Kai Kubota is a singer-songwriter and rapper, who started his music career in 2017 by doing freestyle rap along and writing lyrics. Kubota began garnishing attnetion to himself due to lyrics as they contain a wide range of literary and musical influences ranging from Hip-Hop, R&B, and Rock to pop. In December 2019, Kubota released his debut EP “Myojo”. Two songs in particular, “Seikatsu” and “Haru Ni Binetsu” would go on to reach over 3 million views on YouTube. He then released his first album, Raikou, in April of 2021, and his digital singles “Sunset City” and “X-Friend” which released shortly thereafter. Kubota has gone on to release 18 singles digitally and just relased his second album Henji wairanai in October of 2023.

While being relatively young and new to the Japanese music industry, Kubota brings an interesting sound that has captivated me since I first heard him. In particular, his song “nighteater” off his latest album really grabbed my attention the first time I listend to it. “nighteater” shows off his rap skills such as the intensity in which he can weave words together; which to me, is rather impressive. However, his rap is just one side of his music; with the track “Sunset City” you hear a completely different side of what Kubota is capable of. “Sunset City” is a laid-back number that focuses on his vocals which includes a memorable composition that puts you in a good mood, such as wanting to lay back and enjoy the city skyline. Both “Sunset City” and “nighteater” are on his latest album Henji wairanai, but Kubota also has gems like “Haru Ni Binetsu” included on his first album Raikou, that gives off a stupendous synth sound to it.

Kai Kubota posts all of his latest news on both his official website and his X page. Lastly, be sure to check out his song “Sunset City” posted in the video below.