Summary of Western Songs That Inspired the JoJo Series

RoundaboutYES

YesSongs #7: YES – Roundabout

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 2 Ending — JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure ED2

This piece is known as a classic of progressive rock.

It opened the album Fragile, released in November 1971.

With its dramatic development and grand sound, it was also used as the ending theme for the anime JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

The lyrics, which evoke a winding journey along a roundabout, stir a sense of adventure.

It’s also a perfect gateway to discovering YES’s music.

Its complex rhythms and unique world-building resonate with both prog fans and JoJo fans.

When it was released as a single in November 1972, it reached No.

13 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 and even won a BMI Award.

It’s a captivating track that’s perfect for a drive!

Both Sides NowJoni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell – Both Sides Now (2021 Remaster) [Official Audio]

The names of the racers in Part 7 of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, “Steel Ball Run,” are a treasure trove of music references, but in fact there are hidden references in the stage names as well.

Stage 8, “Both Sides Now,” is said to be based on the timeless classic Both Sides Now, written and composed by the great Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell—an impressively subtle citation.

More people might recognize it by its Japanese title, “Seishun no Hikari to Kage” (Light and Shadow of Youth).

Incidentally, the first person to sing the song was Judy Collins, and it was included on her 1967 album Wildflowers.

Walk Like An EgyptianThe Bangles

The Bangles – Walk Like an Egyptian (Official Video)

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 3 Ending

It’s a captivating pop tune that pays homage to Egyptian culture while reflecting the changing times.

This song by The Bangles was released as a single from their 1986 album “Different Light.” It became a major hit, topping the charts in the United States and many other countries.

With a message that celebrates cross-cultural exchange and encourages freedom from social norms, it overflows with exotic allure.

It was also featured as the ending theme for the anime “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders,” drawing renewed attention.

It’s a track that perfectly enhances the adventurous elements of the anime set in Egypt.

We RockDio

Dio – We Rock (Official Music Video)

Dio Brando is such a popular character that you could even call him the hidden protagonist of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

For those unfamiliar with the original reference, many people think of DIO as the JoJo character.

In fact, Dio’s namesake is the band DIO, led by the charismatic hard rock vocalist Ronnie James Dio.

Ronnie, who performed with legendary bands like Rainbow and Black Sabbath, is also the person who popularized the “devil horns” hand sign known to every heavy metal fan.

Although Ronnie has passed away, his incredible vocals—said to never go off pitch even live—are still celebrated today.

So if you like the character Dio, you should definitely listen to Ronnie’s singing.

Rock the CasbahThe Clash

The Clash – Rock the Casbah (Official Video)

Many references to Western music in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure include punk bands, and a representative example is the Stand name “Clash” used by Squalo in Part 5, Golden Wind.

It’s said to be based on The Clash, one of the defining British punk bands of the 1970s, known for their aggressive performances, their genre-blending music that incorporated reggae and dub, and their socially conscious stance.

As mentioned, not only their early punkish sound but also their later albums, which show musical evolution, are all compelling—so I recommend giving them a listen, even if you’re not a dedicated punk fan.

Georgy PorgyTOTO

Toto – Georgy Porgy (Official Video)

The names of the flag-bearers participating in the race in Part 7 of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Steel Ball Run, are truly a treasure trove of Western music references.

This time, I’ll introduce the origin of “Georgy Porgy.” There’s a song called “Georgy Porgy” on the debut album “Toto” (released in 1978) by the American band TOTO, which was formed mainly by studio musicians and achieved explosive success from the late ’70s through the ’80s.

It’s an urbane, stylish track featuring guitarist Steve Lukather on lead vocals, and a highlight is the backing vocals by Cheryl Lynn, known for songs like “Got To Be Real.” It’s a true classic!

Under The BridgeRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Under The Bridge [Official Music Video]

When it comes to the most well-known overseas rock bands in Japan, the Red Hot Chili Peppers—aka “Red Chili” in Japan—would likely be at the top of the list.

While they gained popularity with their eclectic mix of funk, rock, and hip-hop and their wild performances, they gradually revealed a more melodious American rock side as well, achieving global success.

In Japan, they’re big enough to headline the Tokyo Dome, so many people at least know their name.

In fact, the stand used by Akira Otoishi, the guitarist-aspiring rocker who appears in Part 4 of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Diamond Is Unbreakable, is named “Red Hot Chili Pepper!”