About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of J-pop melodies with heartfelt lyrics and catchy hooks that resonate deeply with everyday life."

Where they were

By 2014, Masaharu Fukuyama was already an established figure in J-pop, known for his multifaceted career as a singer-songwriter and actor. 'Human' marked his eleventh studio album, further solidifying his legacy after the commercial success of his previous album 'HUMAN' in 2012, which had set high expectations for this release.

Why it matters

'Human' debuted at number one on the Oricon Albums Chart, showcasing Fukuyama's sustained popularity in Japan. The album received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical variety, reflecting contemporary issues while maintaining Fukuyama's signature style, thereby influencing the direction of J-pop in the mid-2010s.

Essential tracks

  • "HUMAN" — The title track encapsulates the album's central theme of human emotions and connections, featuring an uplifting melody that resonates with listeners.
  • "家族になろうよ" — This poignant song about familial bonds showcases Fukuyama's ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with catchy pop hooks, making it a fan favorite.
  • "Cherry" — 'Cherry' stands out for its playful yet introspective lyrics paired with an infectious rhythm, illustrating Fukuyama's knack for combining fun with depth.
  • "Beautiful life" — With its optimistic message and sweeping arrangement, 'Beautiful life' represents Fukuyama's signature style of uplifting pop that encourages listeners to embrace positivity.

Release Date

April 2, 2014

Artist Origin

Japan

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 クスノキ 3:55
  2. 2 Prelude 0:51
  3. 3 HUMAN 4:52
  4. 4 とりビー! 5:06
  5. 5 ミスキャスト 3:43
  6. 6 246 4:23
  7. 7 Cherry 4:17
  8. 8 4:39
  9. 9 昭和やったね 4:40

Disc 2

  1. 1 家族になろうよ 5:08
  2. 2 fighting pose 4:07
  3. 3 生きてる生きてく 3:30
  4. 4 Around the world 5:00
  5. 5 Beautiful life 5:35
  6. 6 GAME 4:39
  7. 7 誕生日には真白な百合を 4:40
  8. 8 Get the groove 3:54
  9. 9 恋の魔力 4:39