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Lovely music

A signature song produced by Seiji Kameda. A “shofuku” masterpiece that brings smiles.

Seiji Kameda, a bassist Japan is proud of.

He’s been hugely successful as both a composer and a producer, so trusted that Ringo Sheena even calls him her “master,” and he has created numerous hit songs.

With his frequent Twitter motto of “shoufuku” (bringing smiles and happiness), he continues to deliver music that’s uplifting and resonates with the heart.

Even if you don’t know him by name, many of you have probably seen his face on TV and elsewhere.

Chances are you’ve heard music produced by Seiji Kameda somewhere.

Be sure to check him out.

Representative songs produced by Seiji Kameda. A collection of “Shofuku” masterpieces (1–10).

Shoulder have a good day (2018 ver.)Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – “Shoulder Have a Good Day -2018 ver.-” Music Video
Shoulder have a good day (2018 ver.)Yabai T-shatsu Yasan

With solid musicianship, lyrics full of humor, and each member’s unique personality, Yabai T-Shirts Yasan is irresistibly charming.

Among the songs I know, this one makes the best kind of “wasteful use” of Seiji Kameda’s production.

My recommended way to listen: the first time, go in cold—don’t worry too much about the lyrics, just let the music take you and feel a little moved.

The second time, read along with the lyrics and savor the humor.

And on the third listen, you’ll find yourself wanting to shout, “What a waste of Seiji Kameda!”

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ayaka / “Hitomi o Tojite” Music Video (Story 3)
Close your eyesHirai Ken

It was released in 2004 as Ken Hirai’s 20th single.

The song was used as the theme for the Toho-distributed film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” and it ranked number one on the 2004 annual Oricon Singles Chart.

Although it is a male vocalist’s song, it has a very high key, and the falsetto-based singing style makes it quite difficult to perform.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

It’s a love song that expresses a woman’s feelings for the person she loves, wishing that everything about them overflows with kindness—something I’d especially like women in love to listen to.

The lyrics are highly relatable.

When you hear JUJU’s overwhelming vocal power, you’ll be completely drawn into her voice.

Signature songs produced by Seiji Kameda: “Shofuku” masterpieces (11–20)

It’ll get stained.Chatto Monchī

Chatmonchy “I’ll Be Dyed” Music Video
It'll get stained.Chatto Monchī

It’s a ballad released by Chatmonchy in 2008.

The song has a relentlessly simple arrangement with no unnecessary sounds, and precisely because of that, the beauty of the melody and the power of the vocals come through vividly.

Songs like this often end up with strings and a grand arrangement, but it’s impressive that they avoid that and go for an arrangement that delivers the message straight and clear!

Aino Katachi feat. HIDE (GReeeeN)MISIA

MISIA – Shape of Love feat. HIDE (GReeeeN) (Official Music Video)
Aino Katachi feat. HIDE (GReeeeN)MISIA

A collaborative number by MISIA and HIDE from GReeeeN, chosen as the theme song for the drama “Gibo to Musume no Blues” starring Haruka Ayase.

Many people were likely moved by how the grand, love-filled track resonated with the drama’s story.

It’s thanks to Seiji Kameda’s craftsmanship that MISIA’s rich, warm vocals feel even bigger.

Although this was Kameda’s first time working on a MISIA project, the flawless finish that never betrays that fact moved many listeners.

Anemone nikoensis (Ichirin-sō)Yamamoto Aya

Sayaka Yamamoto – “Ichirinsou” Music Video (Full)
Anemone nikoensis (Ichirin-sō)Yamamoto Aya

Sayaka Yamamoto is a singer who hails from massively popular idol groups like NMB48 and AKB48.

Ichirinsou is the first single she released after graduating from idol activities and fully launching her solo career.

Even during her idol days, Yamamoto was highly praised for her vocals.

She’s evolved from an idol into a full-fledged artist in one leap.

A song like Ichirinsou, in which she sings about wanting to be strong, carries a gentle, bright atmosphere that naturally lifts you up when you listen.

Keep an eye on Sayanee, who’s also popular among women who play music as a “guitar girl.”

To the Sun PrinceSekitori Hana

Hanatori Hana - To You, the Sun (Short ver.)
To the Sun PrinceSekitori Hana

Singer-songwriter Hana Sekitori, who once performed as a member of PlayYou.House, the predecessor of Goose house.

Her voice, with its slightly hushed, distinctive resonance, has the power to draw listeners into the world of the song from the very first note.

She made her major-label debut with this track in 2019, produced by Seiji Kameda—who also appears to be the one playing bass on the recording.

With drummer Kaasuke Nakamura also on board, it’s a standout track crafted by an all-star production team.