Turning Japanese

I think I'm turning Japanese! Experience The Vapors' iconic 1980 new wave smash hit, "Turning Japanese." Driven by an unforgettable, angular guitar riff and frantic energy, this track became a massive international success and the band's defining one-hit wonder.

Released as the signature single from the British band The Vapors' debut album New Clear Days, this track stormed the charts worldwide. Its perfect blend of power pop hooks, nervous new wave energy, and memorable chorus captured the sound of the burgeoning post-punk influenced pop scene.

This quintessential 1980 rock song remains instantly recognizable for its distinctive guitar hook and energetic performance. Despite frequent misinterpretations of its lyrics, "Turning Japanese" endures as a classic power pop/new wave anthem and one of the era's most famous one-hit wonders.

SONG MEANING: Despite persistent rumors and misinterpretations suggesting the title is slang for masturbation, songwriter David Fenton has consistently stated the song is about the angst, alienation, and loss of identity experienced after a relationship breakup ("I want a doctor / To take your picture / So I can look at you from inside as well"). "Turning Japanese" is used metaphorically to describe these intense feelings of emotional turmoil.