Melody of Twilight--Makoto Kubota, who colored the music of Japan in 1977

Melody of Twilight--Makoto Kubota, who colored the music of Japan in 1977

Makoto Kubota was a musician active in the Japanese music scene in the 1970s, especially known for his work as "Makoto Kubota and the Sunset Band. His music had a unique style that blended blues, folk, and tropical rhythms, and he breathed new life into the Japanese rock scene.

Activities in 1977
At the time, Makoto Kubota and the Sunset Band were performing nationwide and appeared at an event called "Rockin' Kong Tokyo Edition. This event was held on March 14, 1977 at Toshima Public Hall, and the performers included "Idol Wild South" and "Last Show". They also performed at Suginami Public Hall on March 18, 1977, along with Sentimental City Romance and Tadashi Kosaka.

Musical Style and Influences
Makoto Kubota's music was influenced by the blues and country of the American South, but developed in its own way to fit the Japanese music scene. In particular, the sound of the Yuyake Gakudan, with its relaxed rhythms and warmth, was a major influence on later Japanese roots music. His music also resonated with city pop, Japanese reggae, and Latin music, and was popular with a wide range of listeners.

The Music Scene in the Late 1970s
During this period, the Japanese music industry was undergoing major changes. Along with the popularity of folk songs and new music, the number of artists incorporating elements of rock, funk, and jazz was increasing, and the music was diversifying. Makoto Kubota was a member of this trend, and was supported not only by music fans in urban areas but also by young people in rural areas, where he was energetically active in live performances.

Makoto Kubota and the Sunset Sunset Band occupied a unique position in the music scene of the time and played an important role in the history of Japanese rock music.