Masterpieces and popular songs by Keisuke Kuwata

Traces of someone’s windKuwata Keisuke

Traces of someone's wind

UNIQLO LifeWear commercial “Picture Book Specialty Store” 30-second version

It’s a film depicting the gentle interactions among people in a specialty picture-book store, expressing those tender exchanges in parallel with the soft, comfortable feel of Uniqlo’s Extra Fine line.

The warm smiles shown by the characters, including Haruka Ayase, further enhance the cozy atmosphere of the visuals.

Emphasizing that commercial’s mood is Keisuke Kuwata’s “Dareka no Kaze no Ato,” a track from his 1988 release “Keisuke Kuwata.” The floating, seaside-evoking sound is striking, and a soothing kindness can be felt throughout.

Including the vocals, there’s also a refreshing air to it, making it a song that relaxes the listener’s heart.

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mirrorKuwata Keisuke

mirror

UNIQLO LifeWear commercial "A Little Further" 30-second version

This commercial features Haruka Ayase spontaneously setting off on a trip and introduces UNIQLO’s Ultra Light Down that supports her journey.

You can sense both the comfortable feel that helps when there’s a slight chill and the easy portability of its lightweight design from her relaxed expression.

Adding color to the CM is Keisuke Kuwata’s “Kagami” (“Mirror”), a track included on his 1994 album Solitary Sun.

Its light, acoustic guitar–centered sound is striking, and it really underscores the laid-back atmosphere.

Also noteworthy are the almost tossed-off vocal delivery and the lyricism that seems to emphasize resonance; together with the sound, they make the breezy quality stand out even more.

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MICOKuwata Keisuke

MICO Southern All Stars cover.

The song “MICO” was written by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars for Mieko Hirota, whom he had been a fan of since childhood.

The line “If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be singing now” strongly conveys Kuwata’s respect for Hirota.

In the song “Chako no Kaigan Monogatari,” there’s also the lyric “I truly love you, Mico,” showing just how much he adored Mieko Hirota.

A distant street cornerKuwata Keisuke

A Distant Street Corner (The Wanderin’ Street) Keisuke Kuwata cover

It’s a nostalgic piece that brings back memories.

It’s a solo song by Keisuke Kuwata, the vocalist of Southern All Stars, one of Japan’s leading rock bands.

It was included on the album “Keisuke Kuwata,” released in 1988.

Since it was used in a Fujifilm commercial, many people in their 50s likely find it nostalgic.

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One million years of happiness!!Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – 1,000,000 Years of Happiness!! (Short ver.)

The ending theme song of Chibi Maruko-chan, which brings a happy vibe to living rooms from 6 p.m.

on Sundays.

It’s a solo track by Keisuke Kuwata, the vocalist of Southern All Stars.

Elementary school students must have listened to this song a lot.

Be sure to sing it at karaoke!

Young PlazaKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Wakai Hiroba (Full ver. + “Garakuta” album trailer)

Keisuke Kuwata’s song “Wakai Hiroba” was used as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series “Hiyokko.” This year marks the 30th anniversary of Kuwata’s solo career.

People say he might appear every year, but especially with the morning drama connection this year, I really hope he performs “Wakai Hiroba.”

TSUNAMIKuwata Keisuke

Tsunami – Southern All Stars

This solo single by Keisuke Kuwata took the world by storm.

It was so popular that there’s hardly anyone who doesn’t know it.

Since it’s a song he performs as Keisuke Kuwata, not with Southern All Stars, I really want you to give it a listen.

Practice it and sing it at karaoke.