A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances
A special feature on Japanese folk songs.
Folk music originally began as arrangements of traditional songs and spread in the United States.
From around the 1960s, it was also embraced in Japan, and, reflecting the times, songs with strong anti-war and anti-government messages were delivered.
Entering the 1970s, it became especially popular with more accessible, mainstream themes and reached a peak of commercial success.
Although Japanese folk has evolved to incorporate various elements, it retains an acoustic allure and a wistful mood, with lyrics that stand out and resonate.
By all means, take your time and immerse yourself in Japanese folk music!
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Timeless Classics of Japanese Folk Songs Passed Down Through Live Solo Performances (71–80)
The Song of the Red DragonflyWell, you know...
It was released in 1973 as Anonenone’s major-label debut single.
It sold over 350,000 copies, becoming their biggest hit.
The song also drew attention when Tatsuwo Kamon, who is close to Anonenone, performed an arranged version of it.
Strawberry Statement Once AgainHirofumi Bamba
Released in 1975 (Showa 50), this song captures the memories of youth of lovers as one era comes to an end and they grow into adulthood.
“Strawberry Statement” is the title of a film centered on the student protest movement, and the song’s concept—mirroring that world with their own—is impressive; as it turns out, the lyricist and composer was Yuming (then Yumi Arai).
The song also reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
A café in a student districtGaro
Released in 1972 (Showa 47).
It felt a bit different from the usual image of folk music, largely because of their fashion sense.
Male folk singers generally didn’t pay much attention to clothing, but I think Garo put considerable care into their outfits and style.
When you listen to these lyrics, it feels like something anyone could relate to: it’s a song about how everything changes with the times and how you can’t turn back time—not even the café you used to frequent with the woman you loved.
The arrangement is wonderful, and it became a huge hit.
Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Tokiko Kato
Released in 1960, this song is famous as a local tune set in Shiretoko.
Written and composed by the well-known actor Hisaya Morishige while he was staying in Shiretoko, it has long been covered by other artists and cherished by many.
contrailYumi Arai
This song, included on Yumi Arai’s 1973 album, is also famous as the theme song for a certain film and has long been beloved.
Despite its refreshing melody, it was composed around the theme of death.
Yumi Arai later continued her career as Yumi Matsutoya, releasing numerous major hits.
I am crying.Lily
Released in 1974, Lily had lost both her father and mother when she was young, and to make a living she did solo acoustic performances at a snack bar.
The nickname “Lily” was given to her at that time, and she said the choice to write the “i” in katakana was for the vibe.
She apparently wrote this song intending for Naoko Ken to sing it, but her agency told her they wanted her to sing it herself, so she reluctantly did.
Her husky voice, together with the selfishness of Showa-era men and the sorrow of a woman clinging to them, matched perfectly and the song became a huge hit.
O skyToi et Moi
This song, released in 1970 by the duo Towa Teardrop Moi—who also sang the theme for the 1972 Sapporo Olympics—was created from a public call for submissions by viewers.
With its refreshing melody and innocent lyrics, it became a hit.
The name “Towa Teardrop Moi” comes from French and means “you and me.”