Kenshi Yonezu’s Powerful Songs Leave Tora ni Tsubasa Viewers Spellbound

On September 27, the NHK morning drama Tora ni Tsubasa (Tiger and Wings) aired its final episode. Even after the broadcast ended, viewers have continued to engage in lively discussions about the show, and as the days go by, the voices expressing “Tora Tsuba loss” are increasing.

Why is Tora ni Tsubasa (Tiger and Wings) so beloved by viewers?

 It is too late to say this, but this drama depicts the life of Yoshiko Mibuchi, Japan’s first female lawyer, who later served as a judge.

However, it is not just a story of a woman’s rise to the top of the closed legal profession. The atomic bomb trial, the unconstitutional ruling against the killing of a nobleman, and other themes that have not been touched upon in previous morning dramas. It also sheds light on today’s themes such as sexual minorities and married couples’ surnames.

The drama that connects thoughts for 100 years to come.

The story’s development, which lacked any sacred boundaries, also drew attention. Furthermore, the theme song “Sayōnara Mata Itsuka!” by popular artist Kenshi Yonezu played a significant role in increasing “Tora Tsuba” fans.

“Yonezu mentioned the theme song, ‘As I read through the script, I felt my spine straighten. I couldn’t face it with a half-hearted attitude. I wrote it while recalling the unreasonable feelings and anger I have experienced, putting myself in Torako’s shoes.’ The resulting pop and danceable theme song became a supportive anthem for the heroine Torako, who navigates the beastly path of the legal world. I was captivated by the high level of synchronization between the lyrics and the story,” said a producer from the production company.

To Torako, who stumbles and gets hurt in the beastly path of the legal world, Yonezu sends a message to entrust dreams that cannot be realized in this life to the future—encouraging the disheartened Torako. However, 100 years later, we must ask whether the dripping water through the stone sentiment of Torako and her peers could truly change the world.

Unfortunately, it cannot be said for certain. The song also served as a call to action for our generation, who inherit the aspirations of Torako and her companions.

And there’s another song. “Tora Tsuba” features a hidden gem that is just as remarkable as the theme song.

This is “You are so amazing,” written and composed by Yuta Mori, who provided the music for this production, and sung by Stuart Murdoch.