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The fiery soul and the roots of folk felt in Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s classic song

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi continues to breathe a fiery soul into the Japanese music scene.

Since his 1977 debut, he has freely expressed profound messages through his powerful voice and moving lyrics.

The hope embedded in “Kampai” and “Himawari,” the heartrending feelings in “Gekiai,” and the deep love for “Family”—each song carries messages that continue to resonate with our lives.

Here, we present the gems of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s music, forged as he has carved out new horizons with a vocal style often described as a cry from the soul.

The fiery soul and the roots of folk felt in Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s masterpieces (41–50)

It doesn’t matter if it’s clumsy or awkward. What’s important is that I want to convey my feelings to you—this pure emotion, and nothing else.Nagabuchi Tsuyoshi

These are the words of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi, a singer who has been active ever since his debut in 1977.

He teaches us that what truly matters in conveying your feelings is simply how strongly you want to communicate them; even if you can’t speak well, that alone will surely get your feelings across.

The fiery spirit and the roots of folk felt in Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s masterpieces (51–60)

cherry blossomNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

It’s a masterpiece that exudes the melancholy of a man feeling lonely on a night by himself.

It’s a song by Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi, a singer-songwriter from Kagoshima Prefecture, included on his 21st album “FRIENDS,” released in 2009.

There are times when you catch yourself thinking, “I’m jealous of the way that person lives,” right? And compared to that, you end up sinking into self-loathing.

It’s a piercing ballad that traces memories while reflecting on the night cherry blossoms.

Be sure to listen to it on a spring evening while taking a walk.

It’s not the bottom of the ninth inning in life yet.Nagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi – Yuji (from ARENA TOUR 2010-2011 TRY AGAIN)
It's not the bottom of the ninth inning in life yet.Nagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Life still has plenty left; we’re not playing a dead rubber, nor are we nearing the bottom of the ninth! From here, we can turn things around as much as we want! These are words that rouse everyone.

It’s fine to give up when you die—until then, you’ve got to keep running.

That’s what they make you feel.

SUPER STARNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

It may be one of the lesser-known songs among Nagabuchi’s works, but it’s known as the theme song for the drama “Oyako Game,” in which he starred.

It’s an up-tempo track, so it’s easy to get into.

If you sing this song, it will definitely bring back the scene with Mario from Oyako Game.

Rainy ArashiyamaNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Arashiyama in the Rain (Cover, Audio: Live Guitar + Programming)
Rainy ArashiyamaNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

“Ame no Arashiyama” was Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s debut single, released on February 25, 1977.

Back then, Nagabuchi had a strong folk influence, and unlike now, he was slender with a clear, translucent singing voice.

There’s even a rumor that he disliked that voice so much he gargled alcohol to ruin his throat…

Tokyo Youth Dawn StoryNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi – Tokyo Youth Sunrise Story (from “ACOUSTIC LIVE Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi Tour 2013”)
Tokyo Youth Dawn StoryNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

A song I used to listen to a lot while driving.

Before I knew it, every time the chorus came on, I found myself singing along, and even as someone from Tokyo I sang like I totally got it (lol).

This song is an upbeat, positive track that really sticks in your head.

He-La He-LaNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

A song that candidly expresses the loneliness and distrust hidden deep in the heart.

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s distinctive voice brilliantly captures the complexity of human relationships.

Included on the August 1987 album “LICENSE,” this track lays bare the struggle with society.

The ironic words connected to the title are repeated, evoking the ironies of life.

The lyrics, carried by a powerful rhythm, are sure to resonate deeply with people living in modern society.

Give it a listen when you want to express your feelings honestly or when you’re troubled by your sense of distance from society.