Takuya Kimura, the charismatic star known for his multifaceted career, recently hosted conversations on his radio program, "Kimura Takuya Flow," that are sending ripples of nostalgia and inspiration across his audience. Over the course of four weeks, Kimura welcomed Taka, the vocalist from the popular rock band ONE OK ROCK, to his show. A significant highlight of their discussions was aired on March 16, 2025, during which they exchanged stories that revealed the depths of their friendships and careers.
In a heartfelt dialogue, Kimura reflected on an impactful letter from his friend Koji Inaba of B'z, who wrote to him saying, "Aren't there people waiting?" This simple yet profound question ignited a pivotal moment for Kimura, encouraging him to reassess his decision to step back from music. Kimura reminisced about a time when he believed he would never perform again after his own musical group disbanded. However, inspired by Inaba's words, he recognized that there were fans waiting for his return, prompting him to reignite his music career.
Kicking off their chat, Kimura and Taka delved into their personal routines and lifestyles. Taka asked Kimura about his daily life, prompting Kimura to share, "I try to start my day with some activities, like working out, to set a positive tone for the rest of the day." His mention of balancing a fitness regime, reminiscent of a professional athlete, drew chuckles from Taka, who found it intriguing to see this discipline in action.
Taka's admiration for Kimura only deepened as they discussed Kimura's fashion sense. Taka noted, "You have a penchant for vintage items, don't you?" In response, Kimura clarified, "It's not that I specifically like vintage items, but those were clothes I loved back in the day, and if I still have them, people might call them vintage. I just see them as things I’ve held onto." This exchange highlighted Kimura's nostalgic attachment to the pieces he cherishes.
As Taka explained how Kimura had influenced trends during his early childhood, he recalled, "When I was in school, your style and outfits were all the rage. You were an icon for our generation." Kimura laughed, acknowledging the impact he had without quite realizing it. The two shared a genuine bond over their experiences, with Taka expressing, "From our perspective, Kimura-kun is always that kind of icon." This mutual respect was palpable throughout their interaction.
Moreover, Kimura and Taka explored their shared interests, which fostered their friendship. Both have a fondness for the ocean and motorbikes, with Kimura enthusiastically sharing stories about their common hobbies. This made their dialogue not only a discussion about their careers but also a stroll down memory lane for both artists, something that resonated with listeners.
Beyond personal stories, fans were treated to insights into Kimura's views on what it takes to be a star. He elaborated, "For me, being a star isn’t just about fame; it’s also the connections you make and the way you inspire others through your passion." This perspective was not just a reflection of his experiences but served as a guiding principle for emerging artists like Taka.
As the episode wrapped up, the chemistry between Kimura and Taka was undeniable. They maintained a playful banter, with Taka continuously expressing his desire to learn more about Kimura's life lessons and experiences. "We have so much more to unpack; I'm really glad to have this opportunity," Taka said enthusiastically.
Listeners were also engaged with the nostalgia factor as Kimura's show aired on TOKYO FM every Sunday from 11:30 AM to 11:55 AM. It became a reminder of how music and friendships shape our lives, capturing moments that resonate with audiences of all ages. Meanwhile, Kimura’s influence continues to loom large in the Japanese entertainment scene, transcending generations.
In this captivating episode, both musicians found not just common ground but a shared purpose—to inspire and connect with those who have been waiting for their return to music, proving that, in the world of entertainment, friendships are as vital as the work one does.