RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

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 Friendly Classics and Popular Songs (21–30)

early springNakanishi Keizō

It’s included on the third album, “Starting Over,” released on March 23, 1994, and it’s a medium-tempo love song.

Its light-footed love lyrics give listeners a refreshing feeling and a resolve in love.

At the same time, it’s a song that makes you realize how significant and weighty your presence is to me.

Report a problem

Why GoodbyeNakanishi Keizō

Keizo Nakanishi – Why Goodbye (1995)
Why GoodbyeNakanishi Keizō

This song was used as the ending theme for TBS’s “Broadcaster.” The male-female harmonies feel wonderful and bring to mind Michael Jackson’s ballads.

With Keizo Nakanishi’s vocal ability and expressive power, it sounds cool even with English lyrics!

Report a problem

Keizo Nakanishi’s friendly hit and popular songs (31–40)

As time goes byNakanishi Keizō

As Time Goes By / Kenji Sawada (cover)
As time goes byNakanishi Keizō

This song, included on the album “Kesshō” (Crystal), was originally released as a single by Julie, a.k.a.

Kenji Sawada.

The lyrics are by Yū Aku, and the music is by Katsuo Ōno.

Many musicians have covered this song, but I personally discovered that Keizo Nakanishi’s voice is surprisingly similar to Julie’s! What do you think? Don’t they sound alike?!

Report a problem

Eternal Missed ConnectionsNakanishi Keizō

With its upbeat, high-energy track and his funky, dance-like vocals, this song irresistibly gets your body moving! It’s included on his second album, “Yell,” released on March 25, 1992.

I really admire how cool the chorus vocals sound and the way he delivers the English lyrics in the hook!

Report a problem

Tangerine EyesNakanishi Keizō

This is the debut single by singer-songwriter Keizo Nakanishi, who is also known for creating numerous classic songs such as his signature track “Woman” and “Choo Choo TRAIN,” which he wrote for ZOO.

Released on March 25, 1991, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Kimi to Itsumademo.” The arrangement is outstanding, evoking an R&B vibe that wasn’t very common at the time, with its distinctive synth-bass timbre, breezy shuffle beat, and hooky chord progression.

It’s a highly polished pop tune featuring a distinctive vocal tone and a soulful ensemble that feels effortlessly satisfying.

Hoshino Takashi
Report a problem

2 A.M.Nakanishi Keizō

As the title suggests a sense of time, the track also somehow carries a mood that sounds like the rhythm of a second hand.

It’s a song where his voice seems to seep into the kind of stillness that makes you wonder if you’re the only person left in the world.

Report a problem

FEEL MENakanishi Keizō

Compared to the image people often have of Keizo Nakanishi, the arrangement here feels a bit more restrained.

That said, as with all his songs, the groove in this one is on a whole different level.

You can tell he’s feeling the rhythm in his body as he sings.

That’s probably why listeners can’t help but start dancing, too!

Report a problem
Read morechevron_right
Precious LoveNakanishi Keizō