Kiyoshiro Imawano’s classic and popular songs
Let me introduce songs by Kiyoshiro Imawano, one of Japan’s most iconic rock musicians, who passed away in 2009.
In addition to his solo work, Kiyoshiro Imawano was active in bands such as RC Succession and THE TIMERS, remaining a performer to the very end of his life.
He was memorable for his socially satirical songs and actions that often stirred controversy—classic rock in spirit—but that very stance was incredibly cool and captivated many fans.
His uniquely distinctive singing voice is truly one of a kind and his greatest appeal.
Please enjoy this playlist of Kiyoshiro Imawano, whose popularity shows no sign of fading.
- Kiyoshiro Imawano’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [A Must-See for Rock Beginners] KiYoshiro Imawano's Easy-to-Sing Songs
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- Songs to give to your lover or someone you like. Love songs devoted wholeheartedly to your boyfriend or girlfriend.
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
- Yoshimi Iwasaki Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- The allure of surf music: a supreme healing space lured by the ocean’s tones
- RC Succession Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Kishidan’s famous and popular songs
- Classic Japanese punk songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Kyosuke Himuro’s iconic and popular songs
- Keizo Nakanishi’s approachable hit songs and fan favorites
Kiyoshiro Imawano’s classic and popular songs (41–50)
Slow BalladImawano Kiyoshirō
Kiyoshiro Imawano, who formed RC Succession, is such a pivotal figure in rock that he’s often called the King of Rock.
Yet at his core he was also a soul singer, deeply influenced by soul and blues.
You can hear the influence of Otis Redding in his vocal style, and he even recreated the stagecraft of the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, in his live shows.
In 1992, he released the album “Memphis,” featuring Booker T.
& the M.G.’s, who had been Otis Redding’s backing band.
pet phrase; habitual saying; catchphrase; verbal ticrafiitafii
I don’t know who originally wrote this song, but I’ve heard it was intended to be offered to an idol singer.
The composition isn’t by Kiyoshiro, but it’s quite a good song.
I think what sets Kiyoshiro apart from ordinary people is that he thought of having an idol singer perform these lyrics.
Even though I went to the police,rafiitafii
This is a song released in July 2000 by Raffi Taffi, a band formed around Kiyoshiro Imawano.
Known for stirring up the public with socially satirical songs and actions that are like a textbook of rock, Imawano delivers exactly that kind of track here as well.
The song takes the Okegawa female college student stalking case as its subject and is notable for expressing distrust of the police.
Included on the album Cross of Summer, it was produced to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Kiyoshiro Imawano’s musical career.
By tackling real social issues, it leaves a strong impression on listeners.
By repeatedly depicting the experience of not being taken seriously even when seeking help from the police, it embeds a critique of social indifference and absurdity.
Elementary school children are passing by the road in front of my house again this morning.Imawano Kiyoshirō
This is a memorable song featuring Kiyoshiro Imawano’s warm voice and a melody tinged with melancholy.
The piece sings of childhood memories, the cityscape that has changed, and the realization that the one who has changed the most is oneself.
It expresses an attachment to the things that remain unchanged even as time passes.
It is included on the albums “Kanashii Kotobakkari” and “sings soul ballads,” and was released in November 2011.
It was also used as the theme song for a drama 23 years ago and is remembered by many as a nostalgic tune.
It’s a recommended track for times when you want to move between past and present and reflect on your own changes and growth.
I want to brag about it to people all over the world.Imawano Kiyoshirō
The straightforward lyrics, which clearly bring out Kiyoshiro Imawano’s sentimental side, are truly moving and bring tears to your eyes! “Sekai-ju no Hito ni Jiman Shitai yo” (“I Want to Brag About You to Everyone in the World”) was released as a single in April 1996 under Kiyoshiro’s solo name.
The lyrics, which express a pure desire to boast about someone precious to you and about the bond between you and them, avoid any sense of insincerity precisely because Kiyoshiro is the one singing them, and they simply seep into the listener’s heart.
The soulful backing vocals are another highlight, showcasing a side of Kiyoshiro’s musicality distinct from domestic J-pop-style ballads.
The range is a bit on the high side, but the melody is easy to pitch.
Try singing it with your heart, savoring each word.
crowdImawano Kiyoshirō
Singer-songwriter Kiyoshiro Imawano, beloved by many for his unconventional personality and distinctive musicality.
Though he’s a singer who represents rock and punk, he also released songs rooted in the blues, which could be called a close relative of those genres.
Among them, the one I especially recommend is “Zattō” (Crowd).
Surprisingly, Imawano’s uniquely colored voice pairs exceptionally well with the blues.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to hear blues that carries a refined coolness while holding a subtle, wistful touch.
Baby#1Imawano Kiyoshirō
An album of previously unreleased recordings by Kiyoshiro Imawano was released on March 5, 2010—the 40th anniversary commemorating his record debut on March 5, 1970.
Strictly speaking, it is one of RC Succession’s unreleased works.
It was used as a commercial song for House Foods’ “Curry Campaign.”