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.”
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Keizo Nakanishi’s approachable classic and popular songs (1–10)
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.
Sleepless longingNakanishi Keizō
I want to be wrapped in Keizo Nakanishi’s singing voice! For fans like that—and for you who want to immerse yourself in a love ballad—this is the perfect song.
We’ve all had sleepless nights thinking about someone.
That tight, heart-clenching, almost bursting feeling comes through in this track too!
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.
Keizo Nakanishi’s friendly hit and popular songs (11–20)
A Whiter Shade of PaleNakanishi Keizō
A slightly bittersweet mid-tempo ballad that brings back old memories.
It’s included on the third album, “Steps,” released in 1993.
Have you ever found that visiting a special place makes memories resurface vividly? The fleeting, beautiful lyrics about a summer farewell and the train-like sound evoke that nostalgic feeling.
And yet, there’s something surprisingly forward-looking about it, too.
As times change, the familiar places we know change as well.
This is a song that makes you want to stop by a place full of memories for the first time in a while.
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.
Only one loveNakanishi Keizō
Above all, it’s a song whose chorus melody and lyrics are irresistibly heartrending.
The lyrics throughout are rich in poetic expression as well, written by Masao Urino.
It’s the kind of song that makes you think, “It must feel amazing to sing it like this!” and feel a little envious.
The vocals’ steadily intensifying dynamics are also a must-hear!
Light it at nightNakanishi Keizō
Included on their third album, Steps, released in 1993, with lyrics penned by Reiko Yukawa.
This slightly adult, mood-rich medium-tempo ballad expresses passionate, aching feelings toward “you.” It’s a song that makes you picture a seafront view—like at some place called “___ Pier.”