Kenji Ozawa Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

The Reason We Set Out on a JourneyOzawa Kenji1rank/position

Kenji Ozawa – The Reason We Set Out on a Journey (Single Edit)

When those dazzling horns ring out in the intro, your heart starts to race and you feel a touch of bittersweetness, don’t you? The lyrics, sprinkled with words like “Tokyo Tower” and “airport,” are full of a tenderness that seems to affirm even the loneliness of parting.

Included on the classic 1994 album LIFE and later released as a single in 1996 as the theme song for the drama Shota no Sushi, this track also features a memorable phrase borrowed from a Paul Simon song, and it continues to be loved as a signature Shibuya-kei anthem.

It’s perfect for listening while thinking of friends or lovers far away, and it’s sure to give a fresh, gentle push to anyone setting off on a spring journey!

LovelyOzawa Kenji2rank/position

LOVELY by Kenji Ozawa

This is one of Kenji Ozawa’s signature songs from the album “LIFE,” released in August 1994, depicting the joy of love and the pleasures of everyday life.

Carried by a light, sprightly rhythm and a vibrant melody, it conveys the exhilaration of a protagonist falling in love.

Members of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra also took part in the recording, with the brass adding a lively sense of motion.

After appearing on the album, it was released as a single in November of the same year and has been cherished by many listeners.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to feel the spark of new love and the brilliance of life.

I can’t say goodbye.Ozawa Kenji3rank/position

Kenji Ozawa – I Can’t Say Goodbye

This song was released in 1995 as the tenth single.

It was also used in a commercial for Morinaga’s chocolate “DARS.” The lyrics vividly depict detailed scenes, making it easy to picture what’s being seen and, in turn, to empathize with the song’s characters.

The light, breezy sound paired with everyday imagery evokes a sense of savoring the small, ordinary happiness found in daily life.

The cutting guitar riff heard in the intro and the bridge is borrowed from Michael Jackson’s “Black or White.” It’s such a distinctive sound that it’s likely to catch your attention the moment you hear it.

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kappamaki

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Strong feelings, strong loveOzawa Kenji4rank/position

Ozawa Kenji – Metropolitan Love Affair (Lyric Video)

Kenji Ozawa is a singer-songwriter from Kanagawa who also made his mark as a member of Flipper’s Guitar.

Among his many songs, the one that really boosts your driving mood is “Tsuyoi Kimochi, Tsuyoi Ai” (“Strong Feelings, Strong Love”).

Its glamorous melody, opening with strings and chorus, leaves a vivid impression.

Riding on a brisk, upbeat rhythm, his freewheeling vocals unfold to full effect.

With a danceable beat that fits any driving scene from morning to night, it’s irresistible music that makes your body and heart sway—a dance classic loved across generations.

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mutō

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Thrilling Uplifting StreetOzawa Kenji5rank/position

Kenji Ozawa – Thrilling, Bubbly Street

This single was released in 1995.

It was also used as the opening theme for COUNT DOWN TV.

The song as a whole evokes a happy vibe similar to the popular track Lovely.

Although the title is unique, the lyrics make it clear that the song expresses the very same bubbly excitement the title suggests.

Even within the rapid-fire, tightly packed words, there are pleasing sounds and playful touches scattered throughout, making the fun of the song come through loud and clear.

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kappamaki

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Serenade of the Ginkgo AvenueOzawa Kenji6rank/position

Stardust Rendezvous (2024 Remaster)

This song appears toward the end of Kenji Ozawa’s classic album LIFE, released in August 1994.

Unlike the album’s overall pop image, it has a distinct flavor—an acoustic resonance that really hits home, a serenade perfect for autumn.

It stirs an achingly bittersweet feeling, as if you’re walking down a golden tree-lined avenue, tracing the memories of a love that has passed.

That warm yet heart-tightening sensation is the very essence of a page from youth.

The track is also known for having a live recording from the Budokan included on the 1995 single Sayonara Nante Ienai yo.

It’s the perfect number for a night when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood.

Good night, kitten!Ozawa Kenji7rank/position

Kenji Ozawa Good night, little kitten!

A song packed with Ozaken’s charm and a fan favorite.

“Good Night, Kitten” is included on the 1994 album LIFE.

When he appeared on TV and such, he used to call his girlfriend “kitten,” which became a talking point and kind of a running joke back then (lol).

It’s a sweet track with that unmistakable Ozaken flair—one you’ll want to keep on repeat—and, just like the title suggests, it’s perfect for listening before bed to drift off comfortably.

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utatane

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Riding in a Corolla IIOzawa Kenji8rank/position

Riding in a Corolla II by Kenji Ozawa (lyrics in detail included)

Kenji Ozawa, a singer-songwriter who was active in the 1990s.

He’s famous for “Konya wa Boogie Back,” but his own songs are characterized by a languid, ennui-tinged style.

Among his tracks, the one I especially recommend is Karolla II ni Notte.

The song has a narrow vocal range and a very relaxed tempo, so anyone can easily aim for a high score.

There are quite a few sustained notes, so just be mindful of your breathing.

Since it doesn’t demand much volume, even those who aren’t confident in their lung capacity can sing it with ease.

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Ryo

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weather divinationOzawa Kenji9rank/position

weather divination

This is the solo debut single by singer-songwriter Kenji Ozawa, who made his debut as a member of Flipper’s Guitar before their sudden breakup announcement in 1991 and was later hailed as the “Prince of Shibuya-kei.” Released on July 21, 1993, its simple sound—distinct from Flipper’s Guitar’s musical style—became a hot topic.

Built on an ensemble with an urban atmosphere and a unique sense of laid-back ease, it’s easy to see how it captivated young listeners at the time.

It’s a light yet richly layered number that encapsulates the musicality and direction of Kenji Ozawa as an artist.

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Hoshino Takashi

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In spring, I think of you.Ozawa Kenji10rank/position

Kenji Ozawa – Thinking of You in Spring

With the surprise of “Why?”, Flipper’s Guitar disbanded, followed by a whirlwind of solo activity—no matter the era, Kenji Ozawa’s presence always draws attention.

This is one of his hidden gems.

It may lack the flashiness of smash hits like “Lovely” or “Riding in a Corolla II,” but it carries a mysterious atmosphere that seeps into the listener’s heart every time you hear it.

Are the sensitive lyrics—open to many interpretations, whether they read like a chronicle of one’s own funeral or like scenes from a happy life with a loved one—part of Ozaken’s magic? The song’s structure is anything but conventional, and it’s packed with the essence of the Ozaken we were obsessed with in our youth.

It’s a song I have a bit of a soft spot for—perfect for singing alone at karaoke!