYellow Magic Orchestra
One of their signature songs alongside “Technopolis.” It’s a track whose exhilarating, fast-paced sound feels great.
There’s also a surprising anecdote: Ryuichi Sakamoto transcribed a melody that Yukihiro Takahashi happened to hum.
Haruomi Hosono’s curveball-like bass line is really interesting, too.
Chinese womanYellow Magic Orchestra
A track from the B-side of the 1978 album “Yellow Magic Orchestra.” I feel the essence of techno in its sound, which is reminiscent of China yet carries a hint of Europe.
It’s one of their masterpieces, where the driving rhythm pairs perfectly with Yukihiro Takahashi’s tight vocals.
firecrackerYellow Magic Orchestra
The original song is a track included on Martin Denny’s album Quiet Village.
At first listen it may feel like it unfolds mechanically and matter‑of‑factly, but the subtle human fluctuations in the sound that you catch here and there make it an exceptionally pleasant piece.
Also, be sure to listen for Haruomi Hosono’s marimba.
I’m smitten with you.Yellow Magic Orchestra
This is a single released in 1983.
It’s YMO’s biggest hit and was also used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial.
The term “mune-kyun” (heart-throbbing) became popular thanks to this song’s success.
The music video—created with the concept of “cute middle-aged men”—is also highly recommended.
ABUSOLUTE EGO DANCEYellow Magic Orchestra
A track from YMO’s second album, “SOLID STATE SURVIVOR.” It experiments with a fusion of Okinawan and Indian music, creating an exotic atmosphere that’s absolutely captivating.
The rhythm bounces with exquisite timing and feels so good, doesn’t it? The mysterious melody really hits home, too!
Lotus LoveYellow Magic Orchestra
A track included on the album “Uwakina Bokura,” released on May 24, 1983.
The lyrics and composition were handled by vocalist Haruomi Hosono.
With its grand lyrical worldview and unforgettable melody that sticks with you after a single listen, it captured the hearts of many.
You could truly call it the ultimate love song.
massYellow Magic Orchestra
A track whose heavy, cold-blooded beat and the curious interplay of English and Russian linger in the ear.
Released in September of the same year as a single cut from the acclaimed album BGM, which came out in March 1981, it stands as a song that symbolizes the band’s decisive shift away from their earlier bright, pop image toward a darker, more experimental new wave direction.
Many fans at the time were likely bewildered by the sudden change, yet found themselves captivated by its avant-garde stance.
chance encounterYellow Magic Orchestra
Among the tracks on the 1983 album “Uwakina Bokura,” this piece stands out for its distinctly introspective beauty.
Ryuichi Sakamoto wrote and composed it, with Yukihiro Takahashi on vocals.
The shimmering, bell-like timbre of the synthesizer is striking, and its sound—radiant yet tinged with melancholy—resonates deeply.
The lyrics depict the protagonist, who can no longer sing of ideal love, expressing both determination and anxiety as they bid farewell to their former self and take a new step forward.
Although it isn’t a flashy single, it remains a perennial favorite among fans.