RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

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, and hidden gems (31–40)

Pop musicKAN

KAN 'Pop Music' Short Version
Pop musicKAN

An addictive disco tune with a sparkling rhythm.

It’s the 35th single, released in 2020.

The insanely catchy hook in the chorus is the best, and the 80s-flavored programmed sound gives it a pleasantly retro feel.

The choice of words is fun too! The dance choreography by Karco, who worked on Wink’s “Lonely Tropical Fish” and Shingo Mama’s “Ohayo Rock,” is also adorable.

It’s an uplifting number packed with KAN’s pop-ism!

Saint PetersburgKAN

Singer-songwriter KAN, known for his exceptional piano technique.

When you think of KAN, his bright expression and catchy lyrics really stand out! You can savor his strengths in depth in this track, “Sankt Petersburg.” The song is included on his 1998 album TIGERSONGWRITER.

It’s a distinctive piece filled with puns woven throughout the lyrics.

Be sure to check out the lyrics as well!

ReposeKAN

A ballad with lyrics written by Kazutoshi Sakurai of Mr.Children, included on the 2016 album “6×9=53.” The lyrics depict a fleeting atmosphere and inner conflict.

Life is a series of choices, and sometimes we make big mistakes.

But with the person you love by your side, there are things you can overcome.

Listening to Sakurai’s words and KAN’s singing makes you feel that everything has meaning, and that feeling can be saving.

Also, enjoy the different angle compared to KAN’s early masterpiece “Regrets.”

Unspoken I love youKAN

KAN / Unspoken 'I Love You' [With Lyrics]
Unspoken I love youKAN

A classic unrequited-love song by KAN, one of the foremost melody makers who created an ultra-famous, nationally beloved big tune—a top-tier pop star at every level, with expressive lyrics and an impeccable sense for fitting words to music.

His gentle, conversational words and humble phrases vividly evoke the pain of unrequited love, yet the light, upbeat, and bright melody will have you wanting to sing along before you know it.

This track is a refreshingly breezy unrequited-love song packed with KAN’s unique, almost magical charm.

In the Name of LoveKAN

KAN – In the Name of Love (1991)
In the Name of LoveKAN

This is a motivational song by KAN, famous for “Ai wa Katsu.” When times are tough or difficult, don’t you sometimes feel like you’re all alone? In truth, there are people around you who will support you, so you’re not by yourself.

This song encourages you by reminding you that you’re not alone, and that even if you fail, you can start over and change your future.

It was released in 1991 and was used as the theme song for the drama “Nekketsu! Shinnyū Shain Sengen” (Hot-Blooded! New Employee Declaration).

KAN also appeared in the drama as an actor.

KAN’s finest pop music, ballads, and hidden gems (41–50)

Autumn, by the Tama RiverKAN

When talking about 90s J-pop, KAN is an indispensable artist, isn’t he? This song is one of his hidden gems, included on the album “Yowai Otoko no Katai Ishi,” released in December 1993.

Set to beautiful piano arpeggios, it tells the story of someone who, by the banks of the Tama River in autumn, suddenly recalls a former lover.

Through depictions of everyday, modest scenes and a smiling face glimpsed in dreams, the song conveys not only a sense of poignancy but also a quiet encouragement.

KAN’s restrained vocals blend perfectly with the crisp autumn air, gently coloring a sentimental fall moment.

Hong Kong, SayonaraKAN

“Hong Kong SAYONARA” KAN from “TOKYOMAN”
Hong Kong, SayonaraKAN

This song marks a new direction for him, with a fresh programmed drum intro.

At the time, many artists began incorporating electronic rhythms as a new musical form.

It’s a slightly unusual ballad, which makes it especially engaging.