Classic and popular songs by Crazy Ken Band
Here’s an introduction to songs by Crazy Ken Band, led by Ken Yokoyama, famous for the catchphrase “Ii ne!” The band’s music is characterized by incorporating various elements—enka-style pop, rock, funk, and R&B.
Although they’re often associated with the term “Showa kayō” (Showa-era pop), they continually explore new styles beyond just Showa pop.
The line “Ore no hanashi o kike” (“Listen to what I have to say”) from their signature song Tiger & Dragon is said to be a phrase that Mr.
Yokoyama’s father used to say frequently back in the day.
Please enjoy.
Crazy Ken Band’s classic and popular songs (1–10)
A Man’s RunwayCRAZY KEN BAND
This song is included on their seventh album, Soul Punch.
It features their first-ever orchestral arrangement.
You could call it Crazy Ken Band’s version of “My Way.” The message of “My Standard,” which takes the idea of “My Way” even further, is an encouraging one.
oldies but goodiesCRAZY KEN BAND
This song is included on the first bust edition, the “CKB Best Album.” Now that he’s an adult, it reflects on the past—expressing remorse for youthful indiscretions and gratitude toward his father.
It features a very gentle, waltz-like melody in 3/4 time that leaves a strong impression.
GOING TO A GO-GOCRAZY KEN BAND
As their moniker “the greatest sound machine in the East, Crazy Ken Band” suggests, this is a track you can dance your heart out to, featuring a crazy sound creation that hasn’t faded one bit even 20 years after their debut.
Beyond the brilliance of the music itself, the witty word choices and Japanese dad jokes make it a truly top-of-the-East funky number.
TampopoCRAZY KEN BAND
This song, a standout track from Crazy Ken Band’s port-town-themed 2019 album “PACIFIC,” had its music video filmed in the Yokohama waterfront area.
From the car to the city to the music itself, Yokoyama Ken’s world unfolds in a wonderfully cool way.
With its nostalgic yet fresh vibe, it’s a perfect companion for a drive, don’t you think?
It’s complete chaos.CRAZY KEN BAND
Released on February 21, 2007 as their 10th single, it was selected as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama series “This Week, My Wife Is Having an Affair.” With a characteristically upbeat, funky arrangement and lyrics and melody that only they could deliver, I don’t think anyone else could perform this song!
Delinquent ClubCRAZY KEN BAND
A irresistibly sexy and adult groove—one that probably only Crazy Ken Band could pull off in Japan—this 2012 release is a gem.
It’s perfect for dancing passionately, with sweet vocals and rock-solid craftsmanship, and it’s the kind of track you’ll want to play in a sultry, moody setting like by the pool on a tropical night.
It’s Crazy Ken Band at their best.
Asano Tadanobu in the music video is pretty sexy, too.
afternoonCRAZY KEN BAND
This is a track included on the second album, Goldfish Bowl.
It captures a languid summer and an afternoon in Yokohama Chinatown with a slow melody and backing track.
The mention of the Zhou brothers, Fude and Fuki, in the lyrics also evokes the era.
bubble(s)CRAZY KEN BAND
A re-cut single from the album “Brown Metallic,” released on December 1, 2004, it was selected as the theme song for the film “About Thirty Lies.” Compared to their previous work, the more lyrical tone of the lyrics makes this a track that showcases the depth of their artistry.
Daddy’s LullabyCRAZY KEN BAND
Tensai Bakabon, one of Fujio Akatsuka’s signature works—surely many adults grew up watching it.
This song, used as the theme for the 2015 film “Tensai Bakavon: The Dog of Flanders Reborn,” has a wonderful, positively Shōwa-era vibe characteristic of Crazy Ken Band.
Bits of the original theme song’s lyrics are sprinkled throughout.
It’s a spark!CRAZY KEN BAND
A Showa-era streetscape.
A parent and child out shopping.
For some reason, the mom has an Afro and is African American—this quirky MV is amusing, and the song’s gentle, heartwarming melody is part of its charm.
With this track, Crazy Ken Band made their first appearance on “Minna no Uta.” It’s a message song for adults that cherishes the child you once were and expresses the wish to live brightly in the present.