Tetsuji Hayashi, a master of Japanese pop, produced this song for Miki Matsubara around the same time he worked on Mariya Takeuchi’s “September.” Released as her debut single in November 1979, it has become an iconic City Pop track—a timeless masterpiece beloved not only in Japan but around the world. “Midnight Door” features an exquisite combination of Tokuko Miura’s lyrics—which masterfully depict a woman’s wistful heart with urban flair—and Tetsuji Hayashi’s melody. Backed by a rhythm section featuring Tsugutoshi Goto (bass) and Tatsuo Hayashi (drums), along with master guitarist Masaki Matsubara (electric guitar), this track represents the pinnacle of Japanese disco and soul. An evergreen classic.