Kazuyoshi Saito’s masterpieces and popular songs

Ai StilOkamura Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Okamura – “Ai Still” Music Video

This song poignantly portrays a man’s lingering feelings for a lost love.

Marked by a lively rhythm and roaring guitars, it was released in March 2024 by Okamura-Kazuyoshi, a new unit formed by Yasuyuki Okamura and Kazuyoshi Saito.

It carefully depicts the acceptance of a reality that can never be reclaimed, even as it celebrates happy memories of the past and the enduring beauty of a former lover.

As the third installment in a five-month consecutive digital release series, it drew considerable attention.

It’s sure to resonate with anyone seeking to heal the pain of heartbreak or struggling with love.

Put on your headphones and immerse yourself.

I want to be kinder.Saitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – I Want to Be Kind [Live at Nippon Budokan 2012.2.11]

A rock number widely known in living rooms across Japan as the theme song for “Kaseifu no Mita.” The lyric “We weren’t born in a loveless age” is especially striking.

This song and “Zutto Suki Datta” have PVs that pay homage to Beatles live performances, and this time Kazuyoshi Saito plays the role of John Lennon.

HummingbirdSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Hummingbird [Music Video Short ver.]

In Japanese, a hummingbird is called a hachidori, a bird that can hover in place by flapping its wings rapidly like a bee.

Rather than sulking and staying stuck in the same spot, it’s an anthem to flap your wings and say “serves you right” to that gloomy version of yourself.

In the music video, I’m playing a Gibson guitar model called the Hummingbird.

Very, very strongSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Very Very Strong ~ Eine Kleine [Music Video Short ver.]

Artist: This is Kazuyoshi Saito, also known for his friendship with author Kotaro Isaka.

Isaka decided to switch careers and become a writer inspired by one of Saito’s songs, but this track is a collaboration in the opposite direction—drawn from Isaka’s work.

The near-rap stream of words is striking, but the backing’s crunchy guitar tone is absolutely killer.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it a textbook Telecaster sound—so satisfying that it’s essential listening not just for singer-songwriters, but for guitarists as well.

The Beatles I saw were inside the TV.Saitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – The Beatles I Saw Were on TV – Solo Acoustic Performance

Their memorable debut single from 1993.

That said, it’s by no means a flashy song—nonchalant without being indifferent, blessed without feeling fulfilled, critical of nostalgia yet respectful of the Beatles.

It’s a subtly enigmatic track, and it’s curious how thoroughly it still feels like Secchan.

Happy Breakfast, Boring DinnerSaitō Kazuyoshi

Happy Breakfast, Boring Dinner / Kazuyoshi Saito

Over a steady, understated tempo, wordplay-like lyrics unfold—at first it seems plain, but it’s a sleeper track that grows on you.

It’s also famous as the song that inspired author Kotaro Isaka to quit his job and become a writer.

The lyrics are hard to grasp on a casual listen, but once you realize that a certain line in the middle is picturing Keith Richards, it suddenly makes perfect sense.

Bottomless beautySaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – “Bottomless Beauty” Music Video

A track where Kazuyoshi Saito’s refreshing acoustic guitar tones and uplifting lyrics resonate comfortably.

Featured on the album “PINEAPPLE,” it was also used as the new commercial song for Megmilk Snow Brand.

Depicting a woman striving to live true to herself each day, the piece was reportedly inspired by women working in diverse fields.

The lyric “Even this vast ocean lies in the palm of your hand” conveys the empowering message of carving your own path through life.

Released in April 2023, this song is sure to give you a gentle push forward.