But then, a bunch of cute penguins gave it new life....
"Sweet Memories" was given a jazz torch song re-arrangement and attached to an unusual Suntory Beer commercial in the same year. It featured some anime penguins as customers in a piano bar, with Seiko-chan as a female penguin giving her heartfelt rendition. The ad became a huge hit, and revitalized the single so that a few months later at the end of October, it hit No. 1 again. The studio then re-released the single with both "Glass no Ringo" and "Sweet Memories" as twin A-sides. The single ended up ranking No. 7 for 1983, and even won Japan Record Awards: the Gold Award for "Glass no Ringo" and the Arrangement Award for "Sweet Memories". However, the commercial-song tie-up didn't go just one way. The little birds also got their time in the sun thanks to the Suntory ad by getting their own movie in 1985, titled "Penguins Memory".
This is the wholly English version of the song done by Seiko as a B-side to her 1993 single, "A Touch of Destiny". The original version, by the way, was first included in her 4th Best album, "Seiko Plaza", released in November 1983.
Whichever version you prefer, have a Suntory on me!
Thank you so much for this information!! I'm trying to find the dvd of the movie A Penguin's Memories but I can't seem to find it. If anybody can help me that would be greatful!!:)
ReplyDeleteHello there and you're most welcome!
ReplyDeleteI did a preliminary look at Yahoo.jp, and it looks like if it's available, it's through auction right now. But perhaps someone may find a new copy somewhere. Best of luck to you.
It's a wonderful song
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