Toshinobu Kubota’s iconic and popular songs
Let me introduce some songs by singer-songwriter Toshinobu Kubota, also known as the King of J-Soul.
Kubota has captivated many fans with R&B- and soul-based tracks such as “LA・LA・LA LOVE SONG” and “You were mine.” While his remarkable vocal ability is a major draw, his career in the music industry began when he signed with Kitty Music as a music producer, and even at a young age he was writing songs for multiple well-known artists.
Now, please enjoy the music of Toshinobu Kubota, who helped raise the profile of Black music in Japan.
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Toshinobu Kubota’s iconic and popular songs (21–30)
Always RemainKubota Toshinobu
A song by singer-songwriter Toshinobu Kubota, a leading figure in Japan’s R&B scene.
It depicts a warm love in which a cherished person transcends mere memories to live on forever in one’s heart.
The soulful vocals, expressing feelings that remain unchanged even when apart, melt gently into the slightly wistful air of autumn.
Released as a single from the album “As One” in November 2000, the track was used as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Hamidashi Keiji Jounetsu Kei.” A 2000s R&B ballad that tenderly embraces sentimental emotions.
Shot by a TIME Shower…Kubota Toshinobu
This song was released in 1986.
This video is footage from a 2012 live performance, arranged to suit the times.
In addition to Toshinobu Kubota’s outstanding vocals, the backing vocalists deliver powerful, captivating performances.
The result is a funky, groovy rendition.
Downtown of DespairKubota Toshinobu
Released on June 21, 1986.
It’s his debut single.
Even before his major-label debut, he had been writing songs for idol singers such as Toshihiko Tahara, but as a singer he was still unknown.
In an era when 80s J-pop was dominated by kayōkyoku, there was little understanding of Kubota’s musicality, and his support was limited to a small niche.
On the Oricon charts, it peaked at No.
53, with total sales of 11,000 copies.
CymbalsKubota Toshinobu
Released in 1997, it’s a heartfelt slow ballad that truly reflects his style.
This gentle, bittersweet song has moved many listeners—comments like “I got goosebumps!” and “It made me cry” keep pouring in.
If you’re intrigued, check it out right now.
Keep Holding YouKubota Toshinobu
It’s a global track created in collaboration with the Korean singer Sunmin.
It was used as the theme song for the film “Sinking of Japan.” Written and composed by Toshinobu Kubota, the song is grand and powerful, yet tinged with a certain fragility.
The duo’s overwhelming vocal prowess captivates the listener.
Eternal WingsKubota Toshinobu
The B-side of the single “You Were Mine,” released in February 1988.
It was used as the theme song for JAL’s Okinawa campaign, and, as the title suggests, it has a grand, expansive feel.
Although it’s included on the best-of album “the BADDEST,” it stands out with a presence that rivals the other tracks despite being a B-side.
Bring me up !Kubota Toshinobu
A track used as the image song for the Volkswagen up! commercial.
Released on May 22, 2013 as the 38th single.
It’s a pop dance number with catchy “pon-pon” lyrics.
Be sure to check out the upbeat backing and impressive vocals.