KAN's supreme pop music, ballads, and hidden gems
Singer-songwriter KAN, known for his signature song “Ai wa Katsu” (“Love Will Win”).
He is passionately supported by artists and public figures such as aiko and Mr.
Children’s Kazutoshi Sakurai, and his gentle voice and deeply resonant lyrics have encouraged countless listeners.
This article introduces some of KAN’s wonderful songs.
While KAN is strongly associated with “great songs,” he actually has many tracks that are comical, playful, and fun.
Above all, his music brings peace to the heart.
He passed away in November 2023, but KAN’s beautiful music will live on in our hearts.
May the greatest pop music live forever!
KAN's Finest Pop Music & Ballads & Hidden Gems (1–10)
MEMORIES OF FUTUREKAN
Mr.
KAN says he was asked to compose the music for director Nobuhiko Obayashi’s film “Okashina Futari” before his debut.
True talent really does get discovered wherever it is.
Here is one of KAN’s grand, talent-filled works: “MEMORIES OF FUTURE.” Its seemingly endless intro evokes outer space and cranks up your expectations for the song to the max.
As for the lyrics… this is a track I really want you to hear without spoilers, so please check them with your own ears.
It’s the final track on the 2011 album “Terebi no Naka ni” (In the Television).
If you’d like, together.KAN
“If You’d Like, Together” — the title alone says it all for this warm mid-tempo number.
Released as a single in 2010, it features a comfortable eight-beat rhythm, with KAN’s gentle vocals and lyrics resonating throughout.
KAN is often associated with “great songs,” and this track is packed with everything that makes his music so good.
It’s a long piece, but you’re wrapped in such a happy feeling that you hardly notice.
The little “Hai!” call-and-response is just perfect, too.
A universal love song that would fit beautifully at a wedding.
A truly wonderful track.
ExtraKAN
An exquisite piano ballad that layers earnest feelings onto the idea of an extra.
It’s included on the 2020 album “23-sai” (Age 23).
Extras are temporary performers who often appear in films and music; they may have few lines, but they are vital to making a work come together.
KAN’s gentle voice and words feel like being wrapped in kindness.
Each line resonates, as if affirming the value of simply “being,” even without the spotlight or a defined meaning.
It’s a bittersweet yet heartwarming masterpiece.
I love it.
Curry and riceKAN
This song could be called a hidden gem that fans love.
Since it’s a song themed around curry and rice—a food everyone likes—it feels a bit unexpected, but it’s strange how, when he sings it, it comes across like a love song.
Above all, he delivers great vocals even live.
SongwriterKAN
A soulful song by KAN that portrays a songwriter’s reason for living.
It’s especially popular among fans and was released as a single in 1997.
I’m sure there are people who have a special attachment to it.
It’s such a wonderful song.
You can feel the musical sensibility likely influenced by Billy Joel and the warmth of KAN’s personality.
The lyrics, filled with the sentiments of a piano man, are sure to move you.
It’s a signature masterpiece that symbolizes KAN the songwriter.
RegretsKAN
A medium-tempo number that paints a bittersweet portrait of youth.
Released in 1989 as the sixth single.
It’s a breakup song with a poignant, tightening melody line and lyrics interwoven with English that leave a strong impression, evoking the joy of first love and a feeling like you could return to those nostalgic days.
It’s nostalgic and seems to sit gently alongside all kinds of regrets.
Though it predates “Ai wa Katsu,” it’s a masterpiece overflowing with KAN’s charm.
Even if you don’t know it, I really hope you give it a listen.
MayumiKAN
A track released as a single from the eighth album, TOKYOMAN, which came out in 1993, and also used as an image song for a carbonated beverage commercial.
It’s characterized by verses that feel like spoken address and a melodious chorus.
The chorus was originally written for a different song, and the two were forcefully combined into one piece; yet the way the contrasting atmospheres of the verse and chorus enhance each other showcases KAN’s pop sensibilities, making this a hidden gem.
The next time I see youKAN
KAN’s “Kondo Kimi ni Attara” is a song where a memorable melody intersects with lyrics that touch the heart.
Its simple yet profound message is one reason it’s loved by listeners across generations.
While painting scenes that feel like they could exist in a corner of everyday life, it sings a story anyone can relate to.
The balance of nostalgia and freshness is exquisite, revealing something new with every listen.
Gently nestling close to the heart, this song is like a small light quietly illuminating hope for tomorrow.
Bye-byeKAN
The best ballad included on the 15th album, “If You’d Like, Together.” Many artists use parting as a motif, but KAN’s interpretation—“Bye-bye isn’t a word that means a farewell forever”—somehow brings comfort.
It’s a good song to listen to when you’re feeling a bit lonely, like after a breakup or when you’re homesick.
Actually, this song “Bye Bye Bye” has both a studio recording version and a live version.
Try listening to both and enjoy the big and subtle differences.
My favorite person in the worldKAN
“The Person I Love Most in the World” warms my heart every time I listen.
KAN’s songs gently melt into the listener’s heart, giving courage and comfort.
This track is no exception: with a simple yet moving melody and lyrics that evoke the preciousness of people, it soothes the weariness of everyday life.
The piano never steals the spotlight, serving instead to highlight the beauty of the voice and the words.
This kind of natural, stripped-down performance is perfect for expressing feelings toward family, a lover, or a dear friend.
It’s a wonderful song that will be loved across time.