Ikiteite mo Ii Desu ka cover

Ikiteite mo Ii Desu ka

Miyuki Nakajima · 1980

45 min · 8 tracks · traditional folk music

A haunting blend of traditional folk melodies and contemporary storytelling woven together with Nakajima's emotive vocal delivery.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    うらみ・ます — This opening track sets a somber tone with its intricate narrative and emotional depth, showcasing Nakajima’s ability to convey complex feelings through simple yet powerful melodies.
  • →
    泣きたい夜に — The song’s melancholic arrangement paired with heartfelt lyrics creates an atmosphere of longing that encapsulates the album's thematic essence.
  • →
    キツネ狩りの歌 — Blending traditional folklore with contemporary sound, this track stands out for its vivid storytelling and cultural resonance, reflecting Nakajima’s roots.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like emotional shifts
  • haunting melodies for reflection
  • journey through lyrical storytelling
  • late-night introspective listening
  • gradual build to emotional climax

Maybe skip if you

  • need for instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified Nakajima's reputation in the Japanese music scene.
Career context
Released in 1980, Ikiteite mo Ii Desu ka was Miyuki Nakajima's sixth studio album. At this point in her career, she had already established herself as a significant voice in the Japanese music scene, known for her poignant lyrics and unique fusion of folk and pop elements. This album further solidified her status as a leading artist in Japan's music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Akiko Yano· Hikaru Utada· Kenshi Yonezu

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 うらみ・ます 7:36
  • 2 泣きたい夜に 4:59
  • 3 キツネ狩りの歌 4:17
  • 4 蕎麦屋 5:16
  • 5 船を出すのなら九月 5:15
  • 6 インストゥルメンタル 1:10
  • 7 エレーン 7:53
  • 8 異国 9:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata