My Showa Pop Songs 87: 365-Step March (1968)

Kumamoto is now in the middle of a bubble, with semiconductors bringing happiness.

I'll be honest.
At the time, I absolutely hated this song lol.

I thought, 'I'm not really into Enka singers who perform in traditional men's kimono robes.'

Kiyoko Suizenji, or 'Cheeta,' was featured on the record jacket for this song wearing a marching band uniform. What was that about?

Strangely enough, the influence of television in the Showa era was immense.

Even though I thought I hated it so much, Cheeta on TV didn't care at all, singing 'One-two, one-two' with a huge smile on her face. Good for her!

Before I knew it, I was singing along (lol).

Running errands I didn't want to do. Making the futon when I didn't want to.
Somehow, singing this song makes you feel happy.

Even when I woke up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, I sang it in my heart to brighten my mood.

🎵 Happiness doesn't walk toward you, so you have to walk toward it 🎵
When you sing Showa pop songs in the Reiwa era, you realize they actually have great lyrics.

🎵 Life is a one-two punch, let's walk through the sweat and tears 🎵

In 2022, the 12th Escort Squadron of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at the Kure Naval Base created a new logo. Since their nickname was 'Cheetah,' they designed it using a cheetah and the 'Life is a one-two punch' line from '365-Step March.'

Of course, Cheeta isn't a leftist celebrity, so she gave her approval.

🎵 Beautiful flowers will surely bloom in the footprints you leave behind 🎵

🎵 Believe that even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step 🎵

Having experienced caring for her mother, her own surgeries, and divorce, she is still active today.

Kiyoko Suizenji is 78 years old. I wonder if she walked toward happiness?

[Reference Materials]

Bonus lol

[Previous Article]