Naoki Sanada’s Double A-Side New Single “Before the Sun Sets… / Plumeria Rhapsody” Drops Today! A Must-Read Fan Buying Guide | Full Review
Sorry to keep you waiting. Today, April 8th. The day is finally here. Naoki Sanada’s long-awaited double A-side single, “Before the Sun Sets… / Plumeria Rhapsody,” is now hitting CD shops and streaming sites nationwide. Fans have probably already pre-ordered, but if you haven’t yet, it’s not too late after reading this. We’re about to lay down a solid Naoki Sanada review, so stick with us to the end.
“Before the Sun Sets…” and “Plumeria Rhapsody”: A Man with Two Sides, Going All Out
The biggest draw here is that both tracks are full-on lead material. Forget the old A-side/B-side mindset—it doesn’t apply. Straight from the record label, the quality is top-notch.
- “Before the Sun Sets…” – A mid-tempo ballad that feels classic yet somehow fresh. The bittersweetness of dusk blends perfectly with the strength to move forward. The first time I heard it, I knew: “Oh, this one’s a hit.”
- “Plumeria Rhapsody” – This one’s a little different. With a tropical, almost exotic arrangement, it’s a track that shows off the depth of Naoki Sanada beyond the usual enka mold.
- Purchase Bonuses & Event Participation Tips – Check out the different postcards and photos available at each CD shop. And try your luck with the “Sanada Lottery” for a shot at signed goods!
Will the guitar melodies get to you, or will the rhythm make you move? If you really need a Naoki Sanada guide, start by comparing these two songs over and over. The gap between his looks and that voice will knock you out every single time.
Release Commemoration Events & YouTube Live Stream: No Reason to Miss Out
Just buying the CD and calling it a day is boring—that’s not how it works these days. Naoki Sanada has already been rolling out some hot events since yesterday, April 7th. First on your checklist: the YouTube live stream from yesterday. If you missed it, don’t worry—the archive should still be up, so head to his channel now. And today, the 8th, a music video premiere is also on deck.
If you want the real-life experience, don’t sleep on the “Sanada Lottery” challenge. It’s happening now at Naoki Sanada supporter stores nationwide. If luck’s on your side, you might snag rare merch or an autograph. Fans near Tokyo, be sure to check each store’s schedule.
Ever since he scored #1 on the Oricon Enka/Kayokyoku ranking with “Ebisu” back in 2020, this guy hasn’t slowed down. This year marks exactly 10 years since his debut. From a rookie who debuted in 2016 with “Reiko,” to now hosting a regular segment on USEN’s “Shigoe Yokocho” and racking up over 100,000 YouTube subscribers. This man from Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, is never going to be just another enka singer.
If I had to sum up how to use Naoki Sanada in one sentence, here it is: Pop the CD into your player and turn up the volume. Then, surrender yourself to that “Knockout Voice.” Forged by screaming at the beach, eating chili peppers, and wrecking his throat with sake, it’s a voice you won’t forget after hearing it once. Experience its true power with the new single out today.