[Yumi Matsutoya’s Masterpieces] A Collection of Heart-Touching Gems: Yuming’s Finest Hits

Darkening RoomArai Yumi

The Paled Room / Kageriyuku Heya (2022 Ｍix)

A masterpiece by Yumi Arai that poignantly portrays lovers facing a breakup, depicted through the shifting scene of a room from dusk to nightfall.

The solemn arrangement featuring a pipe organ and the gospel-style chorus by an all-star lineup—including Hi-Fi Set and Tatsuro Yamashita—further accentuate the pain of parting.

Released in March 1976, the song reached No.

10 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.

43 on the year-end chart.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who has experienced the farewell of a loved one.

Message of RougeMatsutōya Yumi

Rouge's Message – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya) (Full)

It’s the fifth single, released in 1975.

Though it’s actually a song about infidelity, combined with Yuming’s vocals over a lively rhythm, it ends up being a fun track that makes you smile.

It’s also well known as the opening theme for the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

A Midsummer Night’s DreamMatsutōya Yumi

A Midsummer Night's Dream – Yumi Matsutoya (Full)

Released on July 26, 1993, this was Yumi Matsutoya’s 24th single.

It was also loved as the theme song for the drama “Dare ni mo Ienai” (“I Can’t Tell Anyone”).

With its uniquely atmospheric sound, passionate vocals and lyrics, it’s a track with a powerful impact! A fervent love song that portrays two people blazing up at the end.

contrailArai Yumi

Contrail (Vapour Trail) – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya)

There are several songs by Yumi Matsutoya that relate to the sky, but this one in particular stands out for its beautiful scenic imagery.

An unfading classic, it is etched in people’s memories as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film The Wind Rises.

The Fourteenth MoonNEW!Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – The 14th Moon (All about POP CLASSICO)

This is a song that captures the thrill and exhilaration that shine the brightest precisely because it’s just one step before the full moon.

It’s a track by Yumi Matsutoya, known for numerous hits, included as the title song on her album “The 14th Moon,” released in November 1976.

Its appeal lies in a full-throttle band sound and exhilarating, fast-paced arrangement, making it a beloved staple for energizing the final stretch of concerts.

In 1991, its narrative-rich world was also acclaimed when it was dramatized within the TBS series “Rouge no Dengon.” It’s also known for covers by rock bands like Spitz.

It’s perfect for nights when you want to fill your heart with anticipation for tomorrow or as a driving soundtrack.

The sensibility of cherishing beauty just before completion is sure to lift the listener’s spirits.

I want to go back to that dayMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – I Want to Return to That Day (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

A song released under the name Yumi Arai in 1975, one to listen to while savoring memories of the past that can never be returned to.

By singing head-on, without hesitation, about memories that seem to shine precisely because they’re irreversible, it somehow makes the present feel all the more hollow.

As you listen, a tangle of different emotions may well arise.

I want to protect youMatsutōya Yumi

I Want to Protect You – Yumi Matsutoya (Full)

Released in 1981, this is Yumi Matsutoya’s 17th single.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants encouragement, to lift their spirits, or to feel energized.

As the title “Mamotte Agetai” (“I Want to Protect You”) suggests, listening to it brings a mysterious sense of being warmly cheered on.