Keizo Nakanishi’s approachable hit songs and fan favorites
Singer-songwriter Keizo Nakanishi is known for composing signature songs like “Woman,” ZOO’s hit “Choo Choo TRAIN” (later covered by EXILE and a social phenomenon), and Black Biscuits’ “Timing.” His clear, resonant voice blends elements of Black music such as R&B and soul, while remaining catchy, approachable, and effortlessly cool—one of his key charms.
His 2006 song “Boyoyon March,” released for NHK’s Okaasan to Issho, is also beloved.
Here, we’ll introduce Keizo Nakanishi’s celebrated and popular tracks that embody his motto of “bringing energy through song.”
Keizo Nakanishi’s approachable classic and popular songs (1–10)
Boyoyon MarchNakanishi Keizō
“Boyoyon March,” a song beloved by children on NHK’s flagship program “Okaasan to Issho,” keeps winning hearts.
You might be surprised to learn it was created by the person behind “Choo Choo TRAIN,” but they share a catchy quality that makes you want to hum along.
Sung by Yuzo Imai and Shoko Haida, and later carried on by successive “older brother” and “older sister” singers on the show, it’s a track packed with energy.
Beyond its cute sound, the upbeat, encouraging lyrics and the free, marching feel of the music are incredibly uplifting! It’s a masterpiece that resonates with adults too—comedian Hitori Gekidan has even called it a “support for the heart.”
You And INakanishi Keizō
This eighth single features a lively, funky arrangement.
Its technical, rhythmically intricate vocals are captivating, though they seem quite challenging to sing at a typical karaoke session.
The song is themed around “you and me,” portraying a world that only the two of them understand, one that no one else can enter.
Choo Choo TRAINNakanishi Keizō
Keizo Nakanishi composed “Choo Choo Train,” which became an even bigger hit after being covered by Zoo and EXILE, and along with “Timing,” it can be called one of his two explosive smash hits.
In Zoo’s version, he himself participated as a backing vocalist.
Not only is he a songwriter, but his vocal ability is outstanding, and he deserves greater recognition as an artist.
A.C.E.Nakanishi Keizō
It’s a song that I can’t help but be reminded of the Jackson 5’s “ABC”! You could even call it an homage.
Even if you try to imitate it, it’s usually hard to pull off, but with Keizo Nakanishi’s sense of rhythm and vocal ability, a song with this vibe can look so cool—so envy-inducing!
Glory DaysNakanishi Keizō
A track included on the album “Steps,” it was used as a commercial song for Yoyogi Seminar.
With its up-tempo arrangement, the refreshing sense of speed is delightful, and the solo in the interlude—with a tone like a vibraphone—sounds really cool! The use of brass and strings is also one of the hallmark features of his music!
RAINSCAPENakanishi Keizō
This is a track that grabs your ears with its funky guitar performance.
Keizo Nakanishi’s vocals also make abundant use of his signature high tones, resulting in a melody brimming with his charm.
As with this song, many of his tracks pair even sad and heart-wrenching themes with upbeat, groovy arrangements, don’t they?
Next dreamNakanishi Keizō
It is included on the album Gene, released on July 30, 2003.
The album title Gene and this song’s title, Next Dream, feel very closely linked.
It’s a song that reflects what remains, what we leave behind, and the way I live and my attitude.
shooting starNakanishi Keizō
A love song with a grand sense of scale.
Released from TAO LIFE RECORDS, the label Nakanishi himself launched in 2020.
Its lyrics, which sing of the preciousness of everyday life, offer comfort to those who have lost someone dear or are grappling with unjust hardships.
In Japan, it’s said that wishes come true when made upon a “shooting star,” and this song, infused with such earnest longing, resonates deeply through its emotive, distinctly Japanese wa-inspired melody and Keizo Nakanishi’s warm vocals.
Kiss,Merry X’masNakanishi Keizō
A medium-tempo number whose bouncing rhythm and distinctly Christmas-like jingle fills you with excitement.
Released as a single in 1994, it’s also included on the best-of album “SINGLES.” Yoshiyuki Sahashi’s sparkling arrangement is wonderful, giving it a sweet vibe.
It puts you in a lighthearted mood that makes you want to skip through festive city streets.
A romantic love song overflowing with feelings for someone special.
It’s highly recommended as a track to listen to before a date!
WomanNakanishi Keizō
Keizo Nakanishi’s biggest hit, “Woman,” was released in 1992.
Many people may also strongly associate it with the Camellia Diamond tie-in.
It’s an empowering song dedicated to women, with forward-looking lyrics and Nakanishi’s characteristically clear and warm vocals that resonate with the heart.
There are surely many moments when we hesitate to live honestly.
Especially for women, such situations can be particularly difficult, can’t they? This song stays close to those feelings and gives you the courage to take a step forward from the sense of hardship.