"Kiyoshiro Imawano" by Yasuhiro Takahashi

ISBN:978-4-910511-65-8

"Boss, playing rock music must be tough," I replied, to which he said, "You know, there is no such thing as rock in this country," and walked away. I remember that moment clearly. He looked so cool. (From the text)

In these times, when a never-ending stream of people point out that we are in a very dangerous state, one phrase is heard over and over: "If only Kiyoshiro were here now." This book tells the story of "Mr. Kiyoshiro" as seen by the famous publicist who worked in makeup and costumes just like Kiyoshiro, during the turbulent period following the 1988 release of "COVERS," through "The Worry of Cobra," The Timers, and the breakup of RC Succession. The end of the book also includes a discussion between the author and ele-king editor-in-chief Tsutomu Noda on "the legacy of RC Succession and The Timers." Mixing in little-known anecdotes, we rethink what "Mr. Kiyoshiro" accomplished, now, once again.

There was once a musician in the rock scene of this country who took on authority and brought joy to so many children (and adults, too). Read Yasuhiro Takahashi’s "Kiyoshiro Imawano" with your head—and your heart.

[Author] Yasuhiro Takahashi After joining a record company in the late 80s, he was thrown into the maelstrom of the cancelled release of RC Succession’s controversial album "COVERS," and the following year, he experienced the uproar of the FM Tokyo incident as the person in charge when The Timers hijacked the media. He also became a promotional tower himself, wearing flashy makeup and costumes to promote Kiyoshiro Imawano. Together with Kiyoshiro, he suddenly carried out guerrilla live performances on the streets, which became a hot topic. He currently works as a freelancer, supervising Kiyoshiro's CDs, appearing in media and talk events, and writing manuscripts. Among fans, he is known by the name Takahashi ROCK ME BABY, given to him by Kiyoshiro.

Design: Kiyoshi Suzuki
Cover Photo: Naomi Kawakami / Inside Photos: Mikio Ariga

4/6 size / 248 pages