Kokoro no Tabi / Tulip

Song Introduction (Kokoro no Tabi)

【曲　名】
Title: Kokoro no Tabi (Title meaning: Journey of the Heart)
Artist: Tulip
Lyrics & Composition: Kazuo Zaitsu
Label: EMI Music Japan
Overview:

The third single by the band Tulip, released on April 20, 1973.
It reached number one on the Oricon charts that same year and became one of their signature songs.

Article Source:
Tulip (Band) – Wikipedia
“Kokoro no Tabi” (Song by Tulip) – Wikipedia

About the Song

This song, their third single, was released under a do-or-die situation with the band threatening to return to Fukuoka city from Tokyo if it did not succeed.

The lyrics tell the story of a male protagonist who, due to some circumstances, must part from their lover and embark on a solo journey by train the next day.

He wishes to hold their partner close and be together just for tonight.
Although their love may end with their separation the following day, the “journey of the heart” for both of them begins from that moment.

It paints a poignant picture of parting but also expresses hope through the “journey of the heart” in their shared memories, making it a truly beautiful and moving song.

Song Video

心の旅

Artist Introduction (Tulip)

Artist: Tulip
Original Members:
Kazuo Zaitsu (Band Leader) – Vocals, Guitar, Keyboard
Toshiyuki Abe – Vocals, Guitar
Tatsuya Himeno – Vocals, Guitar, Keyboard
Masatoshi Ueda – Drums, Vocals
Shinichiro Miyagi – Bass, Vocals
Formation Location: Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Official Sites:
TULIP | Victor Entertainment
Tulip – UNIVERSAL MUSIC JAPAN
Kazuo Zaitsu Official Site

Artist Trails

Tulip is one of the bands with a long history in the Japanese music scene.

In 1970, they moved from Fukuoka to Tokyo, underwent some member changes, and eventually began their full-scale activities with a lineup consisting of Kazuo Zaitsu, Tatsuya Himeno, Toshiyuki Abe, Masatoshi Ueda, and Akira Yoshida.

In 1972, Tulip made their major debut with the single “Mahō no Kiiroi Kutsu” (The Magic Yellow Shoes).

Their third single, “Kokoro no Tabi” (Journey of the Heart), released in 1973, became a huge hit, topping the Oricon charts in japan.

Following this, they continued to produce hit songs such as “Seishun no Kage” (Shadow of Youth) in 1974 and “Saboten no Hana” (Cactus Flower) in 1975, solidifying their reputation as one of the leading bands of the 1970s.

By 1979, the band entered a new phase, incorporating synthesizers and digital equipment to create a pop and grand sound, pioneering new directions in pop and rock genres in japan.

However, they faced commercial struggles, and member departures became frequent.

In 1985, Himeno, Abe, and Ito left the band. Zaitsu continued with new members, but by 1989, the band decided to disband.

In 1997, they successfully reunited and resumed live activities with a focus on the original members. This reunion was met with enthusiastic support from fans, and they continued to hold regular reunions and performances.

Throughout their long career, Tulip has faced various trials including member departures, deaths, and changes in musical style.
Despite these challenges, they have continually evolved and walked alongside their fans through their music.

Tulip’s music has had a significant impact on the Japanese pop scene and continues to be loved across generations.

Their songs convey messages that reflect the times, and their melodies are deeply etched in the hearts of many people.