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 Best and Most Popular Songs (1–10)
MissingKubota Toshinobu
This is an immortal masterpiece included on the first album “SHAKE IT PARADISE,” released in September 1986.
Although it was never released as a single, it’s widely known as one of Toshinobu Kubota’s signature songs.
It portrays a poignant relationship between a man and a woman who are drawn to each other yet can never be together, rendered through a one-of-a-kind, soulful voice.
The more one wishes to forget, the stronger the feelings grow—the searing emotion tightens the listener’s chest.
On a night when your heart is troubled by an unrequited love, why not listen quietly on your own?
Cry On Your SmileKubota Toshinobu
This is a renowned ballad that tenderly yet poignantly captures the feelings of seeing a loved one off as they set out toward their dreams.
Released in October 1987, it became a milestone as the artist’s first entry into the Oricon Top 10.
Built on an R&B foundation, its beautiful melody is paired with lyrics filled with such deep affection that you find yourself in tears even within the other person’s smile—listening makes your chest tighten.
The emotionally overflowing ad-libbed outro is breathtaking, conveying irrepressible feelings that bring tears to your eyes.
Chosen as the theme song for the Toho film “Kamitsukitai,” it’s also included on the best-of album “the BADDEST.” When you listen to it as you cheer on someone dear at the start of a new chapter, it feels like a gentle push on the back.
LA LA LA Love SongKubota Toshinobu
A massive hit by Toshinobu Kubota, whose extraordinary vocal power and groove—rare even among Japanese artists—are truly captivating.
It was released in May 1996 as a collaboration with Naomi Campbell, who was then active as a fashion model.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Long Vacation,” starring Takuya Kimura and Tomoko Yamaguchi, it became a social phenomenon and sold over a million copies.
The song conveys the exhilaration of a love that begins to spin like a merry-go-round, along with a tenderness that feels like someone quietly holding an umbrella over your heart in the rain.
Its lyrics, which depict irreplaceable moments so happy that words are unnecessary, make it a perfect listen when spending time with someone special—perhaps deepening the bond between the two of you.
LOVE RAIN ~Rain of Love~Kubota Toshinobu
This is a stylish, passionate number that likens love overflowing from the depths of the heart to a pouring rain.
It’s a work by Toshinobu Kubota, known as a pioneer of R&B music in Japan, released as a single in June 2010.
The song was written specifically as the theme for the drama Moon Lovers, starring Takuya Kimura, and Kubota is said to have crafted the lyrics by overlaying his own emotions with those of the protagonist.
You can picture a romantic scene where rain falls as if blessing a couple who can no longer turn back.
The funky sound combined with Kubota’s sweet, soulful vocals makes your body move before you know it.
Perfect for savoring the exhilaration at the start of a romance.
You Go LadyKubota Toshinobu
This is a funky, upbeat number by Toshinobu Kubota that lightens the hearts of its listeners.
It embodies the artist’s message of “Ladies, don’t hold back—go for it!” and stands out as an empowering anthem that encourages you to move forward with confidence.
The rhythm that makes your body move and the positive message are sure to give you energy and courage.
Released in March 2018 as his 40th single, it was also featured in a commercial for KOSÉ’s ESPRIQUE.
The song was later included on the album BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE.
It’s perfect for starting a new day or for when you want to lift your spirits.
All conditioned things are impermanent.Kubota Toshinobu
This is a refined pop song by Toshinobu Kubota, a singer-songwriter who has pioneered Japan’s R&B scene.
It may be a warm anthem of encouragement that gently wraps around those striving toward their goals.
For those of us navigating a rapidly changing society, it seems to teach the importance of responding not with severity, but with kindness.
The track was released in June 2025, just ahead of the 40th anniversary of his debut, and it’s well known as the ending theme of the economic news program WBS.
It’s also included on the best-of album “THE BADDEST IV & Timeless Hits.” Listening at the end of the day might soothe a tired heart and make that first step toward tomorrow feel a little lighter.
the Beat of LifeKubota Toshinobu
This work resonates in your chest with a bold, warm beat that traces the long road of life.
Its grounded, heavy rhythm—like firmly planting your feet on the earth—leaves a strong impression.
The rich vocals gently remind you that the charm of life lies in days that don’t go according to plan, and that even past struggles can transform into strength for the future.
Released in June 2024, the song was created as the commercial theme for CITIZEN’s 100th anniversary watch collection.
Its message, aligned with the theme “Layers of Time,” warmly envelops the listener’s heart.
It’s a track with a quiet, steadfast power—one that gives you a gentle push when you’re uncertain, or offers a breather on a quiet night.