Keizo Nakanishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

As time goes byNakanishi Keizō31rank/position

As Time Goes By / Kenji Sawada (cover)

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?!

The Last RainNakanishi Keizō32rank/position

A Tear-Jerking Song: Yasushi Nakanishi “The Last Rain” J-R&B Version Full with Lyrics, Highest Audio Quality MV / “Saigo no Ame” Yasushi Nakanishi Lyrics Full / Kenta Kodera

For many years, Yasushi Nakanishi’s Saigo no Ame has been synonymous with men’s breakup songs.

It still enjoys strong popularity among men and is supported by younger generations as a karaoke staple.

Since many artists have covered it, the song is well-known across generations.

Eternal Missed ConnectionsNakanishi Keizō33rank/position

Keizo Nakanishi — Eternal Misdirection

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!

Eternal NameNakanishi Keizō34rank/position

Keizo Nakanishi — Eternal Name

For a Keizo Nakanishi song, this one keeps the vocals relatively low; while his high tones are captivating, the gentle, resonant lows give it a calm, reassuring feel.

That said, right before the final chorus you still get to fully enjoy his signature voice! Personally, I’ve never found a song that mentions “shooting star” to be a miss.

shooting starNakanishi Keizō35rank/position

Shooting Star / Keizo Nakanishi (Released on 2020-09-09 by TAO LIFE RECORDS. TLR-0001)

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.

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KEI

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Tangerine EyesNakanishi Keizō36rank/position

Tangerine eyes

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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Light it at nightNakanishi Keizō37rank/position

Keizo Nakanishi - Light the Night on Fire

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.”

Love is a Heart of FireNakanishi Keizō38rank/position

Keizo Nakanishi / Love Is the Heart of Fire

Although it’s medium-tempo, as you’d expect from Keizo Nakanishi, it has great rhythm and an infectious groove.

The chorus gives a huge sense of uplift that makes you want to sing along with everyone, and it almost feels like listening to Western pop.

It’s the kind of song I’d love to keep on repeat while driving!

Wish Upon a StarNakanishi Keizō39rank/position

Keizo Nakanishi - 04 - When You Wish Upon a Star (Live 1993)

The regret of “Why couldn’t I do it back then?” is, in a way, a life theme everyone shares.

It’s easy to call it a matter of imagination, but you can’t truly feel it until later, right? At times like that, it seems all we can do is wish upon a star.

That’s what this song is about!