Koshi Inaba of B’z Exudes Unmatched Charisma in Casual T-Shirt and Flip-Flops

In the sweltering late-August evening heat, a man with an unmistakable aura emerged from a nondescript building in Tokyo. His outfit was relaxed: a loose T-shirt, denim pants, and beach sandals, but beneath a black cap was a piercing gaze that seemed to draw people in—Koshi Inaba (59), the vocalist of B’z.

The last time our magazine spotted Inaba was in 2021. He was walking his beloved dogs with his wife. Inaba, walking through a prime Tokyo location with four huge, fluffy dogs, was overwhelming in his presence.

This summer, the music world’s charismatic figure is making headlines for an unexpected reason.

“In the July 17 issue of anan, Inaba made his first appearance in the magazine in 20 years under the theme of “Adult Man,” gracing the cover. The magazine quickly sold out, and just two days after its release, a reprint was decided due to its huge response. Not only that, but he also appeared on the cover and in the lead feature of the August 23 issue of the men’s monthly magazine GOETHE. Remarkably, a reprint was decided before its release. The magazine recorded its first three printings in its 18-year history. The magazine industry is paying close attention to his influence, which even young male idols cannot rival,” according to a female magazine editor.

Last year, B’z celebrated its 35th anniversary. This year, Inaba and guitarist Takahiro Matsumoto (63) have been energetically pursuing solo activities. Inaba released his sixth solo album, Tadomono, on June 26, and has just completed a live tour of 17 performances in 10 cities from June 22 to August 18.

“At the ‘triumphant return’ concert held in Inaba’s hometown of Tsuyama City (Okayama Prefecture) on August 13 and 14, local volunteers guided attendees and set up food stalls around the venue, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the town. The venue, which holds only 1,000 people, saw 16,000 fans over the two days. Of course, those without tickets could not enter. However, for the fans who showed up, some doors were opened during the encore of the August 14 performance, allowing those outside to hear Inaba’s singing. Inaba, too, was very generous with his service, shouting ‘Can you hear me?’ to the fans outside,” said a music magazine editor.

Regarding the title Tadomono, Inaba humbly mentioned in an interview with anan, “There are many people who are much more amazing, whether it’s in singing or in ideas for production.” However, considering his deep feelings for his hometown and his thoughtfulness towards his fans, it’s clear at a glance.

Koshi Inaba is indeed not just an ordinary person!