Get ready for a nonstop mix of the grooviest City Pop Boogie! Tonight, let’s ​turn up the finest urban pop from ‘70s and ‘80s Japan for the ultimate ​"Boogie Night"!

From boogie rock to urban soul boogie, these groovy sounds will ​take you on a journey to a Tokyo Boogie Night!

This mix features a wide range of tracks, from City Pop classics ​to rare gems you won’t find on YouTube or Spotify.

Sit back, enjoy, and groove till the very end!

Released in 1979 by Polydor Records, Casablanca Dandy is ​the 26th single by Kenji Sawada and one of his most iconic ​songs. Inspired by the world of the film Casablanca, the ​track exudes a mature charm and a sense of melancholy, ​both in its lyrics and melody.

The reference to "Bogie" in the lyrics alludes to Humphrey ​Bogart, the leading actor of Casablanca. Written by Yū Aku ​and composed by Kazuo Ōno, the song features a ​sophisticated, jazzy arrangement that enhances its stylish ​appeal. The funky guitar riff in the intro is likely the work of ​Takayuki Inoue.

With its infectious groove and dandy aesthetic, Casablanca ​Dandy is a brilliant example of boogie rock at its finest.

Singer-songwriter Shigeru Izumiya, who is now active as ​both an actor and a TV personality, released his fourth ​single in 1974.

A legendary track among Japanese DJs, Nemurenai Yoru ​("Nemurenai Yoru") kicks off with a hard-hitting, razor-sharp ​drum break—considered a classic breakbeat in the scene. ​This rugged groove, full of raw energy and attitude, ​cements its status as one of the defining gems of Japan’s ​rare groove scene. An absolute must-hear!

Haruko Kuwana’s third solo album, released under the ​name Baker’s Shop with Haruko, is titled HOT LINE.*

Sonically, the album leans heavily into the AOR sound, ​which was at its peak during that era. Since Baker’s Shop ​was often called the "Naniwa version of Stuff," one might ​expect a more soulful or bluesy approach. However, ​surprisingly, the album embraces a refined, West Coast-​style urban pop-rock sound.

For this mix, we're featuring Don't Look Back, a track that ​nods to Boz Scaggs’ JoJo!

A must-have record for any DJ.

I'd like to introduce today "Yume ni Reserve" from ​MASAHITO ARAI, the 1987 solo debut album by Masahito ​Arai. While Arai is known for his achievements as a vocalist​—most notably with Brand-New Omega Tribe—he has also ​received high praise for his songwriting, writing for various ​works, including the anime Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ and ​other theme songs.

Arai composed all the tracks on the album, with ​arrangements by Noritaka Tsugei, the core member of ​Sentimental City Romance. String arrangements were ​provided by Toshihiro Nakanishi, and Sentimental City ​Romance served as the backing band. Additionally, Kazuhito ​Murata, Akihiko Noguchi (formerly of Sugar Babe and ​Sentimental City Romance), and others lent their voices as ​backing vocalists, with percussionist Mac Shimizu also ​joining in.

The subtle yet sophisticated arrangements and ​performances by Sentimental City Romance, combined with ​Arai’s steady, high-tone vocals, create a wonderfully ​smooth and urban atmosphere. Susumu Kazuhara’s ​flugelhorn adds the perfect finishing touch.

"Telephone Number" is a track from Junko Ohashi's 1981 ​album Tea For Tears. With the resurgence of the city pop ​scene, the song gained renewed appreciation, eventually ​leading to its vinyl reissue in 2021.

With lyrics by Noriko Miura and music composed by Ken ​Sato, this track is a quintessential example of Japanese ​mellow soul—rediscovered both in Japan and ​internationally during the city pop revival.

Ohashi’s soaring yet effortlessly smooth vocals embody the ​essence of an era, cementing her place as one of the era’s ​top vocalists. The lyrics, which revolve around exchanging ​phone numbers, evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone ​time.

The groove carries a subtle nod to Ray Parker Jr.'s "A ​Woman Needs Love," enhancing the track’s irresistibly ​smooth vibe—a must-have vinyl for DJs!

"City Nights" is a boogie-infused shuffle groove arranged by ​Masaki Matsubara, included on Toshiki Kadomatsu’s 1981 ​debut album, SEA BREEZE.

For various reasons, the original album version of this song ​is hard to come by on YouTube or streaming platforms.

If you haven't delved into Kadomatsu’s early work, this is ​definitely a must-listen!

"Ame" is a single from Kei Ishiguro, a jazz singer from ​Kanagawa who made her debut in 1977, from her 1982 ​album Yokohama Ragtime. With a great soulful feel, this ​mellow stepper/dancer groove has an effortless sway. Every ​time I listen, the intro instantly grabs me!

Yoshino Fujimal is the debut solo album by Fujimaru ​Yoshino, created with the members of AB's. The album ​features future members of AB's, including Makoto ​Matsushita, Naoki Watanabe, and Kakuo Okamoto, with ​backing vocals by Haruko Kuwana and EPO. The track I'd ​like to introduce today is "Girl's In Love With Me". With its ​smooth soft rock groove, this song will naturally make your ​body sway.

Today, I want to introduce "Ojosan Oteyawarakani" from ​Kaze no Graffiti (1980), an album by Kiyohiko Ozaki, ​produced by Yuji Ohno.This track is a masterpiece of ​Kiyohiko Ozaki’s signature Philly Soul—elegant and ​luxurious, blending sweetness with a thrilling edge.Among ​his many great songs, this one stands out for its exceptional ​quality and is highly regarded by true connoisseurs!

"TAKE A CHANCE," the second album by Shoichiro Hizume, ​released in 1989, features a refreshing and romantic AOR-​infused pop sound—quite a contrast to its tough-looking ​cover.

Hizume is also known for his work as a support bassist for ​TM NETWORK and Tetsuro Oda.

Today, I’ve selected "Room No.909," the most AOR-flavored ​track from this album.

Danny Ishio was born to a Japanese-American father and a ​Japanese mother.In the late '60s, he rose to fame as the ​vocalist of Four Saints, a folk group that took Japan by ​storm. Even after the group's breakup in 1973, he continued ​his career as a musician.Today, I want to introduce "Onna ni ​Jukushite Kaettekina," the B-side of the EP Nonstop ​Freeway, which was set to be released in 1986 under his ​solo name, Yutaka Ishio.I’ve only ever seen promotional ​copies in record stores, so I’m not sure if it was ever ​officially released.The track was composed by Kingo ​Hamada, a close musical companion of Ishio. Naturally, the ​sound is classic Kingo Hamada-style AOR—incredibly ​groovy and full of that signature vibe.A true hidden City Pop ​gem!

Norio Sakai was born in Hokkaido. Based in Sapporo, he ​formed the band The Fairy with Yoshitaka Mikuni and ​others, serving as the bassist and vocalist.

Later, through an introduction from someone affiliated with ​Mariah’s management, he was invited by keyboardist ​Masanori Sasaji to move to Tokyo.

In 1983, before making his official debut, he joined Junichi ​Inagaki’s support band, TOPICS, as a bassist and backing ​vocalist, actively participating in concert tours and recording ​sessions.

That same year, he debuted with Nasca, a rock band ​featuring Masanori Sasaji (Key.), Takayuki Hijikata (G.), ​Norio Sakai (Vo. & B.), and Ryuben Tsujino (Ds.), releasing ​the album Words of Love under CBS/Sony. The band ​released three albums before ceasing activities in 1987.

Alongside his work with Nasca, Sakai continued to compose ​music and perform as a session musician.

In 1985, he released his solo debut album, Sail Away.

Today, I want to introduce "Tokimeita Omoi Sae" from that ​album—a boogie number that kicks off with an electrifying ​electronic break!

In 1979, singer-songwriter Minoru Koyama won the Yamaha ​Popular Song Contest (often referred to as "Popcon") and ​released his debut album HARD TO BE A MAN in 1980.The ​album was backed by the same team that supported Satoshi ​Terauchi’s million-selling Reflections in 1981, including ​producer Akira Inoue and the band Parachute, delivering a ​groundbreaking blend of urban rock and AOR ​sounds.Today, I’d like to introduce "Zanzō – After Images", a ​soulful cocktail lounge funk track that exudes a sense of ​melancholy. It’s become a sought-after gem in the world of ​Japanese AOR and City Pop, with the album now fetching ​high prices on the second-hand market.

"Diamond Lights" is a track from Miho Nakayama’s 8th ​studio album, angel hearts, released in 1988. The song was ​composed by Hiroshi Narumi, a key figure in the CITYPOP ​movement.With its mellow yet sophisticated urban pop ​sound, heavily influenced by AOR and contemporary R&B, ​"Diamond Lights" is a quintessential CITYPOP masterpiece, ​showcasing Narumi’s signature style.

The debut album BEST FRIEND (1982) by the beautiful ​singer Misa Kojima, known for her 1991 hit "Gypsy," is a ​classic City Pop masterpiece. The entire album features ​lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Tetsuji Hayashi, ​both highly regarded figures in the genre. The ​arrangements and performances were provided by some of ​the top musicians who defined 1980s pop, including Masaki ​Matsubara (guitar), Shigeru Suzuki (guitar), Eiji Shimamura ​(drums), Michio Nagaoka (bass), Hiroshi Shinkawa ​(keyboards), and Ryoichi Kuniyoshi (keyboards).Today, I’d ​like to introduce "BEST FRIEND" from this album, an ​exquisite example of urban mellow City Pop.

A powerhouse singer who provided backing vocals for ​artists like Toshiki Kadomatsu and Anri, Eri Kojima was a ​true talent who sadly passed away in February 2015. As a ​graduate of Yamaha’s Popcon competition, her own ​compositions on both the A-side and B-side of her records ​are undeniably captivating. However, it’s the B-side track ​“Lonely Feelin’”, arranged by the legendary Masaaki ​Omura, that truly stands out—an elevated mellow groove ​that's hard to describe. Her melancholic yet sultry vocals ​blend seamlessly with lush strings, layered harmonies, and ​an irresistibly sexy sax solo, evoking a luxurious portrait of ​a city woman’s love affair. For any DJ, this is a vinyl you ​grab on sight—no questions asked!

It’s well-known that there were discussions about Char ​joining GODIEGO, but listening to his debut album "CHAR", ​it’s clear that he’s better suited for leading a band. At the ​time, he was just 21 years old, which is impressive given ​that he had already been active as a session musician since ​middle school. He must have already been a well-known ​figure in the scene by the time of his debut. The album ​features a lineup that includes his longtime collaborator ​from his SMOKY MEDICINE days, Jun Sato (Key), along ​with members he personally recruited in Los Angeles: Jerry ​Margosian (Key), George Mastich (B), and Robert Brill (Ds). ​Backed by these four, Char is able to fully express the kind ​of music he wanted to make. From this album, we’re ​showcasing the fusion-style funk track "Kagerou". By the ​way, the lyrics for this song were written by Shigeru Amano ​of NSP.

Released in 1978, Akira Fuse's album "Konya wa Kidotte ​Mitaraii" is an excellent release, with most of the tracks ​crafted by the CITY POP maestro Tetsuji Hayashi.

The track we're highlighting today is "Natsu no Owari no ​Memory", for which Akira Fuse wrote the lyrics, while ​Tetsuji Hayashi handled the composition and arrangement. ​The song follows Hayashi's signature AOR-style disco kayō ​music, blending smooth grooves and catchy melodies.

For any DJ, this is definitely a vinyl worth having in your ​collection.

Kenjiro Sakiya, a singer-songwriter and arranger from ​Hiroshima, is well known for his hit songs and contributions ​to many tracks. His 1988 album "Realism" is a fantastic work ​that blends his excellent songwriting skills with a late '80s, ​urban, and danceable sound, making it a standout in the city ​pop and Japanese boogie scenes. The track we're ​highlighting today is "Natsu no Gogo", an urban dancer ​with a boogie rhythm and a hint of marine flavor. This ​album is packed with more boogie-infused city pop, making ​it a must-have for any DJ!

Debuting in 1986, Kiichi Yokoyama is a male singer from ​Hokkaido known for his charming looks, tall stature, and his ​influences from Motown and American pop. He was ​particularly active during the bubble era, and in the '90s, he ​became known for providing songs to acts like ZOO ("YA-​YA-YA") and EXILE. From his 1988 album "PRESSURE", ​we’re introducing "TRULY", a dreamy track with an urban ​vibe that starts with breakbeats and carries the feel of The ​Blow Monkeys, yet with a Tetsuji Kadomatsu-style 80's AOR ​mellow mid-tempo finish.

"Bewith" is the third original album by Miki Imai, released in ​1988.

The track we're highlighting from this album is "Reizouko ​no Akaride". The bouncy, boogie-style drums are played by ​Jun Aoyama from Tatsuro Yamashita's band!

It’s an undisputed hidden gem in the city pop genre!

Atsuko Funae, a female singer-songwriter from Osaka who ​was active in the '80s, released her 5th album "HIM" in 1986, ​blending resort-style and city pop sounds. The album ​features contributions from artists like Yasuhiro Abe, Kazuto ​Murata, Mari Sugi, Jun Sato, Kenjiro Sakiya, Masayuki ​Kishino, and Bread & Butter, with backing musicians ​including Masaki Matsubara, Makoto Matsushita, Jun Sato, ​Nobu Saito, and JAKE H. CONCEPTION.

The track we're highlighting is "Wonderland Yuyami City", a ​beautiful summer night tune that showcases Mari Sugi's ​exceptional pop sensibility.

Irene Forlain, a pop group from Kochi Prefecture, is an ​outstanding band that hasn't received the recognition it ​truly deserves for the high quality of their music. Led by ​Takashi Yasuoka, a talented melody maker with a delicate ​voice, they aimed to create sophisticated, easy-listening pop ​music. After a fierce competition between record labels, ​they made their major debut. Their debut single, "Slow na ​Dance wa Odorenai", was actively promoted, including ​being used as the theme song for a TV drama, and they ​were hailed as an exciting new act. However, despite the ​initial attention, they never fully broke through, and by three ​years after their debut, their activities came to an ​unfortunate halt. Still, as mentioned, their albums were of ​exceptional quality, and their debut album stands out as ​one of the best, with several killer tracks making it a classic ​of the '80s. The track we're highlighting is the fantastic '80s ​boogie tune, "Mystery Girl".

Debuting in 1991 as a singer-songwriter, this artist later ​shifted his focus primarily to songwriting, providing ​numerous tracks for voice actors and idols. One of his ​recent notable works is "Don't Be Cruel" by Tokyo Girls' ​Style. In comparison to his contemporary, Shinpei ​Watanabe, his recognition is still growing, but his soaring ​high-pitched vocals, which follow the tradition of 1980s ​male city pop singer-songwriters, combined with his ​refined, high-quality compositions, are truly remarkable. ​Here, we’re showcasing the second track, "Blue in Heart," ​from his debut album ETERNAL COLORS, which is inspired ​by Chaka Khan/AWB's "What'Cha Gonna Do for Me."

Mariko Ashibe, known for singing the theme song "Glass no ​Kamen" and the ending "Purple Light" for the 1984 TV anime ​adaptation of Suzue Miuchi’s shoujo manga Glass no ​Kamen, released her 1984 album STREET SCANDAL.

The album features horn arrangements by Ichiro Nitta, the ​frontman and trumpet player of the Japanese brass rock ​band SPECTRUM, who were influenced by Earth, Wind & ​Fire and Kool & the Gang. It also includes performances by ​Naoki Watanabe, Makoto Matsushita, Rajie, EVE, and ​others.

The track we're highlighting is "Highway Dancer," an 80s ​Japanese boogie dancer track with a thick horn ​arrangement by Ichiro Nitta, a groovy slap bass, and a ​perfect fit for any DJ.

Mayumi Horikawa, the older sister of city pop singer-​songwriter Remi, released her third album. Mayumi began ​her career in 1978 when she debuted as a model and ​released her first single the same year, produced by ​Masataka Matsutoya. In 1985, she changed her stage name ​to MAYUMI and started composing, contributing city pop-​style songs to various artists.

The track we're featuring is "CASINO," an urban boogie ​from her 1986 album MAYM. The album features a talented ​lineup of musicians, including Hideo Yamaki (drums), Naoki ​Watanabe / Hideki Matsubara (bass), Fujimaru Yoshino / ​Tsuyoshi Ima (guitar), Shiro Sagisu / Haruo Togashi / ​Hiroshi Shinkawa (keyboards).

This album is a must-have for DJs!

Kunikiko Fukushima, a female singer-songwriter from ​Okayama, released this 7" single in 1978. Known for her ​powerful vocals and cool rock sound, she delivers a ​standout performance on "Slow Dancer," a mellow soul ​track with a distinctive Japanese flair. The tight rhythm ​guitar phrases and the medium-tempo beat create a ​smooth, side-to-side groove that's absolutely perfect. With ​its uplifting chorus and heartfelt lyrics, this track shines on ​the dancefloor late at night. It's a must-have killer tune for ​any DJ!

"Monkey Magic" is a song by Godiego, with lyrics by Yoko ​Narahashi and music composed by Yukihide Takekawa. ​Released as the group's 8th single in 1978 by Nippon ​Columbia, it was used as the opening theme for the ​Japanese TV dramas Saiyuki and Saiyuki II.

What makes this track unique is that the lyrics are entirely in ​English, which was rare for Japanese songs at the time. It’s ​a funky dance tune with a boogie rock vibe—guaranteed to ​get the floor jumping!

How was the 'CITYPOP CLASSICS Non-Stop Dance ​Megamix' for you?

If a song catches your interest, bookmark this page and ​enjoy it later at your leisure.