Keisuke Kuwata Talks ‘Akane-banashi’ Themes, Japanese-Western Fusion & Staying Relevant for 50 Years: Billboard Japan Monthly Interview

Keisuke Kuwata's new single, "Hitotarashi," was released on June 24 as the opening theme for anime series Akane-banashi, which is set in the world of rakugo—a traditional Japanese comic storytelling. This marks Kuwata's first time writing a song for a specific anime title. The 70-year-old vocalist of Southern All Stars has deepened his interest in traditional Japanese culture in recent years, and he drew from this fascination when composing the song.

Kuwata revealed that the project came together after his staff suggested he write the theme songs for Akane-banashi's manga. The series is about rakugo, and despite Kuwata's limited knowledge of the art form, he felt a connection to the project and agreed to take on the task. The staff also researched past anime theme song composition trends and asked Kuwata to consider the energy needed for an opening theme.

The title "Hitotarashi" comes from the verb "tarasu" (to beguile), which features a kanji character meaning "mad" alongside a speech radical. Kuwata believes that music and rakugo have always been linked to individuals outside mainstream society, and the heroine Akane represents this sentiment. Both rakugo and rock share a common thread, as they provide an outlet for the audience's frustrations and desires.

Kuwata's love for Western music developed during his student days, when he dreamed of studying English and moving to places like Los Angeles or New York. However, he never fulfilled this ambition. Despite this, he has always admired the processed culture of Western music, such as Japanese-style spaghetti Napolitan and hamburger steak, known as "yoshoku." He hopes that his music can also gain popularity among international audiences.