KAN's supreme pop music, ballads, and hidden gems

MayumiKAN

Mayumi

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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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An unusual lifeKAN

A Rare Life — KAN

“A Rare Life” is a song that soothes the heart every time you listen to it.

The piano melody—KAN’s signature—shines brilliantly here as well, while his warm, comfortable vocals gently enfold the listener.

The lyrics delicately portray small moments of everyday life, each one resonating deeply.

Alongside the autobiographical words, playful sounds are sprinkled throughout, revealing KAN’s sense of humor.

Moreover, the universally relatable language further enhances the song’s appeal.

Standing by the listener and at times offering courage, “A Rare Life” is sure to become something special in our everyday lives.

My favorite person in the worldKAN

My favorite person in the world

“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.

Tokyo LifeKAN

Tokyo Life

It’s a fleeting number with a faint hint of winter in the air, released in 1989 as the fifth single.

The song’s lyrics were once printed in their entirety in the manga Tsurumoku Bachelor Dormitory, so people who read the manga might find it familiar.

It portrays a week in Tokyo, and those who have moved to the city or come from the countryside may find themselves relating even more deeply.

KAN himself moved up from Fukuoka to make music, didn’t he? It’s a song that stays close to feelings of uneasy days, the frustration when things don’t go well, and the anxiety of the unfamiliar.

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KEI

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Even 50 years from nowKAN

Even 50 years from now

The gentle tone of the piano softly resonates in the ears, and when “50 Years Later” is played, you’re enveloped by a sense of calm.

KAN’s uniquely warm vocals make you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and offer a quietly intimate moment.

The lyrics, simple yet deeply resonant, have a beauty that invites you to savor them slowly.

This song, which carries a reassuring presence not only in love but in many scenes of life, touches the listener’s heartstrings and conveys a message that never fades with time.

KAN’s music will resonate in your heart and enrich your spirit.

Love will winKAN

Aiwa Katsu

A mega-hit that symbolizes the era, especially for those in their 50s.

As you know, it’s KAN’s eighth single, released in 1990.

Its straightforward lyrics—“Nothing is greater than love”—feel timeless, making it a song that captivates even non-fans.

It has continued to be played and sung across generations on TV and in commercials.

Records show it was released on 8 cm CD singles and cassette singles, which really gives you a sense of the times.

It was used as an insert song on the TV show ‘Hochan’s Yamada Katsutenai Television,’ and if you’re right in that core generation, there are probably many who watched it every week!

Bye-byeKAN

Bye Bye Bye (studio recording)

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.