A Special Feature on ZARD’s Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs
ZARD achieved nationwide popularity in the 1990s with iconic songs like “Makenaide” and “Yureru Omoi.” Beyond the straightforward, resonant lyrics, the real charm lies in Izumi Sakai’s crystal-clear, transparent voice.
Although Sakai passed away in 2007 to much sorrow, ZARD’s wonderful music has transcended time and continues to be embraced.
NHK’s Close-up Gendai aired a special feature, describing their work as “songs that encouraged an era.” That phrase truly seems to encapsulate it all.
Here, we’ll highlight the timeless appeal of ZARD.
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- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
ZARD’s Timeless and Touching Masterpieces & Popular Songs Special (51–60)
Goodbyes still dwell in my heart even now.ZARD
Izumi Sakai of ZARD is from Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and the song was released in 1995 as their 16th single.
It was selected as the theme song for the film adaptation of the TV drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” The lyrics were written by Izumi Sakai herself, and the single reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
Even if you break tomorrowZARD
The song “Even If You Break Tomorrow,” included on the 9th album Wings of Time.
It’s a self-cover of a track originally provided to WANDS, and the intro creates impact as it progresses from a dreamy sound into a rock ensemble.
Because the vocals in the A and B sections are delivered in a markedly subdued tone, the chorus seems high in pitch; however, the overall key is low, so you may find it surprisingly easy to sing.
With its relaxed tempo that lets you sing calmly, it’s a number that conveys a sense of melancholy.
Spread your wingsZARD
The 44th single Wings to Fly, released as a double A-side with In the Dark of Love, was used as the theme song for the animated film Detective Conan: Full Score of Fear and is also known as a cover of a song originally provided to DEEN.
Its tempo is relaxed, making it easy to sing, but the melody features many subtle rises and falls, so it’s easy to go off pitch and requires care.
The overall vocal range isn’t very wide, so be sure to grasp the melodic movement thoroughly before singing it at karaoke.
You’re overflowing in me to the point it hurts.ZARD
This was ZARD’s 30th single, released in 1999, and it was used as the song for the Nescafé Moment commercial.
The track’s rap-like style is somewhat unusual for ZARD.
Its refreshing vocals make it a perfect commercial song for waking up in the morning.
Timeless ZARD Masterpieces and Fan Favorites (61–70)
My Baby Grand ~Wanting Warmth~ZARD
The campaign song for NTT Docomo’s 1997 winter commercials.
Released in December 1997 as ZARD’s 23rd single.
It peaked at No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold a total of 332,000 copies.
Although ZARD is strongly associated with summer, this is a winter song with a refreshing vibe.
Blues for YouZARD
“A Blues for You” is ZARD’s 42nd single, released in 2006 by B-Gram RECORDS.
It was included as the B-side to “Light My Heart on Fire.” The song opens with a blues harp and vocals processed with effects.
Vocalist Izumi Sakai composed the music for the first time in 11 years.
Swaying FeelingsZARD
Speaking of summer festivals, I always had the image that somewhere, a romance was beginning.
It wasn’t about people who met all the time; precisely because it was summer vacation, many chose that moment to confess their feelings.
Maybe because it was at night, it was easier to confess, so my image of summer festivals is tied to confessions.
This song brings back memories of those faint, gentle scenes.