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)
IMAGINEImawano Kiyoshirō
Speaking of songs that wish for peace, John Lennon’s “Imagine” comes to mind.
This is a Japanese rendition of “Imagine” sung by the beloved rock singer Kiyoshiro Imawano, who sadly passed away in 2009.
There’s a message that truly resonates because it’s sung by artists who genuinely believed in and wished for love and peace.
Kiyoshiro Imawano’s classic and popular songs (51–60)
Call it the talent of believing in yourself or just conviction, but anyway, people who think “I might not be good enough” or “I’m just okay” are clearly weaker than those who think “I’m the strongest.” Without that kind of confidence, I don’t think I could’ve made it this far.Imawano Kiyoshirō
One’s own ability is something that’s hard to judge.
Even then, those who can think, “I’m the best,” are strong.
Even if it’s a bluff or a lie, if you believe in yourself, the path will open.
The words Kiyoshiro Imawano left behind are all warm and encouraging.
Live your life to the fullest!Imawano Kiyoshirō
Kiyoshiro Imawano is one of Japan’s most iconic rock stars.
“Live your life to the fullest!” may be a simple phrase, but it carries real weight precisely because it comes from Kiyoshiro, who put his life on the line to keep calling for love and peace and kept singing fearlessly in the face of anything.
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.
BoyhoodImawano Kiyoshirō
The original song is by Yosui Inoue.
Kiyoshiro Imawano, with a completely different character from Inoue’s distinctive vocals, delivers it in a light and poppy reggae-style arrangement.
Yet it also brings on that indescribable end-of-summer melancholy—a track with a uniquely captivating charm.
Heavy rainImawano Kiyoshirō
With lively drums, a bright horn section, and a catchy melody, this classic by Kiyoshiro will make your body and soul start dancing! This “Hageshii Ame” isn’t a cover of THE MODS, but rather a track included on Kiyoshiro’s sixth solo album, Yumesuke, released in 2006.
It also drew attention for featuring Kiyoshiro’s longtime ally from the RC Succession days, Reiichi Nakaido, in the songwriting.
It has that quintessential Kiyoshiro vibe, and while the surprising chorus that even mentions “RC Succession” sits a bit on the higher side of the range, the jumps aren’t too extreme.
If you relax into the upbeat groove and sing along, the rhythm comes naturally, making it easy to perform.
You only need to think about today, tomorrow, and the day after.Imawano Kiyoshirō
It may sound like living from hand to mouth.
But if we try to live each day with all our might, maybe humans can only think as far as the day after tomorrow.
I picture the late Kiyoshiro, lightly skimming over the essence with a slight smirk on his face.