Immerse yourself in the twilight ambiance of Tokyo with this CITYPOP MIX!

Embark on a nostalgic cruise through the Tokyo Bay area of the '70s and ​'80s.

The second edition of the 'Mellow' series: CITYPOP Twilight ​Mellow MIX!

Featuring a carefully curated selection of soulful and groovy ​tracks, this mix will get your heart and body moving ​effortlessly.

Now, dive into the virtual twilight cityscape of Tokyo!

DEAR BREEZE" from Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe’s 1985 album ​ANOTHER SUMMER is a milestone track that infused the band’s signature soft ​rock style with a more soulful sound. Written by Yasushi Akimoto and composed ​and arranged by Tetsuji Hayashi, the song showcases the refined production and ​melodic sophistication that define CITYPOP.

This album marked the band's first release as a five-member group following the ​departure of guitarist Kenji Yoshida. Fueled by consecutive hits like "Futari no ​Natsu Monogatari" and "Silence ga Ippai", ANOTHER SUMMER became their ​first album to reach No.1 on the charts and ranked 13th on the 1985 year-end ​album chart.

The album’s cover and lyric booklet were shot on Mykonos Island, Greece, and ​beneath the album title, a description of the real hotel Les Moulins, located on ​the island, can be found. The intro of "DEAR BREEZE" appears to interpolate Ray ​Parker Jr. & Raydio’s "A Woman Needs Love", subtly adding a stylish reference.

With its blend of smooth melodies, soulful instrumentation, and polished ​arrangement, "DEAR BREEZE" stands as a defining track in the evolution of ​Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe’s sound and remains an essential classic in ​CITYPOP history.

The song "Tōku Nagisa Kara" from Sail Away's first and only album, Sweet ​Sweat (1982), is a hidden gem in the world of CITYPOP. Sail Away is a band ​known only to dedicated CITYPOP enthusiasts, yet this album boasts ​contributions from some of Japan’s most legendary songwriters, including ​Kyohei Tsutsumi, often referred to as the father of KAYO-POP.

The intro of "Tōku Nagisa Kara" includes a phrase that appears to pay homage ​to Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio’s "A Woman Needs Love", likely the work of the ​song’s arranger, Mitsuo Hagita. However, what truly sets this track apart is the ​rare collaboration between Taeko Ohnuki and Kyohei Tsutsumi—two musical ​giants from different backgrounds. Their combined artistry results in an ​undeniably timeless CITYPOP masterpiece.

"TWO IN THE PARTY" by Hi-Fi Set's 1979 album Quarter Rest is a standout ​CITYPOP gem featuring an unforgettable electric piano phrase that seems to pay ​homage to Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio’s "A Woman Needs Love".

The trio—Junko Yamamoto, Toshihiko Yamamoto, and Shigeru Okawa—was ​known for their impeccable vocal harmonies, setting them apart from other ​CITYPOP groups of the time. Their seamless and sophisticated choral work ​remains one of the defining aspects of their music.

Unfortunately, the original members are no longer active in the music industry. ​Junko Yamamoto has been on an indefinite hiatus due to vocal issues. Toshihiko ​Yamamoto, who later worked as a music producer, passed away from ischemic ​heart failure at his home in Setagaya, Tokyo, on March 27, 2014, shortly after his ​wife Junko announced her indefinite hiatus. Shigeru Okawa was arrested in 1995 ​for an attempted theft at a supermarket in Aoba Ward, Yokohama, though he ​was not prosecuted. He never returned to music, however, despite not being ​prosecuted.

As a result, their remarkable three-part harmony can never be heard live again, ​making their recordings all the more precious. Incidentally, the group’s name, Hi-​Fi Set, was suggested by Haruomi Hosono.

"Petit Dejeuner 'Nichiyoubi no Choshoku'" by Circus, from their 1981 album ​Four Seasons To Love, is a charming CITYPOP track with a European-inspired ​feel. This album marks Circus’ first release after they moved from Alfa Records ​to Warner Pioneer, following the end of their peak period, which ended with the ​hit "Sariyuku Natsu" in 1980. During their time at Alfa, each of their singles ​charted within the Oricon Top 100, but after switching labels, they moved away ​from the mainstream hit charts. Despite this, their approach to music remained ​unchanged, continuing to produce pop songs that appealed to adults.

Four Seasons To Love is a concept album with 12 tracks, divided into four ​sections that each represent a different season. While concept albums centered ​around the seasons are not uncommon in the world of Japanese folk song or ​KAYO-POP, it’s relatively rare in the realms of new music or CITYPOP. The ​album features songs inspired by each season, written by notable CITYPOP ​songwriters like Yuichiro Oda, Tetsuji Hayashi, and Tsunehiro Izumi.

The spring section opens with the gentle European-style number "Petit Dejeuner ​"Nichiyoubi no Choshoku"". Its intro features an electric piano phrase that ​seems to pay homage to Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio’s "A Woman Needs Love", ​making it an instantly memorable CITYPOP gem. The warm, breezy vibe of this ​track perfectly encapsulates the fresh and optimistic feel of spring, and it remains ​a delightful addition to the album.

The album RAINBOW, released in 1977 under the name Minoya Central Station, ​marked the band's first official work, featuring the soulful Junko Ohashi, whose ​mesmerizing voice captivated listeners. The group also included Masami ​Tsuchiya of Ippu-Do and Ken Sato, who would later become her husband.

A true standout on the album, Rainy Saturday & Coffee Break, composed by ​Tetsuji Hayashi, is undeniably a City Pop classic. As soon as Kenjiro Oda's ​electric piano (Rhodes) intro starts playing, you can't help but groove along!

"MY SUGAR BABE" is a song inspired by Sugar Babe, the band Tatsuro ​Yamashita was a part of before launching his solo career. He had been toying ​with the idea of writing a song like this for quite some time, and when working ​on the album RIDE ON TIME, he felt that the time had finally come to bring it to ​life.

The song was later used as the theme for the NTV drama Keishi-K and was ​subsequently released as a single.

The remastered edition of RIDE ON TIME includes an instrumental version ​recorded specifically for the drama as a bonus track. Additionally, the SPECIAL ​BONUS DISC in THE RCA / AIR YEARS LP BOX 1976-1982 features a short ​version recorded for the show's ending title sequence.

For this playlist, I’ve added a special track that blends the short vocal version with ​the instrumental version.

The singer-songwriter Meiko Nakahara, who took the Latin pop scene by storm ​in the '80s, released her highly acclaimed 4th album, LOTOS no Kajitsu, in 1984​—a masterpiece in the City Pop genre.

The album features beloved tracks in the free soul scene, such as the iconic ​"Mahō no Kāpetto," which draws influence from Elbow Bones & The ​Racketeers' Night in New York. It also includes the famous summer campaign ​song for Kanebo Cosmetics, "Kimitachi Kiwi Papaya Mango Dane," a classic in ​the Japanese funka-latina genre, and the tropical-sounding "Lotos no Kajitsu, ​"with steel pan accents reminiscent of Stevie Wonder’s Another Star. Another ​standout track is "Melancholy Tea Time," a summer City Pop gem with a horn ​arrangement evoking Young-Holt Unlimited’s Soulful Strut.

This time, we’re spotlighting the exquisite urban mid-groove "Cloudy Na Gogo," ​which carries a breezy seaside vibe.

Summer Breeze is the fourth original album by Hideomi Ishikawa, released on ​July 21, 1984. Although it is out of print on CD and unavailable on music ​streaming services, it remains highly regarded as a masterpiece among City Pop ​fans.

With the addition of composer Tetsuji Hayashi alongside Yuichiro Oda, who had ​supported her since her debut, the album’s style and freshness are greatly ​enhanced.

Notably, lyricist Takashi Matsumoto, who had written for her 1982 debut album ​Yōsei, also contributed lyrics to two tracks, making this album even more ​special.

The track we’re spotlighting today is Kumori Nochi Tokidoki Hare, a song ​penned by Yoichi Takizawa, a well-known figure in the City Pop scene.

With a rhythm reminiscent of Michael Jackson's The Girl Is Mine, featuring Paul ​McCartney, this medium-tempo track became a popular style during the rise of ​AOR at the time. Its relaxed groove makes it an unforgettable piece.

Yurie Kokubu, a highly skilled singer known for her powerful vocals, has ​often worked as a backing vocalist for various artists. She made her debut in ​1983 with the album Relief, produced by Tetsuji Hayashi, and gained further ​recognition through her duet with Toshiki Kadomatsu, Sayonara wa Ai no ​Kotoba.

In the 1990s, her talent as a lyricist also came into the spotlight when Tada ​Nakitakunaru no, a drama theme song she wrote for Miho Nakayama, ​became a million-selling hit. However, at her core, she remains a singer, ​known for her powerful vocal style, influenced by contemporary Black music ​and reminiscent of Chaka Khan. Despite pursuing a steady and independent ​path, she has continued to release music throughout her career.

STEPS, her second album, was released four years after her debut and ​embraced the global musical trends of the time, incorporating bold digital ​production and programmed sounds. Kokubu's commanding vocal ​presence remains undeterred by the intense, hard-hitting production, ​resulting in an electrifying and well-crafted album.

From this album, today we’re highlighting I Wanna Be With You, a track ​well-loved by City Pop fans!

AMY's 1983 debut album AMY was introduced to the world with the single ​Shunkan Shoujo, produced and arranged by renowned studio musician and ​guitarist Masaki Matsubara.

The album boasts contributions from top-tier musicians, including members ​of AKA-GUY and Parachute, making it a prime example of high-quality ​Showa-era idol pop with a classic city pop touch.

One of the standout tracks, “Ameiro no Screen”, blends mellow and groovy ​vibes, with AMY’s charmingly youthful vocals adding to its appeal. A ​wonderful album overall!

The timeless city pop classics—Miki Matsubara’s Mayonaka no Door ~ Stay ​With Me, Mariya Takeuchi’s SEPTEMBER, Anri’s Kanashimi ga Tomaranai, ​and Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe’s Futari no Natsu Monogatari—​were all written by city pop maestro Tetsuji Hayashi, who rose to fame as ​one of the most sought-after songwriters in the 1980s.

During his prime, he released his third solo album, SUMMER WINE, in 1980. ​The album features an all-star lineup of musicians, including Tatsuo ​Hayashi, Akira Okazawa, Masaki Matsubara, Tsuyoshi Kon, Kentaro Haneda, ​Hiroyuki Namba, Tate Muraoka, Mari Kaneko, Mariya Takeuchi, EPO, and ​Yuka Kamebuchi.

Brimming with a sophisticated AOR sound reminiscent of Billy Joel and ​David Foster, SUMMER WINE pays homage to the smooth and refined ​aesthetics of the genre.

Today, we’re introducing Silly Girl, an urban groove track featuring Mariya ​Takeuchi and EPO on backing vocals.

The 1983 debut album Mysterious is a quintessential WA-BOOGIE ​masterpiece.

Packed with DJ-friendly tracks, this record is a true gem for selectors. From ​the unmistakably Michael Jackson-inspired Japanese boogie number Foxy ​Lady to the oriental urban dancer 52F. Chinese Girl, the album offers a range ​of grooves perfect for the dancefloor.

Today, we’re spotlighting one of the most popular DJ cuts from the album—​the smooth and funky Everyday.

Miki Matsubara debuted in 1979 with the city pop classic Mayonaka no Door ​~ Stay With Me, a song that became a milestone in city pop history and sold ​an impressive 300,000 copies. Sadly, she passed away in 2004 at the age of ​44 due to cancer, but her legacy as an unforgettable singer lives on.

Her sixth album, REVUE, which was released in 1983, features contributions ​from Tetsuji Hayashi and Ken Sato, both of whom had been involved since ​her debut. Additionally, new compositions were provided by Ginji Ito and ​Kaname Nemoto from Stardust Revue.

Today, we’re highlighting the album’s standout track, "Amenochi ​Hallelujah"—a soulful city pop gem with smooth synth work reminiscent of ​Mr. Telephone Man by New Edition and A Woman Needs Love by Ray ​Parker Jr. & Raydio.

A must-have for any city pop DJ, yet a rare gem for collectors!

"Kiss wo Surunoni Koi Shiterunoni" – The One and Only Single by Kaoru ​Aizawa

Produced by the renowned Nobuyuki Shimizu, a well-known figure in the ​city pop scene, this is Kaoru Aizawa’s only single. In 1989, she released her ​only album, Mou Ichido Koi wo Shiyou. This single features the album’s first ​two tracks, presented in the same order.

① Orphe no Natsu (LET'S TAKE A CHANCE)

Lyrics: Reiko Yukawa / Music: Ichiro Haneda / Arrangement: Nobuyuki ​Shimizu

With a lineup of top-tier songwriters, this track has a polished, major-label ​sound. Shimizu’s signature crisp techno arrangement is reminiscent of the ​Uwaki na Bokura era. With its urban and slightly melancholic mood, the ​song perfectly suits Aizawa’s vocal tone—you can easily picture it in a ​cosmetics commercial.

But today, we’re highlighting track ②:

② Kiss wo Surunoni Koi Shiterunoni (WHAT CHA' GONNA DO FOR ME)

Japanese Lyrics: Kenji Ozawa / Music: Ned Doheny & Hamish Stuart / ​Arrangement: Ned Doheny & Nobuyuki Shimizu

Originally recorded by Average White Band in 1981 (though Chaka Khan’s ​version is more widely known), Ned Doheny later recorded his own version ​on his 1988 album Life After Romance.

For this Kaoru Aizawa version, Ned Doheny not only co-arranged the track ​but also provided backing vocals. The result is a smooth urban soul sound ​that sits somewhere between Ned’s and Chaka’s interpretations. Aizawa’s ​playful yet sultry delivery adds an irresistible charm.

The Japanese lyrics, written from a female perspective, were penned by ​Kenji Ozawa—often regarded as a key figure in the Shibuya-kei movement. ​In November 1989, just after the release of The Flipper’s Guitar’s first album, ​Three Cheers for Our Side ~ Umi e Iku Tsumori Janakatta, Ozawa provided ​lyrics for four songs on a fellow Polystar artist’s debut album. This is likely ​one of his earliest works as a lyricist outside his own projects.

Junko Ohashi’s 1984 Greatest Hits Album Magical – A City Pop Favorite

Released in July 1984, Magical marks Junko Ohashi’s third greatest hits ​album and remains a beloved gem among city pop fans.

While A Love Affair is undoubtedly the most popular track from the album, ​today we’re shining a spotlight on I Love You So—a song composed by her ​longtime life and creative partner, Ken Sato.

A clear homage to What Cha’ Gonna Do for Me by Average White Band ​(though Chaka Khan’s version is more widely known), this track transforms ​into an irresistibly groovy masterpiece, brought to life by Junko Ohashi’s ​stunningly soulful vocals. Once you hear it, you won’t be able to resist ​dancing!

Takuya Takahashi – A Lost City Pop Treasure

Takuya Takahashi was the frontman, guitarist, and vocalist of the soft rock ​band LOU, which debuted in 1976, produced by city pop maestro Tetsuji ​Hayashi.

After LOU broke up, he launched his solo career in 1979, releasing two ​albums and three singles before vanishing from the music industry.

Today, we’re spotlighting Shadow on the Wall, a standout track from his ​second album, Fantastic Love in Wonderland.

The original pressing was long considered a rare collector’s item, but thanks ​to a recent reissue, it’s now much easier to find.

If you spot a copy, don’t think twice—snatch it up while you can!

SUPER DRIVE – A Star-Studded Collaboration

The album SUPER DRIVE boasts an incredible lineup: Hiromi Go teams up ​with the legendary 24th Street Band—Hiram Bullock, Will Lee, Steve Jordan, ​and Cliff Carter.

If I recall correctly, the recording sessions were scheduled to align with their ​visit to Japan, with none other than the renowned sound engineer Tamotsu ​Yoshida at the helm. Adding to its iconic status, the album’s striking cover ​artwork was designed by the legendary Tadanori Yokoo.

For fans of Light Mellow, “Irie Nite” is a must-listen, and city pop ​enthusiasts will find plenty to love here. But today, I’d like to spotlight a ​hidden gem—Feel Like Goin’ Home - "Yume ga Sumu Machi he", a ​masterpiece penned by none other than city pop maestro Tetsuji Hayashi.

Despite being rarely mentioned in the countless city pop memes floating ​around the web, Yumi Matsutoya (formerly Yumi Arai) produced a wealth of ​outstanding city pop tracks from the late '70s to the early '80s.

Today, we’re highlighting Youkoso Kagayaku Jikan he, a track from her 13th ​studio album, PEARL PIERCE, released in 1982.

This album is undoubtedly a city pop classic, and it’s likely still available at a ​reasonable price. DJs, don’t miss your chance to grab a copy!

How was the CITYPOP Twilight Mellow MIX for you?

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