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)
Kadokawa BluesImawano Kiyoshirō
I think they gave it this title because Kadokawa Bunko was a sponsor for the acoustic live performance that was broadcast on TV.
The lyrics, which quote words from a famous work by Kenji Miyazawa and were crafted in Kiyoshiro’s own sensibility, are unique and brought great comfort to my heart.
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.
S.FImawano Kiyoshirō
A collaboration with Char.
Right after SkyPerfecTV started and I signed up, Kiyoshiro appeared on a variety show broadcast on Fuji TV’s channel.
When I saw him in the singing segment, I was amazed at how cool young Kiyoshiro was.
The song is a really cool rock ’n’ roll track.
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.
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.
Hymn for NobodyImawano Kiyoshirō
A moving song that blends poignancy and hope.
It’s imbued with the deep love felt in everyday life and a dreamlike wish for that love to last forever.
Kiyoshiro Imawano’s distinctive voice and Masahiro Sayama’s delicate musicality harmonize beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.
Featured on Masahiro Sayama’s album “HYMN FOR NOBODY,” this track is also known as a rare work that is currently difficult to obtain.
It’s recommended for times when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone you love, or when you want to reflect on the meaning of life.
This piece can be called a touching masterpiece in which Imawano’s philosophical lyrics and Sayama’s subtle musicality are seamlessly fused.