[Song of Osaka] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes
When you think of songs about Osaka, what tunes come to mind? While traditional local songs have become fewer, there are still many moving classics like Dreams Come True’s “Osaka LOVER” and Masaki Ueda’s “Kanashii Iro Yane.” From songs filled with the determination not to lose to Tokyo, to nostalgic hometown ballads, tracks that name-check local places, and even playful, humorous numbers—there’s a wide variety.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected “songs of Osaka” across a broad range of genres, from enka and kayōkyoku of the ’70s–’80s to recent J-pop.
We present masterpieces brimming with Osaka’s unique warmth and humanity, as well as passionate tales of love.
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[Osaka Songs] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes (31–40)
Dotonbori SentimentYoshimi Tendo
It’s a song that could be called a symbol of Osaka enka.
While Yoshimi Tendo’s version is the most famous, it feels like every Osaka enka singer has sung it.
For people who know this song, it’s only natural to read Dotonbori as “Tombori.” As someone from Osaka, I feel a powerful sense of hometown pride and conviction in it—the kind of strength to live on without giving in to injustice, a power you could call the Osaka spirit.
I think it resonates especially deeply with those who moved from Osaka to Tokyo.
Osaka ShigureHarumi Miyako
This is a song released by Harumi Miyako in 1980.
The lyricist, Osamu Yoshioka, won the Japan Lyricist Award for this song, and Miyako received the Best Vocal Performance at the 22nd Japan Record Awards, among other honors, making it a major hit.
It has become one of Osaka’s local songs, featuring several place names from neon-lit districts such as Kitashinchi.
Your OsakaMika Jinno
This is a song released by Mika Jinno in 2010, with lyrics written by Toyohisa Araki.
The song is notable for its lyrics sung in the Osaka dialect by a strong woman, which perfectly match Jinno’s cool, boyish vibe.
It’s a piece that conveys the depth of life and gives you energy.
Kiss me, hug me, OsakaRaymond Matsuya
If you’re looking for an Osaka song with a sophisticated, adult mood, this is a must-listen.
“Kiss shite Hug shite Osaka” is a 2016 track by Raymond Matsuya, a singer-songwriter from Ehime Prefecture who debuted at age 59.
Set against Midosuji and Abeno Harukas, it portrays a poignant yet passionate love story for grown-ups.
Raymond Matsuya’s sexy, cool vocals and the Group Sounds-style arrangement really shine.
Osaka is also known for its neon lights, and that atmosphere adds to its mature allure.
Funky VibrationFlower Companyz
This is a song created through a collaboration project with FM802.
It highlights famous spots and local foods in Osaka, almost like speaking on behalf of visiting tourists.
The guitar tone has a crazy, rich thickness—truly the work of a veteran, rock-solid and impressive.
[Osaka Songs] A selection of passionate, warm-hearted Osaka tunes (41–50)
Ah, Osaka dreamin’ nightHypnosis Microphone (Doppo no Itare Honpo)
It’s a song that also serves as a self-introduction for Dotsuitare Honpo, a unit from the character rap project Hypnosis Mic.
With lyrics by R-Shitei and composition by DJ Matsunaga, you could say it’s a track provided by Creepy Nuts.
There’s a curious feeling, as if a song with a strong Creepy Nuts flavor is being performed by someone else.
As the anthem of the Osaka Division’s representative team, it’s a unique track packed with classic images of Osaka that everyone imagines and plenty of words that strongly evoke Osaka-ness.
Osaka Love StoryTakajin Yashiki
Speaking of songs from Osaka, many people will probably think of Takajin Yashiki, with “Yappa Suki Yanen” at the forefront.
He wasn’t just about music—he was practically the face of Osaka as a host and TV personality as well.
His 1989 release “Osaka Koi Monogatari” is sung from a woman’s perspective, expressing her feelings for the one she loves most.
The chorus uses expressions unique to Osaka, which helps you sink deeper into its world.
Along with Takajin’s emotionally rich vocals, it’s a dazzling ballad filled with the preciousness of making dreams come true and with love.