イット・マスト・ビー・ラブ

“It Must Be Love” enjoyed significant success in Japan in 1983? While the song is well known for reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart, its impact extended globally, making a strong impression in Japan, where it climbed to No. 12 on the Japanese Singles Chart. This achievement was notable, as British ska and pop music were not mainstream in Japan at the time, making Madness’ success even more remarkable.

Recognizing the song’s popularity, Victor Records, Madness’ label in Japan, decided to make the release even more appealing to Japanese fans by including “Tomorrow’s (Just Another Day)” as the B-side. This pairing was a unique combination specifically tailored for the Japanese market, as “Tomorrow’s (Just Another Day)” was itself a fan-favorite track from the band’s 1983 album The Rise & Fall. The inclusion of this song as the B-side offered a fresh and exclusive experience for Japanese listeners, showcasing Madness’ versatility in combining pop sensibilities with their signature ska rhythms.

The Japanese release featured distinctive artwork, often with cover designs that reflected the local aesthetic trends of the time, further distinguishing it from the UK version. The single became a collector’s item, treasured not just for its music but also for its unique presentation that captured Madness’ quirky charm in a way that resonated deeply with Japanese audiences.

The success of “It Must Be Love” in Japan contributed to Madness’ growing international appeal during the early 1980s, proving that their infectious energy and clever songwriting could transcend cultural and language barriers. This milestone marked a memorable chapter in the band’s history, as they continued to build their reputation as one of the era’s most beloved and innovative groups worldwide.